It has been 4 months since the first airstrike hit Gaza, and the world was changed forever.

Nearly 23,000 lives have been lost, not including those still stuck underneath all the rubble. Each day, innocent lives are claimed at a rate of almost 250.

Gaza’s landscape is now marked by displacement, with 1.9 million people — 85% of its people — uprooted from their homes, leaving behind their lives and everything they once knew. About 1.4 million of them have found temporary relief in UNRWA shelters, while others are staying with friends, family, or strangers — and some are facing the harshness of homelessness.

MAUSA has been on the ground working with local partners in Gaza long before October 7th. We are working around the clock to deliver emergency aid including food, clean water, clothing and other basic necessities.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

**Shaykh Yaser Birjas: Keynote Speaker**

Globally renowned Shaykh Yaser Birjas, a distinguished graduate of the Islamic University of Madinah’s College of Shari’ah, is deeply respected for his compassionate leadership. His experience in rebuilding post-genocide Bosnia resonates profoundly with the current plight of Gaza, the focus of our charity gala. As Imam at the Valley Ranch Islamic Center and Head of Islamic Law and Theory, Shaykh Yaser’s insights and dedication are a beacon of hope and solidarity, echoing our theme, “We Stand with Palestine.”

**Megan B Rice: Social Media Influencer & Activist**

Megan B Rice, an American TikToker and activist, has garnered significant attention for her conversion to Islam, inspired by the resilience of the people in Gaza. Megan’s journey began with a profound admiration for the faith and strength of the Palestinians, leading her to explore the Quran. An avid defender of Palestinian rights, Megan has become a prominent voice against the genocide in Gaza.

**Amal Kassir: Story-Telling Activist & Spoken-Word Poet**

Renowned for her powerful spoken-word poetry, Amal Kassir bridges her German-Iowan and Syrian heritage to voice the narratives of the marginalized. Her personal loss in Syria’s conflict ignited a passionate advocacy for social justice. Amal’s work, characterized by hope and resilience, aligns perfectly with the theme of our gala, “We Stand with Palestine.”

Please join us for a charity gala on February 11th at 6 PM. Information is below:

Embassy Suites USF

3705 Spectrum Blvd

Tampa, FL 33612

Tickets include a 3 course Zabihah meal.