3 Fields Muslim Americans Dominated in Style 

Part of living as a Muslim American means maximizing the gifts Allah has given us. In these challenging times, it’s nice to look at people who inspire us to do our best in any field.   

In celebration of the proclamation of January as Muslim American Heritage Month, we’ve listed some industries where Muslim Americans not only imparted their skills but also made a name for themselves. 

Business and Entrepreneurship 

Muslim Americans have a knack for building and cultivating wealth. It’s not only part of our culture but embedded even in our faith. As a Muslim American-owned small business, we’re in touch with a lot of fellow small businesses in the US and Canada, showing how we’re adapting to finding a niche and building a brand that the community can trust and support. 

Some notable Muslim Americans who made a mark in the field include: 

• Shahid Khan, the owner of Flex-N-Gate and the NFL team Jacksonville Jaguars, 
• Farooq Kathwari, Ethan Allen’s chairman and CEO, 
• Tariq Farid, the visionary behind Edible Arrangements, and 
• Shoeb Shareiff, President/CEO of ijaraCDC and Founder of Ethical Token 

Science and Technology 

Curiosity and discovery have resulted in scientific advancements that we enjoy today. But did you know that some of the brilliant minds behind these innovations are fellow Muslim Americans? 

One of these innovations is the cable modem, a core building block to the development of high-speed internet. When told that cable TV wires can’t transmit data, Rouzbeh Yassini said, “Hold my Jallab,” and built a company that brought his idea to life. 

Another technological marvel from the Muslim-American mind is the vertical tubing design by Falzur Khan. He was called the “Einstein of Structural Engineering.” His creativity was the cornerstone of the creation of Chicago’s Sears Tower, once noted as the world’s tallest building. 

Entertainment and Sports 

Muslim Americans know how to use our talents in amazing ways. We entertain peers or make stadiums cheer. You can expect a brother or sister to always give their best. 

No athlete is more iconic than the Muslim-American heavyweight boxer Muhammad Ali. Formerly known as Cassius Clay, his conversion to Islam in 1964 after winning his first world title brought the faith into the spotlight throughout the nation. 

Muslim Americans also dominated the basketball court, with some of the most influential big men making stadiums roar nightly. These include “The Big Fella” himself, Shaquille O’Neal, the Skyhook master Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon. 

Someone who impacted American pop culture from behind the scenes is Ahmet Ertegun, one of the founders of Atlantic Records. Working from the sidelines, his songwriting and recording skills were instrumental in taking the careers of some well-known musicians to legendary status.   

Take Pride in Being Muslim Americans 

Becoming a Muslim American is more than a preference – it’s a lifestyle showcased in how we live our lives. May these famous Muslim Americans inspire everyone that not only can we do our part but also excel in the process. 

On behalf of your ijaraCDC Family, we proudly celebrate Muslim American Heritage Month!