Teachers Profiles

Sheikh Fathi

Teacher

Mr. Fathi Omer is an Islamic Studies teacher at Al-Mustafa Academy in Waterbury, Connecticut. He is 48 years old and holds a Master’s degree in Medical Sciences.

He is fluent in both Arabic and English, which enables him to effectively communicate with a diverse group of students. With over 14 years of experience in Quran memorization (Hifz), he has developed strong expertise in teaching children how to recite the Quran with proper Tajweed rules.

Mr. Fathi Omer is also skilled in teaching the Arabic language and Islamic Studies, focusing on building a strong foundation in both understanding and practice. He is dedicated to nurturing students’ spiritual growth while making learning engaging and accessible.

His passion for teaching and his commitment to student development make him a valuable member of the academic community.

Selma Dalipi

Teacher

Selma Dalipi is a dedicated educator and community member based in Waterbury, Connecticut. She serves as a Sunday school teacher at the Islamic American Society of Connecticut (IASC), where she teaches Qur’an and Islamic Studies to young students. Selma graduated from an Islamic school in North Macedonia, which laid the foundation for her strong knowledge of Islamic teachings. She is also a proud mother of four children, balancing family life with her passion for education and community service. With six years of teaching experience at IASC, Selma focuses on helping children develop a deep understanding of the Qur’an, Islamic values, and moral character. Her teaching approach emphasizes patience, clarity, and engagement, ensuring that students not only learn but also appreciate and apply Islamic teachings in their daily lives. Through her work, she contributes to strengthening the community by nurturing the next generation with knowledge, discipline, and respect. Selma is passionate about education and strives to make a positive and lasting impact on her students.

Sister Kujtime Imeri

Islamic Studies / Islamic Discussion teacher

A mother of two, spouse of Bashkim Imeri, and the daughter of Imam Refet Dalipi. Alhamdulil’lah, I started off as a student in this community back in 1996, moved forward as a volunteer, a teacher’s assistant, and finally, in 2003, while attending SCSU, I began teaching Islamic Studies at Sunday School/Al-Mustafa Academy. The intention has been to gain knowledge and convey the message of Rasul’ Allah ‎ﷺ, and may it remain as such. Ameen!

Zeinab Ahmed

Quran and Arabic Teacher

My name is Zeinab Ahmed. I have a Bachelor of Science and Education in Mathematics. I work as a Quran and Arabic teacher.

I love the Quran very much, and I hope to memorize all of it one day. I also love the Arabic language, mathematics, and computers.

I am a mother of two children, and I enjoy helping them learn and memorize the Quran so they can become Hafiz one day.

I always try to grow, learn, and support my family with love and patience.

Rakia Abubakar

Social Studies Teacher

My name is Rakia Abubakar. I am a middle school social studies teacher with a master’s degree in social studies, and pursuing the Master of Philosophy. I am also a proud mother of six children. Beyond my teaching, I serve as a teacher at Al-Mustafa Academy. I am a wife and a passionate educator, deeply committed to family, community service, and making a positive impact in the lives of others.

In my personal life, I have a deep love for reading the Qur’an and strive to engage with it daily. I also enjoy activities that strengthen my faith, such as reflecting on Islamic teachings, participating in community learning, and supporting others in their spiritual growth.

Sr. Bibi

Teacher

My name is Sr. Bibi. I have a degree from the University of Connecticut. I have been teaching for 32 years and have volunteered for more than a decade at Al-Mustafa Academy. I have taught Islamic Studies from Kindergarten up to the upper levels. I thank Allah for this opportunity to be a part of this Academy and for allowing me to help provide Islamic education to children, to instil a love for their Deen, build character, and develop a strong Muslim identity.

Sister Haneen

Teacher

I serve as a Kindergarten Teacher and Teacher Assistant at the masjid, where I bring a nurturing presence and a strong understanding of child development to my work with young learners. Through my experience as an ABA therapist and my involvement in community outreach and mentorship for middle school girls, I have developed strong insight into children’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental needs. I am passionate about creating environments where children feel safe, understood, and encouraged to grow with confidence.

I am deeply committed to uplifting Muslim children from diverse learning and developmental backgrounds, ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. I value student well-being, positive character development, and fostering a strong sense of identity rooted in faith, kindness, and purpose.

Narjess Bennour

Arabic Teacher

I am a dedicated middle school Arabic teacher with a strong passion for language education. I hold a master’s degree in education, which has equipped me with effective teaching strategies and a deep understanding of student learning. I am certified in both Arabic and French world languages, allowing me to support diverse learners and promote multilingual skills. I strive to create an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where students feel motivated to succeed. My goal is to inspire a love for languages and help students build confidence in their communication abilities.

Sheikh Ibrahim Salman

The Imam of Masjid Al-Mustafa

Sheikh Ibrahim holds a Bachelor’s degree in Usul Al Din from the esteemed University of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif. With gratitude to the Almighty, he completed the memorization of the entire Quran at the age of 13, acquiring an Igaza in Hefz Ain Assem. For the past 13 years, he has dedicated himself to teaching Quran and Arabic, catering to both children and adults, irrespective of their linguistic backgrounds. His experience extends to teaching online, reaching students from various corners of the globe, including America, Canada, the UK, Australia, Pakistan, India, and beyond. Having instructed over 200 non-Arabic speakers, many starting from the basics, he is committed to providing a tailored, effective learning experience. Sheikh Ibrahim is honored to guide your children in mastering the Quran and Arabic language, employing proven techniques honed over years of dedicated teaching.