TAQWA
Faith. Knowledge. Leadership
June 8 – July 30, 2026 | Sacramento, CA
Applications will open April 20, 2026!
2026 Taqwa Internship Program
The Taqwa Summer Internship Program is an 8-week experience for high school students who are ready to grow in leadership, strengthen their skills, and serve their community with purpose.
Through hands-on projects, mentorship, professional development, and spiritual grounding, interns gain experience in nonprofit operations, teamwork, communication, marketing, and leadership — all rooted in Islamic values.
After two successful cohorts in 2024 and 2025, we are excited to open applications for our 2026 cohort and welcome the next group of young leaders, insha’a Allah.
If you are a student looking for a summer that will challenge you, grow you, and connect you more deeply to your faith and community, we invite you to apply.
Program Details
Empowering Youth Through Purpose-Driven Leadership
Applications open: April 20, 2026
Apply by: May 15, 2026
- 📆 Dates: June 8 – July 30, 2026 (8 weeks)
- ⏰ Schedule: Mondays to Thursdays | 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- ✅ Attendance: Week 1 is mandatory
- 💵 Stipend: $500, Awarded upon successful completion
- 📍 Location: SALAM Islamic Center | Sacramento, CA
Reflecting on Our Journey
In 2024, SALAM launched the first-ever Taqwa Summer Internship Program, welcoming students into a summer of service, growth, and discovery. What began as a new initiative quickly became a meaningful space for young Muslims to build confidence, develop professional skills, and deepen their sense of purpose.
In 2025, we built on that foundation with a second cohort, continuing to invest in the next generation through mentorship, hands-on learning, leadership development, and community service.
Across both cohorts, interns contributed to real projects, learned from inspiring guest speakers, strengthened their teamwork and communication skills, and explored how faith can guide excellence in career and service.
Taqwa is a space for young Muslims to grow with intention, build lasting connections, and begin stepping confidently into leadership.
Stories from Our Interns
Interested in Being a Guest Speaker?
In 2024 and 2025, 18 inspiring professionals shared their journeys, wisdom, and skills with our interns, and it made all the difference.
Do you have a message, a mission, or a skill you’d love to pass on to the next generation of Muslim leaders? Whether you specialize in tech, education, nonprofit work, public speaking, entrepreneurship, medicine, law, or any field that shapes the world, we want to hear from you!
Program Highlights
✅ Purpose-Driven Projects
Interns work on real initiatives—from community events to marketing campaigns—building skills while serving others.
✅ Professional Growth
Learn resume writing, public speaking, teamwork, and career exploration in a supportive, mentor-led environment.
✅ Project Management & Leadership
Gain practical experience in planning, collaboration, and execution using tools and techniques from real-world settings.
✅ Nonprofit Operations
Understand how Islamic organizations function—through exposure to bylaws, budgeting, and governance structures.
✅ Islamic Learning
Engage in meaningful sessions that tie leadership and career success to Islamic values like ikhlas, amanah, and ihsan.
✅ Mentorship & Networking
Connect with Muslim professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders who inspire and uplift.
✅ Community Impact
Contribute to programs that uplift others while discovering your own strengths and voice.
Apply for the 2026 Taqwa Internship Program
Empower yourself. Serve your community. Grow with purpose.
Who Should Apply
We’re looking for passionate, motivated youth who are:
- High school students
- Eager to gain real-world skills and professional experience
- Interested in community service, leadership, and Islamic growth
- Ready to commit to the full 8-week program and work with a team
- Open to learning, reflecting, and stepping outside their comfort zone
- No prior experience is needed, just heart, drive, and a willingness to grow.
How to Apply
- Submit your resume and a cover letter explaining why you want to join the program
- Email your application to internship@salamcenter.org
- Application Deadline: May 18, 2026
- Selected applicants will be invited for an interview
Apply Today
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for the Taqwa Internship Program?
The program is open to high school students who are passionate about personal growth, leadership, and serving their community.
Is prior experience required to apply?
Not at all! We welcome students at all experience levels. What matters most is your dedication — we’re looking for individuals who are ready to take things to the next level. If you’re motivated to grow, contribute, and make an impact, this program is for you.
Do interns get paid?
Yes! A $500 stipend is awarded upon successful completion of the full 8-week program.
Is there an Islamic component to the program?
A: Yes, absolutely! You’ll engage in spiritual development sessions, learn from our Shaykhs, and explore how to balance deen and dunya in your career and life.
Is this a religious program or a career program?
Taqwa Internship is designed to develop you professionally while staying rooted in Islamic values. You’ll grow in leadership, career skills, and confidence—all in a supportive, faith-based environment.
What if I need to miss a day?
We understand that summer schedules can be busy. Interns are allowed up to four planned absences during the program with prior notice and approval. However, Week 1 is mandatory and cannot be missed, as it sets the foundation for the entire experience.
Where does the program take place?
All sessions are held onsite at SALAM Islamic Center, 4545 College Oak Dr., Sacramento, CA 95841.
