CHICAGO — Sound Vision, a pioneering North American Islamic multimedia and educational organization, has officially ushered in a new era of leadership. Taha Ghayyur has taken over the role of president, stepping into the position as part of a carefully orchestrated succession plan. Imam Abdul Malik Mujahid, who founded and shaped the organization over decades, will transition to his new role as the Chairperson of the Sound Vision Board of Directors, ensuring that the organization continues to benefit from his extensive experience, guidance, and vision.
The leadership transition marks a significant milestone for Sound Vision, an institution with production studios and offices spanning both the United States and Canada, and boasting a profound global reach. For Ghayyur, assuming the presidency is not merely a career progression or a symbolic title, but a deeply personal continuation of a lifelong journey inspired by the organization’s mission.
Reflecting on his early days with the organization, Ghayyur shared memories from roughly three decades ago when he attended his first-ever Islamic youth camp held at a large local mosque. Describing it as an unconventional sleepover, it was during this gathering that he first encountered Imam Abdul Malik Mujahid live in person. As a teenager, Ghayyur was immediately captivated by the clarity of the Imam’s vision and the palpable passion behind his mission. He recalls vividly a lecture delivered during that camp centered on the Quranic mandate of being "Shuhada alannas"—serving as witnesses unto humanity—a foundational responsibility that would shape Ghayyur’s trajectory for years to come.
Throughout the 1990s, Ghayyur witnessed firsthand how Sound Vision put this mission of witness and service into active practice. True to its guiding motto of "helping tomorrow’s Muslims today," the organization established itself as a true pioneer in utilizing multimedia tools to educate, equip, and empower successive generations of American and Canadian Muslims. Millions grew up engaging with Sound Vision’s iconic creative output, from the beloved children’s series Adam’s World to the inspiring Islamic songs and spiritual hymns of Dawud Wharnsby. Furthermore, the organization provided cutting-edge content focused on practical Islamic living that became essential resources utilized globally by imams, khateebs, educators, Muslim Student Association (MSA) leaders, and parents alike.
The profound impact of these early experiences forged a lasting connection. Before even stepping foot on a university campus to pursue higher education and formal Islamic studies, Ghayyur knew he wanted to work for Sound Vision and actively contribute to its compelling mission of creative outreach and education. Over the subsequent two decades, Alhamdulillah (praise be to God), that aspiration became reality. Ghayyur had the unique privilege of working closely with Imam Mujahid, traveling extensively by his side, and shadowing his leadership for over twenty years.
Over time, Imam Mujahid demonstrated deep trust in Ghayyur’s capabilities, entrusting him with multiple leadership responsibilities across various initiatives. Ghayyur’s extensive organizational track record includes serving as the Chairperson of MuslimFest, the Development Manager of Sound Vision, the Executive Director of Justice For Canada, and, most recently, the Senior Vice President of Sound Vision.
Last week, following through on a strategic succession plan formulated by the leadership and the Sound Vision board, Ghayyur was officially appointed as the new president of the iconic organization. He steps into the role with the full backing of experienced internal leadership, including Brother Khaled Alsadi, who serves as the Vice President in the Chicago office and has dedicated more than 14 years of service to the organization.
While Ghayyur recognizes the magnitude of his new position, viewing it as a lofty responsibility that he does not take lightly, he draws comfort and strength from the continued presence of the organization’s founder. As Imam Mujahid transitions into his new capacity as the Chair of the Sound Vision board, the leadership team will continue to rely heavily on his expert advice. Ghayyur emphasizes that the incoming administration will stand firmly on the generous and broad shoulders of Imam Mujahid to build the next vital chapter of Sound Vision, In sha Allah (God willing).
As the organization looks toward the horizon, Ghayyur and the Sound Vision leadership team are actively envisioning and planning for the year 2027 and beyond. To ensure that the organization remains deeply connected to its community, Ghayyur plans to spend the coming days and weeks reaching out to stakeholders, supporters, and community members across North America to listen, gather feedback, and collaborate on future directions.
This forward-looking approach comes at a critical juncture for North American Muslims. While Sound Vision has celebrated unique and historic milestones over the years through signature projects such as Adam’s World and Muslim Network TV, the leadership is acutely aware that significant challenges remain on the road ahead. The contemporary landscape for Muslims in the United States and Canada presents complex and overlapping difficulties, ranging from skyrocketing incidents of domestic Islamophobia and global humanitarian crises to economic shifts, trade wars, the unpredictable and rapidly evolving impact of artificial intelligence, and deep-seated societal struggles surrounding family integrity and disintegration. Additionally, the rising tide of secularism and the onslaught of atheism present unique philosophical challenges to young Muslims.
Given the gravity and scale of these contemporary issues, Ghayyur stresses that Sound Vision cannot afford to operate under a "business as usual" mindset. Instead, the organization recognizes an urgent need for collective, bold, innovative, and long-term thinking and tactical execution. The ultimate goal remains focused on fostering success and positive impact both in this worldly life and the hereafter, Insha Allah.
As Sound Vision embarks on this fresh chapter under new presidential leadership, the organization continues to honor the tireless efforts of its founder. Prayers are offered asking God to continue blessing Imam Mujahid with his ever-flowing energy to serve humanity, while empowering the current team to build upon his formidable legacy and elevate the organization to unprecedented new heights, Ameen.
As he officially assumes office, Taha Ghayyur remains grounded and firmly in need of the continuous prayers, community support, and wise counsel of the broader public as Sound Vision charts its course for the future.
Embarking on an adoption journey begins with a series of foundational decisions that will shape the entire experience for prospective parents, the child, and the broader family network. While some families choose to navigate this intricate landscape through the guidance of specialized attorneys or independent adoption consultants, the vast majority of prospective adoptive parents work directly through a licensed, child-placing agency. Selecting the right agency is arguably the most critical early milestone in the process, serving as the operational and emotional bridge between a family’s aspirations and the realization of bringing a child home.
To help prospective parents navigate this complex selection process, adoption advocates and family support organizations have outlined several key benchmarks. These considerations range from legal credentials and financial transparency to educational resources and ongoing post-adoption support systems, ensuring that families are thoroughly prepared for every phase of the journey.
Look for Hague Accreditation
Among the first and most critical criteria for prospective parents is verifying whether an agency holds Hague Accreditation. This formal accreditation serves as an essential benchmark, guaranteeing that the agency meets rigorous international and federal standards as established by the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. While the Hague Convention primarily governs international placements, looking for organizations that adhere to these elevated operational standards often provides an additional layer of reliability, ethical oversight, and accountability for families.
For those beginning their search, navigating the sheer volume of available organizations can be overwhelming. Experts recommend starting the exploration process by utilizing established directories that allow users to filter for accredited entities. Trusted resources such as the National Council for Adoption directory and the Christian Alliance for Orphans member directory offer comprehensive databases designed to help families identify licensed, reputable child-placing agencies that align with their specific criteria and values.
Choose an Agency That Is Transparent About the Process
Every adoption journey is inherently unique, shaped by the specific type of adoption, the country or state involved, and the individual circumstances of the child and birth family. However, a hallmark of a reputable and trustworthy agency is its ability to clearly explain each step of the process before prospective parents ever formally commit or sign a contract. Uncertainty can breed anxiety during an already emotional time, making upfront clarity a vital component of a healthy agency-client relationship.
Understanding the typical trajectory of a placement—from the initial application and rigorous home study phase to the waiting period, matching process, and finalization—allows families to mentally and emotionally prepare for what lies ahead. Comprehensive timelines, such as those provided by organizations like Christian Adoption Services, illustrate the step-by-step nature of domestic and international adoption journeys, helping parents visualize the road map from start to finish and demystifying the procedural milestones along the way.
Get a Clear Breakdown of Costs Upfront
Financial planning is an undeniable reality of the adoption process, and prospective parents must approach agency selection with a clear understanding of the economic commitments involved. A professional, ethical agency should be fully transparent regarding its fee structure, providing a complete and itemized list of costs upfront. This transparency should encompass all financial obligations, including home study fees, administrative costs, dossier preparation, in-country or domestic travel expenses, and final placement fees.
Having a comprehensive financial picture from the very beginning empowers families to plan accordingly, explore fundraising avenues, and secure necessary financial resources without facing unexpected or hidden expenses mid-journey. Financial predictability helps mitigate stress, allowing parents to focus their energy on the emotional and relational preparations required for welcoming a child into their home.
Prioritize Education Resources
Adoption is a lifelong journey of learning, growth, and adaptation. Consequently, education is a vital aspect of the adoption process, particularly during the critical pre-placement phase before a child arrives. Prospective parents must look for agencies that view education not merely as a box to check, but as an ongoing commitment to family well-being.
An agency that robustly invests in comprehensive education opportunities—spanning both pre- and post-adoption phases—serves as an invaluable resource for the entire family. These educational offerings often cover critical topics such as trauma-informed parenting, attachment, transracial adoption, and navigating open adoption dynamics. Specialized learning experiences, such as those offered through online platforms by Lifeline Children’s Services, exemplify the type of thorough educational support that equips families to handle complex challenges and fosters long-term family flourishing.
Look for Thorough Agency Support
The responsibilities of a quality adoption agency extend far beyond matching a child with a family. Strong, comprehensive agency support systems are essential for safeguarding the well-being of every party involved in the adoption triad: the adoptive parents, the child, and the child’s birth parents. Navigating the emotional complexities of adoption requires compassionate, professional guidance at every turn.
Prospective parents should inquire about the level of ongoing support an agency provides after the placement has occurred and even after the adoption has been legally finalized. Specialized programs and resources, such as Nightlight Christian Adoptions’ Post Adoption Connection Center, illustrate the type of continued support networks that help families and birth parents navigate the lifelong nuances of the adoption journey, ensuring that help is available long after the initial paperwork is signed.
Adoption Agency and Show Hope Eligibility
For many families pursuing adoption, financial assistance organizations play a vital role in bridging the gap between estimated costs and available resources. Organizations such as Show Hope offer Adoption Aid grants designed to ease the financial burdens associated with the adoption process. However, securing such grants requires careful adherence to specific eligibility guidelines tied directly to the chosen agency.
To be eligible to apply for a Show Hope Adoption Aid grant, prospective parents must be working with a licensed, child-placing agency that operates as a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Additionally, families must be mindful of timing and agency arrangements. For instance, individuals who find themselves on the waiting list with multiple agencies simultaneously, or those working in tandem with an independent adoption consultant, must refrain from submitting a grant application until they have been officially matched with a child through a licensed placing agency.
Choosing an adoption agency is widely recognized as one of the most significant initial steps on the adoption journey. Organizations like Show Hope remain committed to walking alongside prospective parents through every phase of the process, providing guidance, resources, and support. Families seeking further information regarding grant opportunities and organizational support can find comprehensive details by visiting the official Show Hope platform.
