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October Theme
Child Wellness Visit
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIR
Doris “Amirah” Opara
Amirah Opara, originally from Nigeria - a vibrant nation in West Africa - was raised in Massachusetts. She earned her undergraduate degree from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, and furthered her education with a master’s degree from the School of International Service, along with an MBA from the Kogod School of Business at American University.
As the Board Chair of the Aafiyah Project, Amirah oversees the board with over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in compliance. Known for her versatility, results-oriented mindset, and problem-solving abilities, she ensures the smooth operation of the board.
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Inspired by her personal journey, Amirah has a profound passion for improving the economic and social well-being of marginalized communities. This dedication led her to earn a master’s degree in international Economic Policy and an MBA in Finance and Accounting. She brings this deep passion to her work with the Aafiyah Project. In her free time, Amirah enjoys hiking and spending quality time with her family.
VICE CHAIR
Dr. Tariqah Nuriddin
Dr. Tariqah Nuriddin is a sociologist, author, educator, and survey statistician. She received her PhD and Master of Science degrees in Sociology from Purdue University and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Hampton University. She currently works as a Survey Statistician and on her days off enjoys leisurely activities such as reading, visiting museums, traveling to different countries and spending quality time with family and friends.
SECRETARY
Dr. Rashida McCain-Hall
Dr. Rashida McCain-Hall is a dedicated family medicine practitioner with nearly 20 years of experience, specializing in women’s health while also serving patients of all ages. She earned her undergraduate degree from Morgan State University and completed her medical degree at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in 2001, followed by a family medicine residency in Philadelphia in 2005.
As Secretary of The Aafiyah Project’s Board of Directors, Dr. McCain-Hall is an active contributor, assisting wherever needed to advance the organization’s mission of addressing social and health disparities in minority communities. Her involvement was inspired by a desire to work hands-on in her community and to leverage her skills to create meaningful change.
Dr. McCain-Hall is passionate about reducing disparities locally and internationally, with her experiences in Ghana and Tanzania deepening her commitment to health equity. Outside of her professional and volunteer work, she enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with her husband and four children.
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
Amina Musa
Amina Musa is a Clinical Research Coordinator with expertise in biological sciences, clinical research, and community engagement. She earned her degree in Biological Sciences with a minor in Social Welfare from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where she received multiple accolades, including the Undergraduate Research Award for her work on healthcare accessibility for immigrant communities.
Currently managing 14 clinical trials at Endocrine and Metabolic Consultants, Amina specializes in diabetes and metabolic disorder research. Her certifications in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), IATA, and CITI ensure her adherence to ethical and clinical standards, while her experience as a Certified Medical Assistant enhances her ability to address patient needs with empathy and precision.
Amina’s commitment to social impact is reflected in her leadership of the Brighten A Day initiative in Baltimore, her volunteer work at the Muslim Community Center Medical Clinic, and her contributions as an intern with The Aafiyah Project, where she co-led a financial literacy club for youth and supported the wellness retreats. Her leadership roles in Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity and the UMBC Pakistani Student Association further highlight her dedication to fostering inclusive, health-focused programs.
TREASURER
Camilla Obasiolu
Camilla is an experienced Public Health professional with a background in Health Policy/Law and Healthcare Delivery. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Maryland, College Park, and has built a career focused on health equity, public health advocacy, and service. Currently, she works as a Health Policy Analyst/Consultant examining health insurance product submissions for compliance with federal and state health provisions/regulations like the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the No Surprises Act (NSA). Through her work, she helps patients and consumers make informed health decisions while improving access to affordable, quality healthcare. To improve health outcomes, I develop systems-level recommendations to address macro-level health issues and inform public health initiatives, programs, and policies.
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Camilla is the founder and lead florist of Floralry, a full-service floral design company that blends artistry with the world of flowers. Known for her attention to detail and design expertise, she brings events to life with her intentional floral designs and timeless style, creating immersive and captivating floral experiences.
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A proud DMV native, Camilla enjoys wellness-focused activities, travel, and finding inspiration in nature. She enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones, cooking new recipes, trying new restaurants, and hosting dinner parties. Camilla is committed to lifelong learning and passionate about inspiring others to embrace healthier, more fulfilling lives.
AT-LARGE
BOARD MEMBER
Shareema Houston
Shareema Houston serves as an At-Large Board Member of The Aafiyah Project, bringing over 20 years of experience as a civil and environmental engineer to her role. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering. Currently based in Texas, she is pursuing certification to teach mathematics at the middle and high school levels.
Driven by a passion for education and the well-being of the Muslim community, Shareema joined The Aafiyah Project to address critical issues surrounding mental and physical health. Inspired by her personal connection with the organization’s founder, she contributes her expertise to fostering safe spaces for open dialogue and support.
Shareema’s vision for The Aafiyah Project includes expanding its impact nationwide and globally, ensuring that communities everywhere can benefit from the organization’s efforts to promote health and wellness.
AT-LARGE
BOARD MEMBER
Jamila Irving
Jamila Irving is an accomplished Radiologic Technician with over 20 years of experience, currently serving at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. Born, raised, and educated in Washington, D.C., she graduated from Eastern High School and earned an Applied Associate Degree from The University of the District of Columbia’s Medical Radiology Program.
Certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and licensed in both Maryland and Virginia, Jamila is dedicated to delivering excellence in her field. Beyond her professional endeavors, she has a passion for travel, interior design, and roller skating, bringing creativity and enthusiasm to all aspects of her life.
AT-LARGE
BOARD MEMBER
Roukiatou (Rouki) Kirakoya
Roukiatou (Rouki) Kirakoya is a passionate advocate for childhood health, nutrition, and health equity, with over eight years of experience supporting underserved communities. Her journey began with personal challenges in addressing her special-needs child’s severe food allergies and picky eating behavior, inspiring her to empower families through education and resources.
Rouki served as Chairperson of the Parent Policy Council at the United Planning Organization, where she represented parents and advocated for improvements in early childhood education. Rouki also worked as a Parent Leader with the DC Children’s Trust Fund, educating families on child abuse prevention and domestic violence.
Since 2019, Rouki has been a Child Nutrition Services Specialist at Educare DC, delivering health and nutrition education to families. In 2023, her diagnosis of type 2 diabetes shifted her perspective on wellness, leading her to adopt a holistic approach that emphasizes physical, mental, and emotional health. Currently pursuing a health and wellness certification program, she is committed to inspiring others to prioritize their overall well-being. Rouki is excited to bring her expertise and passion for health equity to The Aafiyah Project’s Board of Directors, supporting its mission to build a legacy of health and wellness within the Black Muslim community.