MIST 2025: Triumphs and Farewells in the Muslim Interscholastic Competition
**Muslim Interscholastic Tournament (MIST) 2025: Uniting, Challenging, and Empowering Muslim Youth**
The Muslim Interscholastic Tournament (MIST) is an annual event that brings together high school students from diverse backgrounds, fostering personal growth, unity, and self-discipline within the Muslim community. This year, MIST New York took place at Hofstra University from April 5th to 6th, 2025, with the award ceremony on April 12th at Uncommon Schools Charter High School.
The two-day competition, attended by over fifteen Muslim Student Associations (MSAs) from across New York City, offers a range of categories including debate, quiz bowl, Quran recitation, spoken word, and more. The tournament serves as a platform for intellectual challenge, inter-personal unity, and disciplined growth, helping students develop critical thinking, public speaking, and leadership skills.
The Bronx Science Brigade, the school's MIST team, shone brightly this year, placing first in Sister's Improv and having several smaller groups make it to the podium in various tournaments. The team, coached by the highly respected Daiyan Tajwar, has made it to the top three overall teams twice in the past three years and has attended MIST nationals every year.
One of the most anticipated events during MIST is Chant Wars, where teams showcase their chants and bond with fellow competitors. Participating in MIST has not only brought many people closer to each other but also to their faith. Many consider the post-MIST outing their favourite part, as it provides an opportunity for team bonding and celebrations.
The award ceremony is a significant part of MIST, characterised by chanting, cheering, and tears of happiness and joy. This year, the ceremony gave a special speech and standing ovation to the seniors, acknowledging their contributions to MIST and encouraging them to become organisers or volunteers in the future. Many seniors from the MSA teams will graduate this year, marking the end of their journey competing in MIST.
Sabia Ahmed '26, the next MSA vice president, plans to volunteer in competitions such as Science Fair and Quiz Bowl in the future. Ahmed expressed her excitement about continuing the legacy of MIST and inspiring younger students to participate.
MIST not only gives students a place to grow but also gives coaches like Daiyan Tajwar a chance to mature. Tajwar expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to guide and mentor students, stating that MIST has been a transformative experience for both himself and the participants.
In conclusion, MIST serves as more than just a competition; it is a community-building event that positively impacts the educational and personal development of Muslim youth. As the tournament continues to grow, it will undoubtedly continue to inspire, challenge, and unite Muslim students across the country.
- The Muslim Interscholastic Tournament (MIST) also features a photography competition, where students can showcase their skills, capturing moments that encapsulate the spirit of the tournament.
- In addition to intellectual challenges, MIST promotes education and self-development through its various workshops and seminars on subjects such as technology, business, and video production, equipping students with essential skills for the future.
- The sports segment of MIST includes a football tournament, fostering sportsmanship, teamwork, and camaraderie among participants, while adding an exciting and competitive element to the event.
