Community News

AAYSP Holds 16th Annual Scholarship Gala: Celebrating Excellence, Leadership, and Community in Detroit Metro

By Adel A. Mozip, Yemeni American News

June 5, 2026

Lincoln Park, MI — The American Association of Yemeni Students and Professionals (AAYSP) successfully hosted its 16th Annual Scholarship Gala on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Lincoln Manor Banquet Hall & Event Center in Lincoln Park, Michigan. The event brought together hundreds of students, families, educators, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate academic achievement, honor outstanding contributors, and reaffirm the organization’s commitment to empowering the next generation of Yemeni Americans.

The evening highlighted AAYSP’s ongoing mission to bridge educational gaps, promote higher education, and build leadership pathways within the Yemeni American community. Since its founding two decades ago, AAYSP has grown into a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supportin students and professionals across Michigan and beyond.

Keynote Address and Inspirational Moments

Dr. Jamilah Alhashidi, a respected Family Medicine physician and former AAYSP scholarship recipient, delivered the keynote speech. Her journey from scholarship awardee to community leader served as a powerful testament to the impact of AAYSP’s programs and the potential within the Yemeni American community. Attendees were moved by stories of perseverance, academic excellence, and service.

In her remarks, Dr. Alhashidi emphasized the transformative power of education and perseverance:

“Education opened doors for me that I never imagined possible. As a former AAYSP scholarship recipient, I stand before you today as proof that with dedication, support from our community, and faith in Allah, we can achieve our dreams and give back even more.”

She encouraged the students to embrace challenges and stay committed to their goals:

“There will be obstacles — cultural expectations, financial pressures, and self-doubt — but remember that every struggle builds resilience. Use your education not just for personal success, but as a tool to serve your families, your community, and beyond. Dream bigger, lead with purpose, and never forget where you came from.”

Dr. Alhashidi also highlighted the importance of mentorship and community support, urging families to continue investing in higher education and encouraging the youth to pursue careers in medicine, leadership, and public service.

The gala featured emotional testimonials, student performances, and networking opportunities that strengthened community ties. A highlight video of the event, shared on AAYSP’s Facebook page, captures the vibrant atmosphere, award presentations, and collective pride of the evening.

Award Recipients and Scholarship Honorees

AAYSP recognized exceptional individuals across several categories for their leadership, service, and dedication:

Principal of the Year Award

AAYSP honored Hebat Abdelbaki, Principal of Stout Middle School (Dearborn Public Schools), and Leola Banks, Principal of Dickinson West Elementary (Hamtramck Public Schools). Both were recognized for their outstanding leadership, dedication to student success, and creating supportive learning environments that uplift Yemeni American and all students in their schools. Their commitment to visibility, equity, and excellence sets a powerful example for educators across the community.

Community Member of the Year Award

Nasser Shariff was recognized for his longstanding dedication, service, and positive impact on the Yemeni American community through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership.

Administrator of the Year Award

Honorees included Afrah Mohamed (Universal Academy) Nabih Salem (Frontier Academy), Nail Jadallah (9th Grade Assistant Principal at Fordson High School – Dearborn Public Schools), and Afrin Alavi (Principal at Dearborn Academy). They were celebrated for their exceptional administrative leadership and unwavering support for students and families.

Teacher of the Year Awards

Multiple outstanding educators were recognized for their excellence in the classroom and commitment to Yemeni American students:

  • Welaya Al-Haiki (Salina Elementary School, Dearborn Public Schools)
  • Tarik Algharabli (Fordson High School, Dearborn Public Schools – Automotive Instructor)
  • Rolla Mouabbi (Fordson High School, Dearborn Public Schools – Math Teacher)
  • Duaa Saleh (Dearborn Public Schools)
  • Richard Bilo Bonaagua (Oakland International Academy)
  • Sumaia Alhashimi (Frontier International Academy, Detroit/Hamtramck)
  • Jessica Madden (Hamtramck Public Schools)
  • Aishah Muhammad (International Islamic Academy in Detroit)

Each honoree was praised for their passion, innovation, and dedication to fostering student growth and success.

This year’s scholarships, made possible through generous sponsors and donors, were awarded to deserving high school seniors and undergraduate students of Yemeni heritage, providing critical financial support for their higher education journeys.

Community Impact and Future Outlook

AAYSP Board members and organizers expressed gratitude to sponsors, volunteers, and families for making the event possible. The gala not only awards financial support but also builds a culture of achievement and service.

“Events like this remind us that education is the foundation of our community’s progress,” one organizer noted. The organization continues to expand its scholarship programs, mentorship initiatives, and family engagement efforts.

For more information about AAYSP scholarships, upcoming programs, or how to get involved, visit aaysp.org or follow them on Instagram and Facebook @aaysp.

The 16th Annual Scholarship Gala stands as another milestone in AAYSP’s legacy of uplifting Yemeni American youth and fostering a brighter future for our community in Michigan and across the nation.

Congratulations to all awardees, scholarship recipients, and the AAYSP team for another successful celebration of excellence!