Mona Mahmudnizhad, affectionately known as Mona, was born on September 10, 1965, in Yemen to dedicated Bahá’í parents, Yad’u’llah and Farkhundeh Mahmudnizhad. Her early years were marked by her family’s commitment to their faith, which eventually led them back to Iran in 1969 due to political changes in Yemen. Settling in Shiraz, a city of…
In a time when messages of unity and inclusivity are both championed and challenged, one Idaho middle school teacher’s commitment to embracing all students has sparked national attention. Sarah Inama, known for her dedication to fostering an inclusive classroom environment, recently faced administrative pushback for displaying posters promoting acceptance. The controversy began when Inama was…
Dearly-beloved Greatest Holy Leaf! Through the mist of tears that fill my eyes I can clearly see, as I pen these lines, thy noble figure before me, and can recognize the serenity of thy kindly face. I can still gaze, though the shadows of the grave separate us, into thy blue, love-deep eyes, and can feel…
Few individuals have left as profound a legacy of service, leadership, and devotion as Amatu’l-Bahá Rúhíyyih Khánum. A towering figure in the Bahá’í Faith, her life was dedicated to promoting unity, advancing social progress, and championing the principles of peace and justice. An essay published on Bahai.org beautifully captures the remarkable journey of this extraordinary…
Margaret E. Knight, often called “the female Edison,” is one of the most influential yet under-recognized inventors of the 19th century. Born in 1838, Knight made groundbreaking contributions to the industrial world, especially in the packaging industry. Her invention of the flat-bottomed paper bag machine revolutionized packaging, leaving a lasting legacy. With over 20 patents…
The conversation about gender equality continues to evolve, and a recent episode of the Bahá’í World News Service podcast explores the spiritual foundations of this essential issue. Representatives from the Addis Ababa, Brussels, Cairo, and New York Offices of the Bahá’í International Community (BIC) reflect on the progress made and the barriers that still exist…
Helen Keller (1880–1968) remains one of the most inspiring figures in modern history. Deaf and blind from an early age, she overcame incredible challenges to become a renowned author, activist, and humanitarian. Her story of resilience continues to impact generations worldwide. Early Life and Education Helen Adams Keller was born on June 27, 1880, in…
March 12 marks National Girl Scout Day, a special occasion that honors the incredible contributions of Girl Scouts nationwide. For over a century, the Girl Scouts have been pivotal in empowering young girls through leadership, service, and skill-building opportunities. Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low, the Girl Scouts organization has shaped generations of confident,…
Hazel Scott, the sole survivor of her parents’ seven children, loved the piano from the time she was a very young child. Her mother, Alma, practiced and taught piano in their home in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The sound was as much a part of the child as was her breathing. Later, Hazel would call…
when I was leader of a boys’ club for underprivileged eight-year-olds, I found that when I observed and complained to authorities about their special needs (health, food, parental inadequacies), I was told that ‘the law says this or that.’ I decided that…lawyers appeared to have the inside edge.” Nelson adds that she wanted to be…
