For many Muslim women, community is foundational. In cities like Los Angeles, finding spiritually familiar connections can be challenging. This gap in belonging has led women to intentionally create spaces to gather, connect, and build friendships.
Building Community in Los Angeles
Anisa Abdulle founded Her Gather, a community-oriented group for Muslim girls in Los Angeles, California. Abdulle grew up in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by a supportive Muslim community where gatherings were a part of everyday life, until she moved to Southern California.
As a newlywed, Abdulle felt a shift in her surroundings, missing the familiar faces and support system she had known. This wasn’t the first time Abdulle had experienced a transition; her parents sent her to live with two of her aunts in Egypt after she finished middle school. She initially expected to stay for the summer but ended up living there for three years, attending school and connecting with her community.
Returning to a new place as an adult, Abdulle again felt the lack of a strong community. After realizing she was unfairly channeling her loneliness towards her husband, she decided to create Her Gather, a group designed to foster connection among Muslim women.
The idea for Her Gather originated on TikTok, where Abdulle connected with another Muslim woman who reached out to ask if she was Somali. This initial connection led to a tiny friend group and the realization that many others shared her desire for community in Los Angeles.
“I was born and raised in the suburbs of LA, but just moved downtown last year. I had trouble finding other Muslim women to connect with because of how populated the city is,” says Mayha Aaejaz, a member of Her Gather. “I met Anisa, and she was so warm and welcoming and kind that I naturally felt comfortable around her. It’s so nice to finally have a space where people who look and dress like me obtain to meet up and do fun, cute things together.”
Abdulle’s upbringing instilled in her a sense of hospitality, inspired by her mother’s welcoming nature and willingness to help neighbors. She felt hesitant about whether anyone would attend Her Gather events, but decided to take the risk.
Since its inception, Her Gather has hosted events such as an annual Ramadan service project on Skid Row, providing food and affirmation cards. Abdulle has also created a Ramadan calendar, available on their Instagram page @hergather.la, to encourage connection during the fasting month.
Her Gather events are open to all ages and are free to attend, reflecting Abdulle’s belief that “everyone needs a friend.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Her Gather?
Her Gather is a community-oriented group for Muslim girls to find friends in Los Angeles, California, founded by Anisa Abdulle.
Where did Anisa Abdulle grow up?
Anisa Abdulle grew up in Columbus, Ohio, where she was surrounded by a supportive Muslim community.
How did Abdulle come up with the idea for Her Gather?
Abdulle was inspired to create Her Gather after connecting with another Muslim woman on TikTok and realizing a need for community among Muslim women in Los Angeles.
What does community imply to you, and how do you actively seek out spaces where you sense a sense of belonging?
