In this exclusive interview, we’re pleased to have the opportunity to delve into the mind and experiences of our distinguished guest – Br. Zubair Zafar. As the founder of One Ummah Project, his insights and perspectives will undoubtedly provide valuable lessons and inspiration for our readers. Join us as we explore Br. Zubair’s journey in shedding light on what it takes to be a pillar in today’s Muslim community.
Read the exclusive interview below:
What led you to start your business?
A long-standing desire to revive the ummah and the Islamic spirit of the Sahabah: Certainty in faith, confidence in identity, and united in action.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced so far?
Self-Doubt. Starting a business requires a lot of work, which is hard. But that hard work is even tougher when you’re not even sure if it’s amounting to anything, whether you are doing the right thing or wrong thing, or whether you even have the chops to do it.
How has your business changed over time?
We’re still very young (less than a year), so it’s constantly evolving. It feels like every other month we are adding/removing a service, partnering with a new client, and hiring a new person. With each change is an entirely different dynamic. But that change is exciting.
What are your goals for the future?
Ultimately, to revive the ummah. More short term: get into 10 masjids in the southeast, and then recreate that model in 3 – 5 cities. Once we are in 35 – 50 masjids, start a national/top down approach with the hopes of being in 100 masjids, 500 masjids, and 1000 masjids.
Why do you think your services are a good fit for your target market?
Because there is an intense need that has gone unfulfilled for too long. Masjids really are under-resourced and seemingly, no organization is willing to put in the groundwork and effort on working “in” them, rather than “with” them.
What do you think sets your company apart from the competition?
The few masjid consulting organizations work as traditional consulting groups: offer advice and walk out. As important as those are, it isn’t the know-how masjids lack, but rather resources. We are a masjid accelerator organization that does the initial work to get masjids on track.
What do you believe is the most important thing for businesses to focus on when it comes to marketing?
Understanding your product first. Then what target profile needs that product. Then finally, marketing: what are the roadblocks from getting you to that target profile.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own business?
Find your competitive advantage. What makes you uniquely qualified to start what you are starting, then be sure of it, because you will doubt yourself a 1000 times a day.
Has religion played a role in starting your business or pursuing your path?
Yes, it is a religious business and the primary motivation in my life.
Where do we find you?
Website – Oneummah.world
Instagram – oneummah.project
We would like to thank Br. Zubair for his time and efforts in making a difference in our Muslim communities, one masjid at a time.
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