Around 2016, a mentor who was also a funder of the organization I was leading at the time posed a sobering question: ‘If I were to die, what would you do?’ With little understanding of fundraising back then, the question forced me into deep reflection. While pursuing my master’s degree, one of our courses on social entrepreneurship opened my eyes to trailblazers like the Grameen Foundation with micro-loans that empower local residents, Ben & Jerry’s efforts for domestic and international justice, Patagonia’s programming for workers in its supply chain; as well as others who blended mission with market. That journey eventually led me to apply for a fellowship at Cambridge University in the UK, where applicants were required to present a business concept. Naturally, mine was INKERIJ®—pronounced as “Encourage.”
The mentor posed a thought-provoking question: how would we sustain operational funding if he were no longer able to contribute? That moment sparked a period of deep reflection, leading me to draw from the insights I gained during my master’s studies—particularly in social entrepreneurship.
“Social entrepreneurship is the process of developing, funding, and implementing solutions to social, environmental, or community problems, often through innovative business models. It combines entrepreneurial strategies with a focus on creating positive social or environmental impact, rather than solely maximizing profit. Social entrepreneurs are individuals or organizations that drive this process, aiming to address issues like poverty, inequality, or environmental degradation.”
The vision was to develop a business model distinct from any other Muslim-led initiative rooted deeply in Islamic business ethics. INKERIJ introduced a unique ethos captured in the phrase: “a profit-making business with a social mission” and reflecting its founder’s identity as an “Entrepreneur with a social mission.” This branding positions INKERIJ not only with a business-oriented mindset but also as a leader among mission-driven organizations.
Inkerij’s A.C.E. model—Advisory, Community, and E-commerce is a well-crafted strategy built on a unique business framework. This pioneering model positions Inkerij as a trailblazing social enterprise distinctively the first of its kind to emerge from within the Muslim community.
Through insightful guidance for executives and organizations, a robust national network of leaders, and a secure online platform, Inkerij drives forward its campaign “Leading the Way!” As this integrated approach gains momentum, others will soon begin redefining what it means to be a social enterprise.
Life experience is the driving force behind the Inkerij Foundation, a 501(c)(3) social enterprise. Built with both the will and the capacity to scale, it operates as a profit-generating entity while advancing bold, innovative programming in service of the greater good.
Recent data indicates that California is home to approximately 200 employment social enterprises (ESEs), which collectively offer jobs, training, and support to around 10,000 individuals annually. These purpose-driven ventures are committed to removing employment barriers stemming from challenges such as homelessness, incarceration, or mental health issues. Remarkably, faith-based organizations have yet to establish a presence within this model.
As a native of Compton, California—a place where urban realities can push individuals toward the unimaginable—the founder learned to channel his lived experiences into transferable skills, as Terrence Stone emphasizes. The aim is to encourage others with a hard-earned wisdom into purposeful action and a sustainable livelihood that will lead the way.
This Black August, as we honor the resilience and legacy of Black leaders who’ve shaped meaningful change, Inkerij proudly launches its “Leading the Way!” campaign across social media. Be part of this movement ~ follow us and join the wave.
