Barakah Beats

Nimra’s band Barakah Beats is a symbol of creative expression. Nimra is initially hesitant about joining the band when Waleed, Balil, Matthew, and Khadijah invite her to sing with them because not all Muslims believe in writing and performing music. However, the more time that Nimra spends with the band, the more she connects with their music. Barakah Beats allows Nimra to participate in a creative community for the first time. She not only sings with her bandmates but also helps them write new songs, design their logo, and conceptualize their brand.

Because Waleed, Balil, Matthew, and Khadijah are Muslim, too, Barakah Beats changes how Nimra thinks about her faith. Barakah Beats doesn’t just sing about adolescence and belonging. They also use their platform to share their faith with their community. Therefore, Nimra learns that music can be an important way for Muslims to communicate their religious and cultural experiences.

Nimra’s sketchbooks are symbolic of identity. Nimra has loved to draw since she was a little girl. The hobby gives her peace, joy, and balance. When she’s upset or lonely, sketching comforts her. When she’s confused or distracted, sketching helps her to refocus.