The Intention
Our intention is to guide agricultural practitioners toward a deeper awareness of Allah and His creation. We aim to offer a space where those drawn to the connection between heaven and earth can seek clarity, learn, and reflect. At its heart, this work highlights God’s sovereignty and the divine artistry present in every aspect of the natural world.
The Mission
Our goal is to cultivate a deeper appreciation and understanding among agricultural practitioners for Allah’s creation, focusing on the natural order, agricultural production, and food systems. We plan to organize engaging lectures, retreats, and training sessions in various locations to foster community connections. These initiatives will highlight the vital link between human health and environmental health, encouraging a holistic approach to agriculture and sustainability.
The Vision
A future where Muslim agricultural practitioners lead the way in cultivating systems that live in harmony with Allah’s created order. A landscape where farming is balanced, ethical, and deeply rooted in Islamic stewardship. A world where agriculture naturally aligns with the rhythms and responsibilities entrusted to us by our Creator.
Meet Our Founders
Experienced Professionals and Advocates
Dr. Harun Cicek
founder
Dr. Harun Cicek has almost two decades of experience in sustainable food production systems and has worked on agroecological research and development in North and South America, Central Asia, India, Middle East, Africa and Europe. He is currently leading several multinational, research and innovation oriented agroecological initiatives across West Africa and Mediterranean region. He holds a PhD from University of Manitoba on Organic Agriculture and BSc from University of Ottawa on Environmental Science. He has been an active contributor and organizer of grassroots movements on local and organic foods, as well as, a practicing farmer.
Ghezal Sabir
founder
Ghezal Sabir has almost two decades of experience in public health and nutrition in both private and public sector. She has extensive experience in North America, Middle East and Europe on nutrition and healthy living promotion. She holds an MSc degree on Human Ecology from University of Manitoba and Nutrition degree from University of Western Ontario. Ghezal is also a farmer and has been an active volunteer in local gardening associations in Switzerland. She is currently pursuing her PhD investigating the intersection of faith and farmers’ biodiversity practices at the University of Bern.
Kevin A. Marshall
Kevin is a classical education fellow at the University of Dallas, homeschooling father, and trained community organizer with over 20 years of field experience spanning the arts, interfaith, and community-based education. He serves as the founding organizer of Our Islamic Homeschool (OIH), a global community of homeschooling parents and educators collaborating to raise the next generation of thoughtful, committed Muslims.
Alhamdulillah, Kevin is both excited and humbled to contribute to Islamic Agroecology’s community engagement initiatives serving diverse seekers and families alike, insha’Allah.
Brittany Pettitt
Brittany Pettitt is an ecologist, permaculture designer, and graduate student at Boston Architectural College, where her work focuses on designing spaces that promote health, wellness, and harmony with the natural world. She holds a degree in Ecology from Cornell University, during which time God opened her heart to Islam through her exploration of ecology, a transformation that continues to shape her understanding of and vision for environmental design and education. Brittany is the founder of Little Sandals Nature Club, where she creates faith-filled, nature-centered learning experiences for children and families.
Our Farm
Our farm sits at the edge of a 100 km stretch of native forest, overlooking a lush valley filled with olives, figs, grapes, pomegranates, and other fruit trees.
The local mosque, convenience store, and tea house are all within a 5-minute walk, offering easy access to daily needs and a warm village atmosphere. This peaceful natural setting creates the perfect environment for reflection, learning, and meaningful hands-on farm work.
Our Partners
Our Islamic Homeschool
A global homeschooling platform with more than 700 members, dedicated to empowering parents as they raise the next generation of thoughtful and committed Muslims.
Little Sandals Nature Club
Little Sandals Nature Club provides faith-rooted, nature-based learning experiences that inspire awe, reflection, curiosity, and a deep sense of stewardship in young learners. Our work has been recognized nationally, with LSNC being accepted into the VELA Network, one of the leading microschool, homeschool, and co-op incubators and professional communities in the United States.