Co-Founder & Executive Director, Irtiqa’ Learning Center

“Faith. Purpose. Legacy.”

Omar Ali’s journey from an English Language Learner to a passionate educator and founder of Irtiqa’ Learning Center is a powerful testament to resilience, vision, and service.

Driven by his own experiences navigating the U.S. education system as an ELL student, Omar dedicated his life to creating a learning space where Muslim youth feel seen, supported, and spiritually grounded. With over a decade of experience in education—including roles as a para-professional, Arabic teacher, and ELL instructor—he brings both professional insight and personal empathy to Irtiqa’s model.

Omar holds a Master’s degree in English Language Learning and is trained in evidence-based instructional strategies like ENVoY, RC PPIS, and the READ Act. His deep belief in the potential of each child fuels Irtiqa’s mission to combine high-quality academics (via Connections Academy) with a warm, faith-centered environment. By assembling a dedicated team of Qur’an and Islamic Studies educators from Egypt, he ensures every student has the tools to thrive intellectually and spiritually.

But Irtiqa’ is more than just a school—it’s a legacy. For Omar, this initiative is about building a lasting, God-centered impact that uplifts families and communities for generations to come. He hopes Irtiqa’ becomes a sanctuary for youth: a place where they build character, grow in deen, and discover the purpose Allah has written for them.