Presents
Eid in the Motherland
Our 10th Spiritual Rejuvenation and Transformative Journey
Medina Baye, Kaolack and Dakar Senegal
March 27-April 3, 2025
$4100
LIMITED SPACES.ADULTS ONLY.
We're going to Africa!
This Eid-al-Fitr, do something different!
We're going to spend a week in AFRICA! Imagine having the opportunity to both cleanse your soul during the last days of Ramadan AND connect to the Motherland at the same time.
This experience is for culturally curious and spiritually-led souls who want to have an amazing, opening experience and give themselves the gift of world exploration.
*Islamically focused curriculum & program. The program is open to Muslims and non-Muslims, however, you should know the focus is on studying and experiencing Eid in an African Muslim country.
Part 1:
Medina Baye, Kaolack (Days 1-5)
The final ten days of Ramadan hold profound significance, serving as a sacred time for deep reflection, increased worship, and spiritual growth. While daily prayers are a cornerstone of faith, these last days are a unique opportunity to seek closeness to Allah through devotion and knowledge.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Tijani Sufi spirituality in Medina Baye, Kaolack.
Within this serene sanctuary, immerse yourself in:
✨Soulful spiritual cleansing
✨Profound prayers and engaging dhikr
✨Insightful visits to esteemed Islamic scholars, artisans, and entrepreneurs
Experience the sacredness of Ramadan’s final days in a place where
tranquility and divine connection come together, fostering inner peace and spiritual renewal.
I've arranged for experienced guides to illuminate the significance of the Tijani path and share insights into the rich, centuries-old lineage of Islamic scholarship that thrives in this region.
One of the unique aspects of our journey will be meeting with female scholars—an opportunity that is rare but vital for the continuation and enrichment of Islamic knowledge in this area.
Activities in Medina Baye:
Visits to Spiritual Guides and Tijani Sheikhs
Exploration of the Kaolack Market & Shopping Experience
Mulfa (Desert Dress) Workshop
Dhikr (Spiritual Chanting Sessions)
Tijani Bead Workshop
Engaging with Female Scholars
Tour of the Kaolack Mosque and Spiritual Grounds
Meeting African-American Students Studying Quran in Medina Baye
Eid Prayer & Festivities
*Our Medina Baye curriculum is coordinated in partnership with Medina Baye Residences, an AA owned boutique hotel company.
Part 2:
Dakar (Days 5-8)
Post-Eid in Dakar
Following Ramadan and Eid, our journey continues to Dakar, a vibrant city pulsating with history, monuments, and a rich cultural tapestry.
Unravel the historical treasures and delve into the fascinating stories embedded in the city's monuments. From the grandeur of Goree Island to the bustling markets and the enchanting sites, immerse yourself in Dakar's captivating allure.
Before immersing yourself in the tranquility of Medina Baye, experience the dynamic energy and rich cultural heritage of Dakar, Senegal’s bustling coastal capital.
Activities in Dakar:
Goree Island
African Renaissance Monument & Museum
Artisans
Shopping
Cooking Class
Pagne Tisse - Traditional Woven Fabric of Senegal Workshop
Expat connections
Tilene Market
*Our Dakar itinerary is coordinated in conjunction with Malick KANE, Coordinator of the Gorée Memorial Project and a dynamic expert in African Diasporic connections between Africa, Brazil and the US.
Part 1:
Medina Baye, Kaolack (Days 1-5)
It is said that the last 10 days of Ramadan hold special signifance. We know that Muslims pray daily, however the last 10 days are seen as a time to reflect, increase worship and to increase one's religious knowledge, seeking closeness to Allah.
Join us for an unforgettable exploration commencing in the Tijani Sufi heart of spirituality, Medina Baye, Kaolack. Here, within the serene confines of Medina Baye, prepare for a soulful journey of spiritual cleansing, profound prayers, engaging dhikr, and visits to Islamic scholars, artisans, entrepreneurs and more.
Delve into the sacredness of the last days of Ramadan, allowing the tranquility of this remarkable place to envelop you, fostering inner peace and spiritual rejuvenation.
I've hired guides who will share with us the significance of the Tijani path and teach us about the centuries long lineage of Islamic scholarship in this area.
We'll also meet with female scholars, something not many people experience, but important to the continuation of Islam in this region.
Activities in Medina Baye include:
Visits to spiritual guides and Tijani Sheikhs
Kaolack Market & Shopping Experience
Mulfa (desert dress) workshop
Dhikr (spiritual chanting sessions)
Tijani Bead workshop
Visiting with female scholars
The Kaolack Mosque and spiritual grounds
Visit the African-American students living in Medina Baye to study Quran
Eid Prayer & Festivities
*Our Medina Baye curriculum is coordinated in parternship with Medina Baye Residences, an AA owned boutique hotel company.
Dakar (Days 5-8)
Post-Eid in Dakar
Following Ramadan and Eid, our journey continues to Dakar, a vibrant city pulsating with history, monuments, and a rich cultural tapestry. Unravel the historical treasures and delve into the fascinating stories embedded in the city's monuments. From the grandeur of Goree Island to the bustling markets and the enchanting sites, immerse yourself in Dakar's captivating allure.
Goree Island
African Renaissance Monument & Museum
Artisans
Shopping
Cooking Class
Pagne Tisse - Traditional Woven Fabric of Senegal Workshop
Expat connections
Tilene Market
Each day with Dakar as our base, we'll explore a different aspect of Senegalese culture.
*Our Dakar itinerary is coordinated in conjunction with Malick KANE, Coordinator of the Gorée Memorial Project and a dynamic expert in African Diasporic connections between Africa, Brazil and the US.
Senegal, home of beauty, culture and history
Witness the African Renaissance Monument, a towering 160-foot masterpiece that stands as a symbol of African resilience, unity, and ambition.
Perched atop one of Dakar’s highest hills, this breathtaking bronze statue offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of Senegal’s most iconic landmarks.
Savor the vibrant flavors of Senegal's national dish, Thieboudienne. This aromatic and colorful meal embodies the heart of Senegalese cuisine, featuring fish, rice, and a medley of vegetables cooked in a tantalizing blend of spices and herbs.
Discover the haunting beauty of Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the coast of Senegal. This tiny island holds the weight of history in its cobbled streets and colonial architecture, offering a poignant glimpse into the harrowing past of the transatlantic slave trade.
7
FASHION SHOWS
2
DAYS
12
SUCCESS STORIES
200
WORKSHOPS
About Zarinah, Your Travel Organizer
Peace, I'm Zarinah...
Senegal holds a special place in my heart.
I'm a cultural anthropologist, author coach, and transformative life expert who works with women who love to travel, learn about other cultures, and give back to society in big ways.
My first major international experience was to Egypt following college in 2001 when I turned my back on my corporate career. I ended up staying in Cairo for about a year and My God! When I tell you my entire life shifted in major ways!
Since then, I've been to Morocco, Portugal, Jamaica, Bermuda, Senegal, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Switzerland, Turkey, Mexico, Japan and have led over 40 women on amazing, soul-stirring international experiences.
My motto is to:
LIVE BOLD
LIVE FREE &
LIVE IN SYNC WITH SELF & GOD
My goal for you is to have an amazing experience that contributes to the positive evolution of your life.
Senegal holds a special place in my heart as it's a place I've been to several times and it's where my eldest son chose to study Islam. He's currently there with the goal of becoming a hafidth of Quran.
The Food
In Medina Baye, we will enjoy home cooked Senegalese meals for dinner.
As this is during Ramadan, we will be providing an early morning suhoor (breakfast) and an evening meal.
Meals will be taken with the scholars and sheikhs of the area and are eaten communally.
There are a few restaurants in the area for those who wish to enjoy other meals.
*Halal meat
*Vegetarian options are limited. If you require vegetarian only, please let us know ahead of time so that we can work to accommodate your requests.
Private Cooking Class
In Dakar, we will be eating at a selection of restaurants. We will also enjoy fresh seafood at an ocenside restaurant and have fun with a private home-based cooking class!
The Food
In Medina Baye, we will enjoy home cooked Senegalese meals for dinner.
As this is during Ramadan, we will be providing an early morning suhoor (breakfast) and an evening meal.
Meals will be taken with the scholars and sheikhs of the area and are eaten communally.
There are a few restaurants in the area for those who wish to enjoy other meals.
*Halal meat
*Vegetarian options are limited. If you require vegetarian only, please let us know ahead of time so that we can work to accommodate your requests.
Private Cooking Class
In Dakar, we will be eating at a selection of restaurants. We will also enjoy fresh seafood at an ocenside restaurant and have fun with a private home-based cooking class!
PRE-TRIP:
We'll have 3-4 group prep sessions prior to traveling.
These will allow you to meet the other sisters on the journey as well as meet on on the ground guides in Senegal.
African Languages: Wolof Language Instructor
African Diaspora & Senegal with Mr. Malick KANE
Expat Life with Sr. Joi Faison, co-owner of Medina Baye Residences
Scholarship & Studying the Quran with Sufyan Naeem, teenager who moved to Senegal to study Islam
PRE-TRIP:
We'll have 3-4 group prep sessions prior to traveling.
These will allow you to meet the other sisters on the journey as well as meet on on the ground guides in Senegal.
African Languages: Wolof Language Instructor
African Diaspora & Senegal with Mr. Malick KANE
Expat Life with Sr. Joi Faison, co-owner of Medina Baye Residences
Scholarship & Studying the Quran with Sufyan Naeem, teenager who moved to Senegal to study Islam
Hotels
Medina Baye Residences
Single Accommodation
Enjoy a peaceful night's sleep on a plush queen-sized bed, and wake up to the convenience of our in-room efficiency kitchen. Stay connected with fast and reliable WiFi and enjoy a cozy night in with in-room TV featuring Netflix.
Your air-conditioned room ensures you remain cool and comfortable throughout your stay, and daily housekeeping service ensures your space remains tidy and clean.
*This brand new hotel was opened in 2023 by a group of young African-American real estate developers. It is the first boutique hotel owned by Americans in the region and in fact, is a novel idea in Senegal.
Dakar
Our Dakar accommodation is being finalized and will be single accommodations again.
We are looking at two hotels, and also a very nice villa in a neighborhood for a true expat feel.
One of my favorite things to do when in Africa is get a custom outfit made. Well, this time I've connected with two of my favorite tailors and YOU can get a custom outfit made as well!
We'll also be having a PRIVATE session on how to tie the MELFA, a dress made of a singular piece of cloth and sold in Kaolack by mostly Mauritanian Women.
Lastly, we'll have a PRIVATE shopping session for scarves and others items with a beautiful young fashion entreprenur in Medina Baye.
Who this is for:
If you're someone who's ready to heed the call of the extraordinary, embrace change, and immerse yourself fully in the rhythms of new cultures, then we invite you to step forward and join us on this transformative journey of a lifetime.
Who this is NOT for:
Enliven Your Soul Journeys are not merely travel for pretty pictures excursions. We've curated a program that is designed to allow you to see a variety of aspects of the region AND also to explore your own soul. We'll be encouraging each of you to use this experience to really connect to your soul and the world in deeply meaningful ways. For our experiences, you should be comfortable going from a beach resort to a village without running water. You never know what you may come across while in the field!
Eid in the Motherland
A Spiritual Rejuvenation and Cultural Experience
$4100
Limited Spaces
Reserve your spot today.
OPTION 1: PAY IN FULL (save $300)
or
OPTION 2: PAYMENT PLAN
Non-refundable deposit of $500 to reserve your space
3 Monthly Payments of $1300
Final payment must be completed by February 15, 2025
WHAT'S INCLUDED
~ Two private group pre-trip Wolof Sessions with University Wolof Instructor
~ Pre-trip cultural session with Malick Kane, our Dakar guide
~ Pre-trip cultural session with our Medina Baye expert and representative, Joi Faison
~ Private session on dhikr and Senegalese dhikr beads (Medina Baye)
~ Private shopping experience with a local fashion entrepreneur
~ Private mulfa tying session
~ Private Home Based Senegalese Cuisine Cooking Class
~ Visits to Tijani Sheikhs and homes
~ Visits to Markets & Artisans in both Medina Baye and Dakar
~ Private Ziyarah (Visits) to Scholars
~ Visit to African Renaissance Monument & Museum
~ Private visits to American expats and entrepreneurs living in Senegal
~ Enliven Your Soul T-Shirt
~ Complimentary Airport Transfer (specific time available)
~ All Daily Meals except during Dakar free time (Breakfast and dinner during Ramadan; breakfast, lunch & dinner in Dakar)
~ Private, 7 Nights Hotel Accommodations in 3-4 star accommodations (with some home visits)
~ English Speaking Tour Guides in Medina Baye and Dakar
~ Ground transportation to and from scheduled destinations (does not include international airfare)
~ The Power of Transformative Travel Masterclass and Guidebook by Zarinah El-Amin
~ Any entry / activity fees
~ Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
~ Hotel porterage
~ Post Trip, Transformative Travel reentry and debriefing sessions with Enliven Your Soul Founder, Zarinah El-Amin
What's NOT Included
~ International Airfare to Senegal
~ Traveler's Insurance (Mandatory)
~ Meals or snacks other than those stated above
~ Tips
~ Gifts to Sheikhs and leaders
~ Shopping, personal costs and anything else.
What happens After You Pay Your Deposit?
~ After you pay your deposit, you'll receive an email from Zarinah within 72 hours with next steps and your payment plan information.
~ For those paying in full, you will also receive an email from Zarinah with confirmation and schedule of pre-trip sessions.
Cancellation Policy
**A non-refundable deposit of $500 USD Deposit is required to hold your space.
We only have space for 9 -16 people to join us.
If you cancel:
Any cancellation for any reason on your side will result in a total loss of the $500 USD deposit.
Any cancellation received in writing before January 15th will result in a loss of 50% of the trip price.
Any cancellation made after January 16th will result in a total loss of funds.
If WE cancel:
We reserve the right to cancel the trip if it is not meeting the trip minimum. If we cancel, your deposit and any monies paid are refunded in full within 4 business days.
Traveler's insurance is MANDATORY.
Be sure to have adequate medical coverage and trip cancellation or interruption.
INFO SESSION:
We also have an information session answering questions and letting you know what to expect -- go to www.enlivenyoursoul.com/travelinfo to register for our next information session!
But that's not it!
Part 2:
After the trip...
One of the things I've noticed since organizing these experiences since 2016, is that travel can open your mind and usher in new ways of being and going after life.
Chances are you will NOT return home the same woman you left. I don't know HOW it will affect you personally, but i've seen women come back and take more action in their lives. I've seen them start new businesses, I've seen them incorporate more exercise...
It's like travel allows new neuropathways to be built in your brain and you never know what good thing happens.
Therefore, after our trip and we've returned to our lives and regular routines, we want to continue our work and connection through our specialized POST RETREAT soul work.
For four weeks after the experience, we'll meet weekly to conduct a powerful soul audit and debrief from our experience, helping us continue our positive evolution as women of the world.
If you're tired of playing it safe and are ready to paint your life with vibrant, daring strokes, then this program offers the canvas for your most audacious dreams.
✨ Week 1: Dream
✨ Week 2: Who are we: The Cultural Wombs That Bore Us
✨ Week 3: Release
Through our dreaming and exploration of culture, we'll unearth some things that we need to release on our positive evolution journey. We'll work through those in this section.
✨ Week 4: Review
You'll spend time reviewing your audit to check-in and adjust anything before moving into the action phase.
A Celebration of Individuality And A Tribute to Love
Why headwraps? We use the colorful, multi-cultural art of headwrapping – think turbans, scarves and more – to serve as a unifier and a way to enlighten and brighten the moods of our guests. Love people watching? Interested in the spiritual and cultural side of dress? Looking for a unique item to wear or adorn your home? Love fashion? If you answered YES to any of these, then you’ll love the Headwrap Expo.
Founded by anthropologist Zarinah El-Amin Naeem in 2013, The Headwrap Expo has grown into an eclectic space where people feel free to be themselves, while learning about others.
Building Community
THE ENLIVEN YOUR SOUL FOUNDATION FOR GLOBAL ADVANCEMENT, a 501c3 organization and sister of Enliven Your Soul has as it’s mission to use art, culture and education to help women across the globe. Our current project is the Girls African Scholarship Fund in Sierra Leone. Since 2003, we’ve given over $15,000 to young girls. Our next goal is to build a school for entrepreneurship. Each entrepreneur who births a business through our trainings pledges to give back in some way.
Do you need additional clarity on which way to go? Start here.
LIVE EVENTS
How can you create a community movement around a subject you are passionate about? How can you rally the troops? How can you meet new supportive friends? You can have the best idea ever but if you don’t know who to bring people together to support it, it won’t get off the ground. We use our annual signature event, The Headwrap Expo, to not only fulfill our ultimate goal of building a global culture of love, but as a wonderful teaching tool for those who want to learn how to pull a community together in their own area.
TRAVEL
Have you ever wanted to travel? How did Zarinah, a regular city girl from Detroit, end up a world traveler? How does travel affect your position as a business owner and how can travel be your new normal? As travel is one of the best ways to not only learn more about the world, but learn about yourself, we infuse global excursions and retreats into our repertoire of offerings to accelerate our client’s growth.
ONLINE COURSES
How can you build a business you love without burnout? How can you become more confident on your entrepreneurial path and make quantum leaps? How can you ultimately get the support you need to make it happen! Learn these topics and more in Zarinah’s online courses and high-level trainings.
PRIVATE COACHING
When was the last time you put yourself in a position where you had expert attention and focus on you and your growth? Business runs in a spiral, not a straight line and if you are someone who wants to make an impact in big way, giving yourself the support you deserve is key. This is your opportunity to get unstuck and create strong momentum in your business by having Zarinah’s attention.
GOLD MINE WOMEN'S BUSINESS CIRCLE
Do you know you need long-term accountability to make this work? Have you started and stopped several times and want to be a part of a system designed to accelerate your business AND build the skills you need for sustainable success? Zarinah’s year-long GOLD MINE WOMEN’S BUSINESS CIRCLE could be the perfect tool for you.
Giving back
What is your cause?
Travel is an investment in yourself.
Consider this your Eid Gift!
Traveling and soul work are transformative, BUT too many of us push them to the side.
We've done all the hard work and planning for you, all you need to do is show up ready to go.
Show up for yourself and show up for your dreams.
This anthropological tour is your opportunity to embark on a soul-stirring adventure, to rewrite the story of your life in bold, vibrant hues.
Embrace the unknown, live boldly, and keep the spirit of adventure alive within you!
Enliven YOUR soul...
And let's enliven the world!
WHAT OTHERS SAY:
Leanna Abdulmaged
Leanna Abdulmaged
Ryan
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Questions?
Can I talk to someone first?
Yes, please reach out to Zarinah at [email protected] to discuss your participation and ensure this is a good fit.
We also have information sessions answering questions and letting you know what to expect -- go to www.enlivenyoursoul.com/travelinfo to register for our next information session!
What type of accommodations will we be staying in?
You will have your own bed and your own room in Medina Baye in our beautiful boutique 4-5* hotel. In Dakar, you will also have your own room and own comfortable bed, however we may opt for a more homestay instead of hotel. We are finalizing this portion now, however all of our experience are on the luxurious side.
I have preexisting medical conditions, how can I tell if this is for me?
Please reach out to discuss this if you have any concerns. You should be able to manage your own walking and care during the trip.
What fitness level is required to join this tour?
This tour requires a mild level of fitness. You should be prepared to walk on Goree Island as well as in parts of Dakar.
Can I go on my own and skip excursions?
We have curated a meticulous and thought-out program, however, if you ever decide to skip an activity, you are welcome to.
Is a visa required?
No Visa is required for US Passport Holders staying in the country for less than 30 days.
Is this only for Muslims?
This experience is for any spiritually-led, global-minded woman. As a Muslim, I do not include alcohol or pork in any meals, and whenever possible, accommodate halal meat requirements. In addition, we do not visit bars or other places of a similar kind.
Is this for women only?
Yes.
If you have any other questions about the program, please email us at [email protected] or attend one of our information sessions.
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Enliven Your Soul Journeys are built around engaging with people, not just getting a passport stamp.
Our all-inclusive, multi-city tours are meticulously orchestrated and led by regional experts and local guides with insider knowledge to add a new perspective to your journey. We link unique cultures, historic sites and natural wonders rarely experienced together for a journey of mind, body, and spirit...rich in self-discovery.