The 24th Annual UMAA Convention (2026)
Dates: October 9th – 11th (Canadian ThanksGiving Weekend)
Location: Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa (8500 Warden Avenue, Markham, ON, L6G 1A5)
Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity.
Join 5,000+ Shia Muslims this year, insha’Allah, at the annual UMAA Convention as we gather to explore a defining question for our community:
The Next Chapter: From Identity to Impact
For generations, our identity has been shaped by faith, sacrifice, history, and a deep connection to the legacy of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). But identity is not the destination—it is the foundation.
The Next Chapter asks what we do with that foundation.
How do we transform our beliefs into action, our values into service, and our collective identity into meaningful impact? How do we empower a generation that is confident in who they are, purposeful in what they stand for, and equipped to shape the future?
Together, we will explore the opportunities before the global Shia community—from strengthening our institutions and investing in our youth to serving our societies, building bridges, embracing innovation, and creating a lasting legacy.
This is more than a conversation about who we are.
From identity to impact.
From community to contribution.
From this generation to the next.
AI & Technology Venture Competition
Your venture. Your stage. Your opportunity.
Pitch your boldest AI or technology venture live at the UMAA 24th Annual Convention and put your idea in front of investors, industry leaders, and hundreds of attendees.
$100,000 INVESTMENT*
+ Expert Mentoring
+ Live Investor Exposure
Are you building something real?
We're looking for ambitious early-stage founders across AI, FinTech, HealthTech, Robotics, CleanTech, and emerging technologies.
Application Deadline: September 18, 2026
October 9–11, 2026
Hilton Toronto – Markham Suites
Markham, Ontario
Sayeda Zainab Shrine Nothing But Beauty Project
Together we shine
OVERVIEW AND HISTORY
The UMAA is an non-governmental organization (or “NGO”) that works on social, political, religious, and humanitarian issues. UMAA is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization as well. UMAA has obtained ECOSOC non-profit status with the United Nations and regularly participates in related initiatives.
Mission Statement
UMAA aims to provide a platform for Shia Muslims to advance political, social, economic and religious goals important to their community. By providing Shia Muslims a forum to foster intra-faith unity, to participate in civic and political responsibilities, to dispel misgivings about Islam and Muslims, to help people better understand Islam through the Qu’ran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his Ahl al-Bayt (AS).
Biggest Nonprofits, Partner Organization
The 21st Annual UMAA Convention (2025)
Join the 5000 shia Muslims this year insh’allah at the annual UMAA Convention as we come together to shine light on
“The Global Shia Narrative: Identity, Challenges, and Opportunities”
Join Hands To Serve The Community Become a Volunteer Become a Volunteer
Volunteers
ATTENDEES
CONVENTIONS
