Our story
Reviving our role as stewards
To rekindle a love and appreciation for the environment and community through exploration, creativity, connection and growth.
It began under an elderberry tree.
The Art & Wilderness Institute grew from informal nature classes in 2019 — and was dreamed into being on a camping trip, beneath an elderberry tree, by Khadeeja Abdullah, Sama Wareh, and Syma Aslam Chaudhry, who imagined a wider community learning and growing together in nature.
Today we serve everyone from the two-year-old naturalist to the tenured retiree, through outdoor, hands-on, "get-muddy" learning across Southern and Northern California.
We believe genuine learning is achieved through acts of stewardship and service — planting trees, restoring habitat, leading hikes, and caring for one another and the earth.
What we believe
Caring for the earth is a sacred trust
We are faith-rooted in the conviction that stewardship of the earth — khilafah — is a trust given to all of us. That conviction shapes how we teach, serve, and gather.
And we warmly welcome families of all faiths and none. Our charter classes are non-sectarian, and every child is met with the same wonder, care, and invitation to explore.
Led with heart
Our founders
Sama Wareh, M.S.
Co-Founder & Executive Director
A naturalist of 20+ years who has led over a thousand hikes. TEDx and UN speaker, and author of "The Legend of Redwood Raven."
Dr. Khadeeja Abdullah
Co-Founder & Program Director
Holds a Doctorate in Environmental Science & Engineering from UCLA. Leads the vision and development of our programs.
Syma Syed
Co-Founder & Administrative Director
The "backbone" of AWI. B.A. from UC Irvine, bringing organization, care, and thoughtful leadership to every experience.
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Meet the team
Founders, instructors & board.
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Our impact
Transparency, scholarships & where support goes.
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Green Masjid Initiative
Helping mosques go green.
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FAQ
Enrollment, payment & program questions.
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Get involved
Volunteer, intern & join us.
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Contact
Visit, call, or send a note.
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