Our story
About the Art & Wilderness Institute
Faith-rooted outdoor education, open to all families.
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, dreamed up 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 that community spans generations, from the two-year-old naturalist to the tenured retiree, all of them learning outdoors with their hands in the dirt across Southern and Northern California.
We believe genuine learning comes 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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AWI runs outdoor classes, camps and hikes across California, rooted in stewardship of the land and service to community.