Veiled Visionaries x Malikah
Community + Sisterhood + Safety
Okay so… we hosted a self-defense class with Malikah and it was everything.
The girls showed up READY. The energy? 10/10.
To celebrate the completion of our class, the girls were handed custom made Malikah stickers that could be worn proudly. Because let’s face it, learning how to defend yourself is not something you’re born with. You have to actively learn the different ways and the different weakpoints of your aggressor.
So, on December 7th, 2025, we did just that with our VeiledBesties and the Malikah team.
LET’S STEP INSIDE →
Hijab grab technique
So, how did we even get here in the first place? Who is Malikah? and why did Veiled Visionaries decide to partner with them? You might not be thinking of these questions initially, but these are some important questions we’d like to answer.
For those that don’t know: Malikah is a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to combating gender and hate-based violence, founded after their founder Rana Abdelhamid experienced a hate-based attack.
As a Muslim Egyptian woman growing up in Queens, NY post-9/11, Rana faced the challenges of navigating a world where fear and misunderstanding were often projected onto her community. This personal journey fueled her passion for creating a space where women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, could find healing, empowerment, and a sense of belonging.
Malikah was born out of this need for solidarity and safety, as well as the desire to combat gender and hate-based violence in a world that often marginalizes the most vulnerable.
Shoulder grab technique
Veiled Visionaries is not here just for the vibes. Yes, we love the paint-and-sips, and the trips and the color coordinated themed dinners. But, we’re more than that. We want to holistically build a community and sisterhood for you guys, and that would have to include serious events. Such as this event.
We hear stories all of the time of Muslim Women getting attacked. The crazy thing about life is, You NEVER think it could be you… until it actually is. And that’s the scary part. So, when we were trying to figure out what kind of event would benefit our VeiledBesties, we came across Malikah. Instantly, it clicked. We reached out and from there, the rest is history. This first-ever partnership with Malikah was exactly what we needed: A nod to uplifting Black Muslim Women thorugh defense techniques, while staying grounded in purpose.
What We Learned at Our Self-Defense Workshop with Malikah
Our recent self-defense class with Malikah was all about giving Muslim women practical, real-life tools to protect themselves with confidence. Here’s a breakdown of the techniques we covered:
1. Hand & Knee Strikes
We learned how to use the hands and knees: Two of the strongest, most accessible weapons on the body, to create distance and protect ourselves.
Our VeiledBesties practiced proper form, where to aim, and how to strike with power even if you’re not “strong.”
2. Verbal De-escalation
Before any physical technique, we focused on the most important tool: your voice.
Malikah taught us how to use strong, assertive language, boundary-setting phrases, and tone to de-escalate a situation before it becomes physical.
3. Defending Yourself from a Hijab or Hair Grab
This was one of the most important parts of the class. We learned how to respond if someone tries to pull your hijab or grab your hair. Techniques that help you stay balanced, protect your neck, break the grip, and create space to escape safely.
4. Shoulder Grab Defense
We practiced how to react quickly and effectively if someone grabs your shoulder from the front or behind. This included turning techniques, grip breaks, and simple movements to free yourself without needing strength or speed.
When Sisterhood and Safety Collides
The Space
At the core of this partnership, the Malikah team happily provided us a safe space at their headquarters. Beyond the physical skills, everyone walked away feeling more aware, more capable, and more connected. The room was full of support, laughter, and encouragement.
Because this? This is that unique sisterhood energy that makes VV special:
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Until next time,
