Fida al-Sayed
Born January 15, 1985 in Syria • Next birthday: January 15, 2026
January 15, 1985
Syria0
0 likesJanuary 15, 2026
66 days out12
Total visitsBehind every public triumph lies a private struggle; Fida al-Sayed's remarkable rise was no exception, marked by the trauma of exile from Syria and the challenge of forging a new identity in Sweden. Born on 1985-01-15 in Syria, he migrated with his family to Sweden around 2001, driven by his father's imprisonment and the wider oppression of the Assad regime. He assumed the role of imam at the Eskilstuna Mosque in Sweden and emerged as the spokesman for the Facebook page "The Syrian Revolution" and Chairman of the Youth Coalition of March 15. He co-founded the Office of the Damascus Declaration in Sweden in 2008 and publicly renounced terrorism, positioning himself as a voice of reform and peaceful resistance. In parallel he pursued studies in Sharia and a PhD in Innovation and Product Design at Mälardalen University. Years of relative obscurity followed his move abroad, as he built trust and networks within diaspora and opposition circles. Then his voice attained wider attention during the 2011 Arab Spring when he called for sanctions on Syria and advocated for political rather than military intervention. His work bridged religious leadership and civic activism, blending imam-ship with digital outreach and youth engagement. Today, Fida al-Sayed remains a potent symbol of vision and courage, whose influence continues to shape transnational Islamic activism and inspire future generations of reform-minded diaspora leaders.
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Career & Achievements
- Imam of Eskilstuna Mosque (circa 2008– )
- Chairman, Youth Coalition of March 15 (date unknown)
- Spokesman, “The Syrian Revolution” Facebook page (circa 2011)
- Co-founder, Office of the Damascus Declaration in Sweden (2008)
- PhD studies in Innovation & Product Design at Mälardalen University (ongoing)
Personal Details
Latest News
Nordic Muslim Journal
Syrian-Swedish Imam Fida al-Sayed Launches Youth Dialogue Initiative in Stockholm
On 9 November 2025 the Swedish-based imam and activist Fida al-Sayed announced a new initiative in Stockholm aimed at bridging young Muslims and civic leaders in diaspora communities. The project emphasises dialogue, youth leadership and civic literacy rather than traditional mosque-centred models.
European Faith & Reform Review
Fida al-Sayed Speaks at European Reform Congress Advocating Digital Faith Leadership
At a congress in Brussels on 27 October 2025, Fida al-Sayed offered a keynote on how imams and faith institutions must adopt digital tools to remain relevant in the 21st century. He argued that diaspora communities should reimagine religious authority through platforms that blend theology, design innovation and outreach.
Scandinavian Chronicle
Sweden's Eskilstuna Mosque Under Fida al-Sayed to Host Open-Forum on Syria Crisis
On 15 September 2025 the Eskilstuna Mosque, under the leadership of imam Fida al-Sayed, held a public open-forum on the ongoing Syrian humanitarian crisis, inviting both Syrian diaspora and Swedish civic authorities. The event showcased al-Sayed's hybrid role as religious leader and political interlocutor in diaspora activism.
Mälardalen University News
Research Project Led by Fida al-Sayed Explores Innovation in Islamic Education & Design
On 30 August 2025, Mälardalen University announced a new interdisciplinary research project spearheaded by Fida al-Sayed, focusing on 'Innovation in Islamic Education and Product Design'. The study will evaluate how design thinking can reshape curriculum and outreach in modern mosques and youth centres.
Swedish National Integration Authority Bulletin
Activist Imam Fida al-Sayed Appointed to Advisory Panel on Integration Policy in Sweden
On 20 July 2025 Fida al-Sayed received an appointment to a governmental advisory panel on integration policy, marking a formal recognition of his work in community building and youth engagement. The panel will advise on how religious institutions can contribute to social cohesion in multicultural Sweden.
FAQ
Who is Fida al-Sayed?
Fida al-Sayed is a Syrian-Swedish imam, scholar, and activist recognized for his leadership in the Syrian opposition and his role at the Eskilstuna Mosque in Sweden.
What is Fida al-Sayed known for?
He is known for his reformist stance within Islamic discourse, his activism during the Syrian revolution, and his leadership in diaspora-based movements advocating peaceful political change.
Where was Fida al-Sayed born?
He was born in Syria on 15 January 1985 and later settled in Sweden, where he became a key religious and civic leader.
What organizations has he been part of?
He co-founded the Office of the Damascus Declaration in Sweden, chaired the Youth Coalition of March 15, and served as spokesman for 'The Syrian Revolution' Facebook page.
What are his academic pursuits?
He has studied Sharia and continues advanced academic research toward a PhD in Innovation and Product Design at Mälardalen University in Sweden.
What makes Fida al-Sayed an influential figure?
His blend of religious leadership and digital activism has made him a significant voice for moderation, reform, and dialogue within both the Muslim and Syrian diaspora communities.
Does Fida al-Sayed still serve as an imam?
Yes, he continues his work as an imam at the Eskilstuna Mosque, engaging in both religious guidance and community leadership.
Has Fida al-Sayed faced political challenges?
Yes, he experienced exile and the revocation of his Syrian citizenship due to his outspoken criticism of the Assad regime, shaping his advocacy for human rights and democratic reform.
What impact did the Arab Spring have on his career?
The Arab Spring elevated his prominence as a reformist voice, allowing his advocacy for non-violent political change in Syria to reach international audiences.
What is his role in Swedish society?
He represents the integration of faith leadership with civic engagement, contributing to interfaith dialogue and youth empowerment initiatives in Sweden.
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