Born in Saudi Arabia, of Pakistani decent and raised in the United States, Moniza Khokhar always was concerned about Muslim issues. She attended Drew University for her undergraduate degree in economics and political science.

Post-graduation, Moniza went to work for Azizah Magazine and Routledge Journal: Studies in Conflict and Terrorism while earning a master’s degree in Islamic Culture Studies from Columbia University. Most of her writing focused on the Muslim American diaspora, and she realized that there was a demand for more positive stories about Muslims and a need for a neutral platform for Muslim Americans to discuss issues and celebrate their achievements.

Moniza was laying the groundwork for a new venture. In 2008, she made publishing news by launching her own magazine: elan: The Guide to Global Muslim Culture, now an online publication (www.elanthemag.com). Elan has developed into an online phenomenon, where young professional Muslims from around the globe log on to share, celebrate, and discuss Muslim culture. Articles offer national and international news, culture, politics, entertainment, even has a special department called "WTFatwa?" Commentary from elan has appeared in Huffington Post, the Houston Chronicle, and USA Today. Moniza has appeared on ART’s “What’s Happening,” an Arab-American television talk show, and Radio Tahrir.

Moniza comes from a long line of businessmen and women, all leaders in their respective fields, and she is taking her place among them. Elan is only the first step: Moniza expects her two-year-old company, Wahid Media Ventures, to provide a variety of media outlets for young Muslims by expanding into radio, television, and print or online publishing. So far, the creation of elan has been her greatest satisfaction.

Elan: The Global Guide to Muslim Culture

Facebook: facebook.com/moniza.khokhar