what does the name spentem mean?
SPENTEM is a portmanteau that combines three words at the core of our moral leadership institute​
SPIRIT
ENTERPRISE
EMPATHY
The SP in Spentem represents spirit. By spirit we don't mean your soul, rather we mean grounding your identity through understanding yourself in relation to others. This is an integral part of personal growth. Spentem uses strategies that address different aspects of ourselves, our beliefs, our flaws and our overall personalities to help us push forward in becoming strong leaders.
The ENT in Spentem represents enterprise. Physical fitness, healthy living, having a food IQ, chivalry, and entrepreneurship are the cornerstones of enterprise-based living. Spentem wants you to be fit, eat smart, be brave, practice virtue and strive for personal excellence. True leaders serve others by choice and that can only happen if one learns to be independent.
The EM in Spentem represents empathy. Learning about the lifestyles, and perspectives of others is a hallmark of enlightened leaders. Regardless of divergent opinions, a leader should learn how to practice restraint, thoughtfulness, and high-level contemplation. This only occurs through an education in "the other."
leadership institute for aspiring legends
My name is Taymullah Abdur-Rahman! Welcome to my leadership institute, where we experiment with ourselves, and our surroundings to discover new ways to be honorable, inspire others, and change the world.
I'm a man who grew up in Roxbury during Hip-Hop's golden era and came of age during the 1990s. I've had quite a few changing fortunes in my life that include gracing magazine covers and touring the world but also scrambling for street money and hitting rock bottom. During those times, I've been acquainted with many legendary personalities from street icons and entertainment stars to Harvard professors and religious holy men. After meeting, mingling, listening and learning from them, I've realized that all ambitious leaders possess the two traits that I call the master keys of success: courage and discipline.
Today, I'm committed to sharing all the life lessons and experiences I've learned on my journey from pop star and hustler to religious leader and educator so you can find your vertical way and become legendary. After all the books are read and the lectures are attended, it's not what you learn, it's who you become that matters.
Rev Patrick Reyes, Ph.D.
Dean, Auburn Seminary
What sets Spentem apart from other education leaders is its mission reaches far beyond the academy and its work reverberates in the local community, inciting practical action towards the development of global citizens.
Honorable Milton Wright, Judge ret., Boston Municipal Court
It is with the highest regard that I trust Dr. Tay to be included in the righteous assault on humanity's ugly qualities. Spentem is a refreshing take on teaching personal integrity.
Dudley Rose, Associate Dean ret., Harvard Divinity School
Taymullah Abdur-Rahman is clearly a person and educator who has navigated diverse worlds and cultures in a way that leads those he works with forward toward service and healing.
Dr. Robert Macy, Chair, International Trauma Center
I have witnessed Dr. Abdur-Rahman’s effectiveness in diverting troubled young people to accountability and responsibility.
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A podcast about the stories of people who changed their lives
Imam Taymullah helped my wife and I to navigate an extremely difficult conflict we were facing alone, with kindness and righteousness
N.N.
Imam Tay has been an incredible source of wisdom and guidance in my life. His teachings have helped me strengthen my Islamic identity, embrace the responsibilities of manhood and take full accountability for my actions. During a difficult time, while I was unemployed, his support provided me with clarity, resilience and faith-centered perspective that kept me grounded. What makes his strategies impactful is his ability to blend faith principles with secular behavioral therapy. I am deeply grateful for his support.
N. Harris
I met Dr. Taymullah at the lowest point in my life. His teachings and mentorship have been a transformative blessing. He supported me through my divorce, and provided marriage counseling for my second marriage. From career advice, to navigating my higher education, and the internal struggles that seem impossible to share; his multi-dimensional experience has been a great source of guidance for me.
Mazin A.
I'm so glad Dr. Irvin Scott introduced me to Imam Taymullah as a resource for learning about restorative justice programs. He has been a great mentor to me throughout my educational and professional journey.
M.H.
Imam Tay's focus on restorative practices for conflicts gave me a better mindset. He is truly a community servant.
Bushra H.
When I met Dr. Tay I immediately knew he was someone I wanted to learn from and understand better .He is someone I deeply respect, trust, and support. His vision and integrity continue to inspire me.
Wanci N.
Through Dr. Tay's advice and mentorship I have experienced tremendous personal and professional growth. His programs, have significantly contributed to my success as a business owner. On a personal level, I have developed greater integrity, grown socially, and deepened my faith.
Trevon W.
