Volume 1, Issue 4

June 2012

Opening Message from the Secretary General: Inside this issue:

I wish to congratulate the newly elected members of the local Special Edition: A Historic Beginning to authorities in Wales, particularly the Muslims. National Interfaith Week in Wales 2 It has been just over 10 years since MCW invited the leaders of all Special Feature: The Forgotten Revival 4 political parties to address the Muslim community and present 3 their parties ethos. At the time despite being 73% of the ethnic Special Feature: The Rise of Muslim 4 community, Muslims did not have a single counsellor in the local Chaplains authority, but it is heartening to note that in this year in Council elections in Cardiff alone there were 18 Muslim candidates Success for Muslim Councilors 4 representing all 4 political parties and in Wales on a whole there Building Relationships: A Brighter Fu- were around 25 Muslim candidates of which 9 have become 5 counsellors. This is a historic step for the Muslim community ture for the Young People of Cardiff showing their maturity and their vision to serve all communities MCW Initiative: Get Job Fit in 2012 7 making an important contribution to the civic and political life of our country. Education: Renewed funding enables 8 expansion of unique scholarship oppor- My request to the individuals who have lost election, you can and tunities at Cardiff University will make a great contribution so continue to be involved in the political process as you have the enthusiasm, vision, ability and FOSIS National Student Qur‟an Com- 9 commitment so please continue to channel it. May Allah SWT guide petition (NSQC) Wales & West Eng- you, guard you, and give you the courage and wisdom to make the land right decisions for our country and its people. Special Feature: Welsh Solidarity for 10 Saleem Kidwai Editor: MCW Interfaith Event Photographs 12

Saira Chaudhry

Letter from the Editor: Graphics: th Suffiya Hasan Alhumdulillah, we have now bought to you the 4 ers and sisters, for justice and for the removal of edition of Reflections. We apologise for its late re- their oppressors. From the plumes of destruction lease but hope it‟s worth the wait. that we witness in the distance, deep down amaz- Contributors: ingly resilient and dignified people are emerging, With the grace, mercy and blessings of Allah (SWT), spurred on by their faith to re-write the books of Abdul Azim Ahmed it‟s been an amazing and inspiring few months - the history and put an end to their era of tyranny once rise of Muslim chaplaincy and councillors in Wales, Mohammed Alomgir and for all. May the eyes of cowards never find rest the launch of Citizens UK brighter futures campaign, Ahmed in sleep! new MCW initiatives being born and the successful Bethan Grant completion of iLead Wales‟s pilot year, the first ever We pray this edition of Reflections is an insightful Omar Arabi Islamic Leadership Course in Wales for the youth read. If you would like to contribute to future edi- aiming to empower and develop a future generation tions of the newsletter, please feel free to get in Dr. Sophie Gilliat- of community leaders - all to read about in this is- touch with us at [email protected] Ray sue. Let us also not forget the people of Syria in our Sahar Al-Faifi prayers - to pray for the victory of our fellow broth- Saira Chaudhry

Acknowledgement:

Saleem Kidwai Broadway House, Broadway, Cardiff, CF24 1PU Tel: 029 2034 4555 Fax: 029 2049 2860 Website: muslimcouncilwales.org.uk E-mail: [email protected] Page 2 Volume 1, Issue 4

Special Edition A Historic Beginning to National Interfaith Week in Wales "The event illuminated the way in which faith plays a part in the fabric of our society, and what it can offer to the believer and non-believer alike.” Saleem Kidwai, General Secretary of MCW

The Muslim Council of Wales was pleased to launch National Interfaith Week in Wales with a historic inter- faith event between the Anglican Church and Muslim faith in the Na- tional Museum of Wales on Tuesday 22nd of November 2011.

The Archbishop of Wales Dr Barry Morgan and Sheikh Ibrahim Mogra addressed an audience of over three hundred on the topic of „Believing in Faith‟. The events attendees in- cluded the First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones who also spoke on the importance of interfaith to the Welsh Assembly. Representatives from The Board of Deputies of British Jews were also present. begin to form relationships between Likewise Sheikh Ibrahim Mogra is a Both speakers shared their own those present. graduate of a Dar al-Uloom Institute experiences of the value of faith to of Higher Education, Holcombe, and The Archbishop Dr Barry Morgan has society today, and how partnership al-Azhar University, Cairo. As such, led a distinguished career as leader and co-operation between religions he is one of the leading Imams in of the Church in Wales, contributing can empower the individual and Britain today. He balances numer- to public debate on the role of faith society to address global and local ous roles speaking on Islam in the in society, social injustice and many injustices. Following the talks, at- media alongside dedicated interfaith other key issues. He has always tendees were invited to a three work and pastoral duties to many strived towards greater openness course meal to discuss the talk and Muslims across the country. between faith communities in Wales. Saleem Kidwai, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Wales, com- mented that "the event illuminated the way in which faith plays a part in the fabric of our society, and what it can offer to the believer and non- believer alike.”

Saleem Kidwai concluded by saying that "Muslims and Christians make up over half the world's population, and Islam and Christianity have a long and glorious history both glob- ally and locally in Wales. Interfaith events such as this are not simply a luxury but a necessity to ensure that we all take part in creating a cohe- sive and close society based on friendship and trust”. Page 3 Volume 1, Issue 4

The Forgotten Revival Special Feature For those familiar with the history of largest contin- Wales, the phrase 'Welsh Revival' of gent came from 1904-1905 evokes very powerful Yemen, specifi- images. It describes an era of in- cally the Aden. tense religious fervour amongst It was esti- Welsh Christian communities. The mated there revival began with smaller move- were about ments in towns such as Ammanford 5,000 Muslims but soon spread until all came to a living in Cardiff climax in 1904 as key preachers, during this notably Evan Roberts, went on tours time, a large across Wales. Roberts and others community by spoke powerfully about the impor- the standards tance of repenting all sin, publically of the day. professing their faith in Christ and The adherence opening oneself to the transforma- of these men to tive power of the Holy Spirit. It is their faith how- estimated that over 100,000 con- ever was some- Opening of Peel Street Mosque verts were received during the pe- thing that con- riod of a single year into Welsh cerned the religious leaders of the gether. His diplomatic success is churches, including greater religios- time, and so Sheikh Ahmed ibn demonstrated by the attendance of ity and piety among pre-existing Mustafa al-Alawi (founder of the the Mayor of Cardiff at the re- congregations. Allawi Tariqa), sent his student opening of Peel Street mosque after Shaykh Abdullah Ali al-Hakimi, a it was destroyed in the Blitz of The Welsh Revival is an important Yemeni scholar, to Britain to ad- World War 2. part of Welsh history and it takes its dress the issue. place in a backdrop of other Chris- Kevin Little, a social scientist, car- tian revivals in Britain and Europe Sheikh al-Hakimi was erudite ried out a survey of Loudon Square during the nineteenth and twentieth scholar of Islam, but also a gifted in 1944, a key area in Tiger Bay. He century. speaker and a natural diplomat. His describes the Muslim community piety and knowledge led to him be- below: - There is however a forgotten re- ing chosen as a muqaddim within vival, one that is not included in the “Mention should be made again of his tariqa. He was by profession a history books but still influenced the the strong body of Islamic faith. The merchant and a businessman, and future direction of Wales. adherents of this creed not only earned his own livelihood while de- carry out their religious and ritualis- It was however an Islamic Revival, voting time and energy to his faith. tic obligations with more fervour that swept across South Wales dur- In the space of a few short years, than the rest of the community, but ing the 1930s-40s. It was led by a Abdullah Ali al-Hakimi successfully are correspondingly surer both of single man, Abdullah Ali al-Hakimi, transformed the local Muslim com- their creed and of themselves. The and its influence is still important munity in Cardiff (and to a certain various prohibitions enjoined by the today. extent, South Shields, Liverpool and prophet are on the whole rigorously Cardiff during this era was a bus- Hull). He established a mosque at observed, as are Ramadan and tling port city, one of the largest in Peel Street (most likely, the first in other fasts and festivals. In the the UK. The first million pound Wales), regular Quran study classes celebration of the latter, ritual dress cheque in the world was written in for children and adults alike, created is worn by a large number of the Cardiff's Coal Exchange, evidence of a number of welfare services for the Arabs and other Moslems” the size and prominence of the port. local community. Al-Hakimi dis- This description is one that stands in Thousands of Muslims working on played an impressive ability to en- contrast to the Muslim community ships found themselves in Cardiff, gage with the political system by prior to the arrival of al-Hakimi. sometimes for short stays and negotiating the establishment of the There is much more detail still sometimes for longer. They would Wales' first Muslim burial site in Ely needed about his life and works, be in between employment on ships - something the Muslim community and how his influence still survives - usually as firemen. Some decided in South Wales still benefits from. in Cardiff today. Regardless, it is to abandon the difficult life at sea Al-Hakimi's work also extended to clear that the Muslim community of and make a home in Cardiff. Most of the wider community. He had a Wales is indebted to his efforts and these Muslims lived in the Docks close relationship with politicians, leadership. His legacy is survived area which became known as Tiger the media and local leaders from today by Noor al-Islam Mosque and Bay. They came from diverse re- other faiths, holding annual dinners South Wales Islamic Centre, both of gions of the world, Somalis, Indians where he would bring them all to- which trace their lineage to the Peel and Malays. By far however the Street Mosque. Page 4 Volume 1, Issue 4

Special Feature The Rise of Muslim Chaplains

“The last decade has seen Muslim Chap- lains come to prominence in public life and Success for we can certainly expect to see more Muslim growth and development in the next few years, especially in Wales” Councillors

Chaplaincy has traditionally been as- Metropolitan's Laura Jones is Wales' sociated with the Christian tradition. first serving female university Muslim The Chaplain would provide spiritual, chaplain. Cardiff Metropolitan has lead The Muslim Council of Wales believes emotional and pastoral support to the way in faith provision, having re- local politics are a key part of our those in need. Recently however, the cently been rated one of the best uni- nation‟s democracy, and for govern- role has seen diversification with versities according to the International ment at large to work well, citizens Chaplains catering for almost all faith Student Barometer, especially for their must be engaged at the grassroots traditions and indeed none. outstanding faith provision. Both level. Sameh and Laura are graduates of the The Muslim Council of Wales is proud Markfield Institute of Higher Educa- It is with this in mind that the Muslim to see the growth of Muslim chaplains tion's Muslim Chaplaincy course. Council of Wales is pleased at figures in Wales and recognises the important Shaykh Mohsin Elbetagi, Imam of that show a record number of Muslim role Chaplaincy has to play in shaping Swansea University Mosque also pro- candidates standing for council elec- our society. vides key chaplaincy duties in Swan- tions as well as a record number of There are currently a number of Mus- sea University. The Muslim Council of elected Muslim councillors across lim chaplains in prisons. These include Wales is hopeful that other universities Wales. Shaykh Kamal Idreesy and Shaykh in Wales will recognise the importance Abdel-Ati, serving prisoners across of Muslim Chaplains and begin to in- South Wales. In addition, Shaykh troduce them. Foreed and Shaykh Abdul-Muhit are “The Leader of a Muslim Chaplains can also be found in based in Park Prison. They provide hospitals, schools and even in com- people is their care, attention and spiritual support to mercial locations such as Birmingham Muslim inmates, helping them to re- NEC. Amina Shabaan and Fehmida Servant” form and reconsider their options in Ahmed currently provide chaplaincy light of religious guidance. Chaplaincy services in hospitals in South Wales. does not end there however, as Faith Prophet Muhammad Research on the role of Muslim Chap- in the Future, a Muslim Council of lains in the UK has been conducted by (SAW) Wales project, provides community the Centre for the Study of Islam in chaplaincy to former prisoners upon the UK at Cardiff University, with a their release. Support after completion publication on the findings of their The results show Welsh Muslims are of a prison sentence is seen as vital to research due to published very soon. both engaged and participating in integrate the individual back into soci- The researchers, Dr Sophie Gilliat-Ray civil society. Islam instructs its fol- ety. Faith in the Future has played a and Dr Mansur Ali, interviewed dozens lowers to take an active role in their key role in helping reduce rates of re- of Muslim chaplains in the UK. The local community, to care for offence and offering support to the research was conducted in association most vulnerable individuals. Shaykh neighbours and that a Muslim should with St Michael's College, a seminary Yacoub Kutkut, Shaykh Mujahid Ali, not sleep content while his neighbour specialising in chaplaincy studies. All Shaykh Ali Omar and Mufti Javed all is hungry. We believe the increase of of which means Cardiff is certainly provided community chaplaincy to Muslim councillors in Wales is simply leading the way in academic study of former inmates through Faith in the one of many signs of Welsh Muslims chaplaincy in Britain. Future. implementing such Islamic teachings. The Muslim Council of Wales has sup- Muslim Chaplains at university are ported the growth of Muslim In total, over two dozen Muslim also becoming increasingly common, chaplains by sponsoring individuals to councillors ran in Wales and nine equally so in Wales. Cardiff University complete a Certificate in were elected, mainly across South and Cardiff Metropolitan University Muslim Chaplaincy at the Markfield Wales. both introduced Muslim chaplains in Institute of Higher Education. 2011. Dr Sameh Otri serves as Muslim We pray for their success and hope Chaplain to Cardiff University, based The last decade has seen Muslim they fulfil the responsibility of leader- at Dar al-Isra Community Centre on Chaplains come to prominence in pub- ship to the best of their ability. As Wyeverne Road. He enjoys a positive lic life and we can certainly expect to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be working relationship with the univer- see more growth and development in upon him) taught: “the leader of a sity's Anglican, Methodist and Catholic the next few years, especially in people is their servant” Chaplains and serves the needs of Wales. nearly 3000 Muslim students. Cardiff Page 5 Volume 1, Issue 4

A Brighter Future for the Young People Building of Cardiff Relationships

Citizens UK is the national home of ance will always be stronger because single listening campaign hinged on community organising. Their goal is of the time people took to under- asking the question „What is putting to build the power of communities, stand one another and their shared pressure on young people in Car- who then work together for the goal of working for the common good diff‟? The aim was to have 1000 common good. Citizens UK only of all. From this, change is possible. conversations with young people exists so far in London and Milton across the city to get a true repre- Before a Cardiff Citizens alliance is Keynes. In London it is has been sentation of what was causing the set up we must ensure there is both running for over 20 years, splitting strain on our young people. This a need and want for it. Therefore we into North, East South and West question has been asked all over decided to run a smaller campaign, London Citizens, made up of bor- Cardiff, participants from iLead generously funded by the High Sher- oughs in the city. Wales, the Somali community, St iff of South Glamorgan, Teilo‟s Church in Wales High School, Roger Thomas. We fo- Bishop of Llandaff high school, Car- cused on young people diff University, „Save the Children‟, and in a condensed time Mary Immaculate High School, to slot, to illustrate the name a few, have been asking this process of community question in their own institutions and organising to those who in their own communities. were already intrigued. Within iLead Wales and MCW, we „Brighter Futures‟ aims to have been working closely with Saira build relationships be- Chaudhry and Abdul-Azim Ahmed on tween young people from this project and during February, different civil society “Brighter Futures aims to build re- In the past few years dele- gates from Cardiff have at- lationships between young people from dif- tended London Citizens As- ferent civil society institutions across the semblies. Here, they watched ordinary people, living in Lon- city, train them in community leadership don; tackle the problems that were causing strain on their skills, and support them to take action to- lives. They watched as people held politicians accountable to gether on local issues of injustice” the issues that they had the power to change; making the Bethan Grant, Trainee Community Organiser, streets a safe place to be, ending child detention, imple- Brighter Futures menting a living wage to com- bat the levels of poverty that fami- with them, some of the younger institutions across the city, train lies face when trying to survive on a delegates of iLead attended training them in community leadership skills, minimum wage income in London. on how to run a listening campaign. and support them to take action to- Citizens UK form alliances on rela- With the energy buzzing they started gether on local issues of injustice - tional power - creating relationships their „listening‟ straight away. Taking across faith, denominational, genera- and links within your own church, advantage of a sunny Sunday after- tional, racial and neighbourhood di- school, university, mosque, trade noon in Cardiff Bay they managed to vides - to build a brighter future for unions, strengthens that organisa- have over 200 conversations with all young people in the city. tion. Continuing this, in conjunction people in the bay, each conversation with other civil society institutions, The process began with listening answering the question – „What do finding common ground and forming campaigns. Each institution ran you think is putting pressure on a relationship based on understand- theirs differently depending on the young people in Cardiff?‟. ing one another creates a powerful unique set up of their school, com- Continued on page 6: base to form an alliance. This alli- munity group, college etc, but every Page 6 Volume 1, Issue 4

Article continued from page 5 Building Relationships On the 22nd of March we held the Launch of Brighter Futures. Here 80 representatives from the organisa- tions taking part gathered to discuss the results of their listening cam- iLead Wales just completed its pilot year with over 40 delegates paign and share testimonies on the of varied ages and experiences going through the programme. issues that had struck them. Al- though the stories themselves dif- The style and set up of iLead allows a very easy journey of fered from all over the City, they learning and the separation of age groups ensures that all mate- centered around four main themes - rial is delivered in a way that will engage with the delegates and transport, safety on the street, dis- be properly understood. The year was strategically broken down crimination and job opportunities for into 3 semesters each with their own unique learning outcomes the young. – self development, engagement with the wider community and The launch was a huge success in leadership. our campaign, bringing together people who shared the same ideas iLead Wales was initiated in order to develop the youth into lead- but perhaps not the same neighbor- ers. The course is aimed at arming them with resources, meth- hood, faith or race. People were odologies and concepts of thinking and strategy that would allow encouraged to talk to those they them to benefit their communities and achieve their goals. The didn‟t know, to discuss the issues content of the course is designed to stretch their capabilities and but also, to discuss solutions. From expose them to areas that they would normally encounter in these conversations, our agenda of later life. Here is what one delegate had to say after completing winnable and workable asks was the iLead course: born. This is what was carried with us as we spoke to council leaders, “Before I took part in this programme, I had a lack including Plaid Cymru‟s Councilor of motivation, low self-esteem and no confidence in Neil McEvoy and Labour‟s Councilor Heather Joyce and the public over myself. After having participated in every session, I the past few weeks leading up to the was able to increase my confidence, increase my self election on May 3rd. We negotiated with council leaders to take the -esteem and the contents within some of the ses- young people of Cardiff into consid- sions, taught me all about self-motivation, but over- eration, to take the pressures they all the ILEAD programme taught me how to become face seriously and to use the power they hold to secure them a brighter a great leader, to myself, the Muslims and the com- future. We didn‟t stop there, we munity. I can personally say that I am proud to be spoke to members of the public, encouraging them to use their vote an ILEAD delegate, for everything this course and its on 3rd May and take the „Young Peo- tutors have taught me. As well as learning, the envi- ple‟s Agenda‟ into consideration. ronment was very friendly; there were many team Although many of the participants were too young to vote, they are building activities to participate in within each ses- still taking part in the democracy sion, which made learning about each of the topics they are living in and asking those who could vote to take that opportu- fun. I was also able to make new friends and enjoy nity to have a say in Cardiff‟s future. my experience from day 1. It’s very hard to believe The future is certainly bright as the that the season is already over. I would definitely recently elected Councilor Heather recommend this course to anyone who wishes to ei- Joyce agreed to meet our brighter futures youth again to discuss the ther develop themselves personally, or even to learn implementation of the solutions how to become a great leader, this would definitely further, helping to build a brighter future for the young people of Car- be the right course for them” diff. The programme will run again in September 2012 with the application and For more information of Citizens UK, recruitment process beginning at the end of May 2012. please visit: http:// www.citizensuk.org/ For more information or to register interest, contact: [email protected] Page 7 Volume 1, Issue 4

Get Job Fit in 2012! MCW Initiative

The beginning of this year saw the sales it is about targets, motivation launch of a new community initiative and resilience, in administration it is Sample CV 1 to help the South Wales Muslim Com- about attention to detail, accuracy munity into employment, in conjunc- and organisation so to include these I would add the cherry on top tion with Muslim Council of Wales words and other relevant ones as of a Cherry Bakewell cake and Dar Ul Isra Community Centre much as possible. He also advised and Mosque. It was the brain child of using all the online job boards like I worked in a team Mohammed Alamgir Ahmed, a Re- Monster, Jobsite, CWJobs and then cruitment Professional, who currently following up applications with a phone I would sometimes train new works as regional manager at one of call to the Recruitment Agency or people South Wales largest IT recruitment Employer asking „what did you think Consultancy Company, who recog- of my CV?‟ rather than „have you nised that too many people were received my CV?‟. The open question missing out on potential job opportu- forces them to bring out and look at Sample CV 2 nities due to a lack of understanding the CV and respond (which might just of the recruitment process. His many catch their eye) whilst the latter al- I had complete responsibility years of experience in the industry lows them to just say yes and brush for the final decoration and gave him insight into how best to you off. quality check of a market approach job hunting and how best The final part of the workshop was leading brand of Kipling to improve the chances of the poten- cakes tial candidate. interview techniques and what really stood out from this part was how It was specifically designed at those important preparation was, Moham- I was a key member of a high individuals made redundant, post med explained a recent survey said performance team that con- graduates who are looking for their the average time spent by successful tinuously surpassed produc- first step onto the career ladder and applicants on preparation was 3 hours tion targets those who are new to the country per interview. He also made it clear and don‟t know how best to search that an interview was just the em- My knowledge, expertise and and apply for work. ployer qualifying the applicants ex- exceptional communication perience, attitude, characteristics, skills were used to train and The workshop was held at Cardiff skills and background in line with the mentor new starters University and attended by a large job vacancy so it was vital that the number of mixed individuals from all applicant understood the job inside of the above segments of the com- out and then gave responses that had We asked Mohammed on his munity – Mohammed was able to use synergy with the job. He gave an thoughts on the day; “it was a great his expertise and knowledge of the example of someone interviewing for turn out and the people really process to break it down into 3 key an office administration job and the seemed to get value from it, I tried areas: CV Writing, Job Hunting and interviewer posing the open question Interview Tips. to keep it as simple and relevant as „tell me about yourself; possible and I know it was a lot for Mohammed gave the participants a Bad answer – I love shopping and people to take in so I pray I didn‟t very unique insight into what a CV have a passion for Bollywood movies, rush as I have a tendency to talk should be used for and how best to I also like relaxing and watching TV. too fast, must be the 3 litres of cof- structure it – he explained that a CV fee I drink per day”. is a selling tool so every word used Appropriate answer – I am a highly should be purely to sell the applicant. organised person with an eye for de- If you would like to attend the next He gave a great example to demon- tail and accuracy, I like maintaining workshop or would like Moham- strate what he meant then asked control of situations when I can but med‟s help on your own job hunt he „who would you ask in for an inter- am not afraid to delegate when nec- has offered his support to anyone view?‟ essary. My ambitions are to become and asked them to get in touch – the best at what I do and lead from [email protected] After discussing what the best con- the front. tent for a CV is and how to write the key achievements he moved onto job In Mohammed‟s own comical way he hunting which was a real eye opener was able to get the point across to all for everyone. He explained how po- those who attended and the feedback tential employees and Recruitment was great with some people com- Correction:- Consultants initially shortlisted CV‟s plaining it should have been longer. It was bought to our attention that based on key words so it was vital to Mohammed also did a follow up ses- page 9 of the last edition of the include key words needed for the job sion on email which was a great help newsletter made some inferences you are applying for. He said to iden- as many people emailed their new to sufis which was incorrect and not tify the key word, for example in revised CV to him for review. based on facts. We apologise for this grave error, it was never in- tended to cause any ill feelings or incorrect perceptions and we ask for forgiveness for this mistake. Apologies. Page 8 Volume 1, Issue 4

Education Renewed funding enables expansion of unique scholarship opportunities at Cardiff University

The Islam-UK Centre, based at sion as they engage with Muslim “Mr Jameel’s generosity Cardiff University is delighted to clients and in time to provide a “blue enables in-depth schol- announce the expansion of the -print” for social services provision in Cardiff University Jameel Scholar- the UK to improve social policy. “My arship and unique ships from September 2012. The research has allowed me to work teaching for Muslims generous scholarship scheme, closely with members of the local which started in 2009, enables the Muslim community in Cardiff which and non-Muslims alike, very best students to go to Cardiff I‟ve really enjoyed and I hope that particularly in the areas – those who have the intellect and the research really focuses on the determination to apply their issues of relevance to the community of education, religious knowledge for the benefit of Mus- which in time will make a difference” leadership, inter- lim communities in the UK, and to said Rosalind Warden. promote better understanding of generational and family The Islam-UK Centre is the only one Islam in wider society. in the world which specialises in Is- relations and British Through the support of Mr Yousef lam in the UK with many of its Jameel, the expanded Cardiff Uni- alumni going on to work in commu- Muslim Arts and Heri- versity Jameel Scholarship nity organisations, the voluntary sector, legal services and education. tage.” Scheme will now offer three more The Centre‟s Director Sophie Gilliat- years of support to three fully Dr. Sophie Gilliat-Ray, Ray said: “Mr Jameel‟s generosity funded PhD students and 12 MA enables in-depth scholarship and Director of Islam students. This builds on the suc- unique teaching for Muslims and non Centre UK cess of the scholarship scheme -Muslims alike, particularly in the which has already seen two PhD areas of education, religious leader- students and nine MA students ship, inter-generational and family study at the Islam-UK Centre. relations and British Muslim Arts and You can keep up to date with all of Heritage. We are immensely grateful Islam-UK Centre‟s activities by sign- Current PhD Jameel Scholar Rosa- to Mr Jameel for his generosity in ing up to their mailing list here:- lind Warden is researching Social supporting students at Cardiff – his Services provision for Muslims in support will make a huge difference https://www.surveys.cardiff.ac.uk/ Britain using Cardiff as a case not only to the students, but in the iukccontacts study. She is aiming to highlight long-term to Muslims throughout the issues and challenges within UK.” mainstream social services provi- Page 9 Volume 1, Issue 4

Supported FOSIS National Student Qur’an by MCW Competition (NSQC) Wales & West England

The Federation of Student Islamic The competition allows students to Societies (FOSIS) aims to represent compete, learn and most impor- and serve over 90,000 Muslim tantly discover the sweetness of the students throughout the UK and Qur'an and their great potential in Eire. FOSIS organises conferences, memorising it. The categories varied speaker tours and many other high from the art of recitation, Tajweed quality activities throughout the where no memorisation is required, year, which has given the Muslim to the memorisation of a quarter of student community many opportuni- the Quran – every level is repre- ties to learn about Islam as well as sented. to ask important questions based on In Wales this year, NSQC was held their theological concerns. This has in Cardiff and Bangor in collabora- led to the strengthening of many tion with the universities Islamic individuals. Societies (ISocs) on Saturday 17th of In the aim of improving our service March and Saturday 24th of March. first step: their participation in this to Muslim students, FOSIS brain- Alhamduillah, with 30 participants, NSQC. stormed a way where Muslim stu- the competition was very successful. dents would individually be ad- The FOSIS National Student Qur‟an The prizes for all categories grate- vanced in their own personal jour- Competition (NSQC) aims to get fully were sponsored by Muslim ney of Islam through the organisa- students closer to the Qu‟ran, its Council of Wales (MCW) and given tion of a student Qur‟an competition. meanings and its stories, motivating to the winners as follow: students to develop a habit of recit- We all know how difficult it is for a Brothers ing and memorising the Qur'an on a student to study hard. For example: 1- 1/4 Qur'an: Ali Abu Hashim, Ban- daily basis. medicine, maths, engineering, eco- gor University nomics, etc. eventually earn you a “The Quran Competition is a 2- Al-Baqarah: Isa Ashworth, Ban- distinction by doing well in exams great motivation for Muslim gor University and essays, and, at the same time, Students to be productive & 3- Juz Amma: Zulqarnain Majid, you can make considerable effort to active in their student life. It University of Bristol learn how to recite and memorise inspires them towards achieving 4- Tajweed: Mukhtar, University of the Qur‟an. By launching this com- a noble goal, which demands Bristol petition, FOSIS is inviting Muslim action from them, and great self students to begin this thousand mile -discipline!” Sisters: journey through the Qur‟an with the 1- Al-Baqarh: Marwa El-Gaby, Car-

diff University 2- Juz Amma: Azyan Kamarudin, “The competition allows students to com- Cardiff University 3- Tajweed: Nur Ili Nadiah Zulkiple, pete, learn and most importantly dis- Cardiff University cover the sweetness of the Qur'an and MCW was proud to sponsor NSQC their great potential in memorising it” and looks forward to further collabo- ration as the year progresses. Sahar Al-Faifi. FOSIS Wales & West Chair Page 10 Volume 1, Issue 4

Special Feature Welsh Solidarity for Syria

The freedom and dignity of Syria has been compromised for 41 years; it was compromised so the country can be dominated by one family, by one party, so the people live in fear. Due to recent events the family name has become infamous across the world. It was Hafiz Assad, the father of Bashar Assad, who through a coup took power in 1970. He led with an iron fist and increased re- pression, through a vast web of police informers and agents. In the 80‟s, the people showed signs of a popular uprising against the regime. The response was brutal and un- precedented, the whole country was stifled and an entire city was demol- ished and its people massacred. Reports vary as to how many were massacred in , 45,000 is often quoted. The Syrian Human Rights 97.6% of the votes in a referendum hunger or poverty, but for dignity Committee estimates “over 25,000” without another candidate. Like his and freedom. Although economic or between 30,000 to 40,000 people father, Bashar showed a disregard reform will come about if the Assad were killed. The attack has been to human rights and continued an monopoly on businesses and the described as one of "the single era of corruption and economic Syrian economy is broken. Rami deadliest acts by any Arab govern- lapses. Any political opponents were Makhouf, is the maternal cousin of ment against its own people in the routinely tortured and imprisoned. Bashar Assad, and according to modern Middle East”. There was reason to believe he the Financial Times he controls as would implement political reforms, much as 60% of the Syrian econ- as he was young, liberal and re- omy through his web of business ceived a western education in the interests that include telecommuni- UK. Although at the beginning of his cations, oil and gas, construction, presidency he released many politi- banking, airlines and retail. No for- cal prisoners, but within a year se- eign company can do business curity crackdowns commenced on in Syria without his consent and any political opposition or reform. partnership. He is a part of Bashar Assad's inner circle, the regime has The revolution which began on 15th a strong monopoly on what people March 2011 was peaceful; it re- can do and any form of entrepre- mained peaceful for many months. Abdulhadi Arwani, who was invited neurship is seriously inhibited. Pockets within the be- by Welsh Solidarity for Syria (WSS) gan to defect and join what is now After over 13 months, the statistics to Cardiff on 24th April 2012, was called the „‟ (FSA). are staggering and it beggars belief only 16 years old when he wit- These soldiers and civilian volun- that nothing practical has been done nessed this massacre. He was lucky teers made it their duty to protect by the international community to as he was able to escape Syria and the civilians and protestors from put a stop to the killing, torture and has now lived in the UK for 17 attacks by the Syrian regime. The persecution. As of 29th April 2012: years. FSA defectors refused to turn their 14,028 have been killed. Of them In 2000, the constitution was swiftly guns on their own people and to 967 children, 904 women and amended after the death of Hafiz follow such orders from their gener- 12,102 men Assad to reduce the mandatory als and leaders. Many soldiers have More than 44,500 refugees in Tur- minimum age of the president from been executed simply because they key, Lebanon and Jordan 40 to 34. This paved the way for could no longer stay within the More than 65,000 missing his son, Bashar, to take the helm, ranks of an army who instead of More than 212,000 protestors in- who was 34 at the time. In May protecting their own people are kill- carcerated 2007, Bashar was approved as ing them and forcing them to flee president for another seven-year their homes and cities. The regime has transgressed all term, with the official result of boundaries and has committed war The popular uprising was not due to Page 11 Volume 1, Issue 4 crimes. A humanitarian crisis is tak- terranean sea, ing place in Syria, with hundreds of and the eve- thousands living under difficult cir- nings her family cumstances, in fear they could be would spend in the casualty. There are many pain- cafe‟s along the ful accounts of torture. Hearing coast. As the about them will cut your hearts into poem goes: pieces. If the love of On 29th May 2011, Hajar Al-Khateeb Syria was a and 12 other children ‒ including disease....I do her brothers, sisters, and cousins ‒ not want a cure were riding the school bus on their And if her love way to Al-Wafd school in Homs was rain...then when their bus was attacked out of let the skies nowhere by Syrian security forces. bring forth its Hajar died and 5 other children were rain injured. Their only crime was they And if her love wanted to live in a free Syria. Many was the a hero has fallen at the hands of the cold...long live children of Syria need to live in a Assad Regime. Ibrahim Qashoush the days of winter free society, free from fear and tyr- led singing and chanting at the And if her love was tears then I will anny. Below are some of our recent demonstrations in Hama. He was not stop crying events: killed by agents of the Syrian re- At Welsh Solidarity for Syria we rely gime in Hama and his broken body It is important to remember the on volunteers and supporters to was found in a river on 4th July significance of Syria and Al-Sham in coordinate activities to spread 2011. He raised people‟s spirits the Islamic tradition, Al-Sham is the awareness about what is happening through his song and inspired oth- area covering the lands of present- in Syria and raise much needed ers, famously singing day Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, and funds. The supporters and volun- Jordan from the Euphrates to Sinai. “Your legitimacy has ended, teers come from different back- Freedom is at the door, grounds, nationalities and faiths. The Prophet said: "Blessings to Time to leave Bashar, The situation in Syria is a concern al-Sham, blessings to al-Sham, Syrians won‟t be humiliated” for humanity and not only for Arabs, blessings to al-Sham. They asked Muslims or Syrians. The people and why and he replied: "Because the Heavy artillery and shelling has governments must unite against any wings of the angels of the Merciful been constant, especially in Homs, massacres and war crimes. are lowered over it." The Hama and Idlib. The scale of the destruction is severe, and people‟s There is much more that can de Prophet also said: "O Allah, homes have been converted into done, and we want the people who bless us in our Sham and our rubble. The shelling has been indis- represent us, the politicians and the Yemen!" criminate, many mosques have Welsh assembly, to do whatever Omar Arabi, Welsh Solidarity for been targeted, and churches have they can to end the killing and give Syria been bombed as well as ancient the power back to the people so landmarks of Syria. The Madiq cas- they can choose their future. The tle in Hama was bombed in March 2012, the castle is a UNESCO world heritage site. What you can do:

My parents came to Cardiff in the  Like our facebook page, www.facebook.com/ late 1970‟s, my father was supposed WelshSolidarityforSyria, to get the latest on our to complete his doctorate in electri- cal engineering and then return to events and campaigns Syria. They were forced to seek  Arrange an appointment with your MP and explain the asylum as they were advised not to current situation, ask him or her to sign Early Day Mo- return due to the severe crackdown tion 2729, which calls for the expulsion of the Syrian on political opponents. I went to Syria for the first and last time when ambassador, and to hand over the keys to the Syrian I was only 10 months old. My heart embassy in London to the rightful owners. yearns to go back and meet my  Tell your friends and family about the current situation cousins/uncles/aunts whom I have never seen and discover the land of and atrocities taking place. Global awareness is the re- my ancestors. My mum tells me gime‟s biggest enemy. Only the worlds silence is allow- about the beauty of her home town, ing it to get away with its crimes. how her house overlooked the Medi- Page 12 Volume 1, Issue 4

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