We were delighted to once again be able to host our annual Staff Iftar event, which serves as an opportunity for our teams to come together and learn about Ramadan.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and has a special significance in Islam. During this period, Muslims are required to fast and to give to charity, to show kindness and patience and to strengthen their relationship with God. Iftar refers to the time in which the fast can be opened.
As we have a diverse staff and provide support to a multi-faith community, we decided to come together and allow our teams to understand each other a bit more.
The Iftar was held at Positive Steps, with an open invite extended to all staff. Some staff even took part in an optional fast, whereby they did not eat between sunrise at 6:20am (also known as Sehri), and sunset at 6:02pm (also known as Iftar). This was encouraged to better understand the impact that fasting can have on a Muslim’s daily routine during Ramadan.
Nasim Ashraf from European Islamic Centre shared an insightful presentation about the meaning of Ramadan and why it is so important to the community, as well as how to be mindful and respectful to peers during this month.
Reflections of the day were shared and attendees were able to converse and gain insight into the experiences of their peers.
At Iftar, staff broke their fast with a date and glass of water, and were able to observe a prayer lead by Nasim. This was followed by a delicious meal provided by Action Together, and time to connect and spend time together.
