A look back at the inaugural Iftar event
12 Apr 2024
Miss Irrum Afzal, Mr Sarkhell Radha and Mr Syed Ahmed
Over the last month, many colleagues including affiliates, members and fellows of the Royal College of Surgeons of England observed the month of Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and commemorates the revelation of the holy Quran, the holy book of Islam, to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. However, fasting is not just abstaining from food and drinks (and yes, not even water), it is also a time for spiritual reflection, increased prayers, acts of charity and increased acts of kindness.
The Royal College of Surgeons of England hosted their inaugural Iftar event on Thursday 21 March 2024 at their home in Lincoln's Inn Fields. As the Equality and Diversity Lead for the British Orthopaedic Sports Trauma and Arthroscopy Association along with my colleagues, it was an absolute honour to attend and be part of this special event.
The evening started off with networking, meeting colleagues and old friends. As Iftar time approached, members gathered to break their fast with a date, water and even mango lassi that had been provided. Following this, there was a prayer congregation for the Maghrib prayer. Maghrib prayer is performed immediately after sunset and holds great importance in Islam as it marks the end of the day and the beginning of the night.
Dinner was served shortly after as a buffet service. Mr Mitchell, president of the RCS, gave a warm welcome and this was followed on by five speeches delivered by excellent speakers. The speeches were on different aspects of Ramadan, workplace support during Ramadan and the Surgical Hijab Project. Speakers also shared their stories and experiences of being a working Muslim and participating in Ramadan, which is so much more than not eating and drinking. Their experiences of navigating work commitments while observing Ramadan was incredibly enlightening and empowering. It allows colleagues to connect, support one another, and learn from each other.
Following the insightful and eye-opening speeches, there was the opportunity to network and go on a building tour to see the wonderful Royal College of Surgeons of England building.
The evening was filled with joy, fulfilment, embracing equality, diversity and strengthening community and College bonds. Initiatives like this help to educate, support, and have a positive impact on colleagues.
It was so nice to be part of this inaugural event and we hope this is the start of the annual event. Thank you, RCS, for all the efforts involved in hosting a wonderful event, which touched the hearts of many of your Muslim members.
