In its third consecutive year, this free event welcomed young members, parents and representatives of the HideOut Patrons alike to commemorate Ramadan and partake in breaking the day’s fast. Amongst the attendees were local community leaders and politicians including Chaplin Mohammed Ullah from The University of Manchester, Andrew Gwynne MP, Councillor Julie Reid and Deputy Leader Lutfur Rahman joined HideOut staff and volunteers.
The event commenced with a range of activities for young people, from sports to arts and crafts alongside opportunities for guests to learn more about Ramadan and Islamic traditions. Inspiring performances from members which included a touching poem by Junior HideOut members Sarjo and Fatima, followed by captivating recitation from the Quran by Mohammed, Senior HideOut member, set a reflective tone for the evening.
The speeches, lead by the Youth Zones Head of Youth Work & Partnerships, Joe Amos and Chaplin Ullah, highlighted the values of unity, solidarity and HideOut’s commitment to the community. An extraordinary call to prayer (Adhan) was performed by Shaz, former HideOut member, which resonated deeply with all present. The evening concluded with a delicious Iftar, where Muslims and non-Muslim guests were able to share a meal directly after sunset followed Maghrib prayer which also took place at HideOut.
Community inclusion and youth provisions is one of the principal focuses at HideOut Youth Zone where members from diverse demographics and those with additional needs feel safe, welcomed and are provided with an opportunity to learn. With memberships now exceeding over 7,800 members from across Manchester, of which 68% identify from an ethnically diverse background.
Reflecting on the event, Adam Farricker, CEO of HideOut, commented:
“It’s great evening for HideOut, it’s our 3rd annual iftar and each year gets bigger and better. Tonight, is about our members, parents, carers, and individuals from the local community coming together to celebrate our differences but more importantly our commonalities and the things that bring us together as community. Its an event we will continue to do annually to celebrate the vast diversity of our members, staff, and local community.”
Mohammed Ullah, Chaplin at The University of Manchester, shared his sentiments:
“The best thing about these kind of Iftars are that other people can learn about how Muslims live, it’s also a chance for us to share our religion, the thing that we love the most. Most of all, it breaks down barriers and that’s how you come together as a society, as a community…and just to share like one big family.”
