GTAF’s Community Engagement at Sudbury Muslim Community Centre
On 20th September 2024, we had the pleasure of visiting the Sudbury Muslim Community Centre in Sudbury, Suffolk for an outreach event, Alhamdulillah. We had a talk there before Jumuah and prayed Salah there.
We also had the chance to set up a stall there. The goal was to connect with the local Muslim community, talk about how technology can support the Ummah, introduce our Islamic apps, and take feedback to improve our products.
Setting Up the Stall
Our trustee brother Riasat Islam, and UK Outreach Coordinator, brother Hasib Bin Saleh, arrived early to set up our stall and put up banners. They worked closely with brother Topon Alam, a local Bengali volunteer, to understand the local community’s needs and tailor our message.
Sudbury, located in East Anglia, has a predominantly non-Muslim, white population. The centre is currently the only place for Jumu’ah, Taraweeh, and Eid prayers. The community hopes to establish a dedicated masjid in the future, in sha Allah.
A Brief Talk before Jumuah Salah
Before the Jumuah khutbah, Brother Hasib gave a short and simple talk. He focused on how technology can support Islamic practices and help the community, echoing the Imam’s earlier reminder about using technology for the benefit of our deen and the Ummah.
The message was well-received, reflecting the community’s interest in exploring ways technology can aid their Islamic practices.
Engagement and Support from the Community
The community’s response was amazing. Almost everyone who attended Jumu’ah stopped by our stall to collect free materials and learn more about our apps. Many brothers also supported our ongoing projects through Sadaqah Jariyah, by downloading our apps and making financial contributions.
Future Collaboration Opportunities
After the event, our host, brother Topon Alam, took us to a local Bengali restaurant for a lovely meal. Over lunch, we talked about possible future collaborations, including a talk or workshop for students suggested by the Imam, who teaches at a school in St. Albans.
Moving Forward
The event at the Sudbury Muslim Community Centre was a big success. We not only met our goals but also built a strong relationship with the local community and opened the door of opportunities for the future.
We’re excited to keep this momentum going and continue supporting the Muslim community in Sudbury and beyond, insha’Allah.
May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’Ala bless our efforts to serve the Ummah through technology and community engagement, Ameen.
