August 2023

Editor in Chief: Fawaz Chawk

Creative Director: Omar Alhashemi

Editorial Secretary: Dr. Abdul M. Kamareddine

Layout: (OVISION)

Sydney: Monzer Gabr

Adelaide: Ahmed Zreika

ICOM kicked off Arabic

Week with a blast. The energy, enthusiasm and passion for Arabic culture and language were truly remarkable. From captivating performances to engaging activities, the week was

The Islamic College of Melbourne

PRIMARY SCHOOL ARABIC WEEK

all about immersing ourselves in the beauty of the Arabic language. The talented students took to the stage, showcasing their dedication and hard work through their mesmerising performance where they impressed us all with Arabic language and Quran recitation. The winning students were rewarded

with gifts.

The students also participated in The Amazing Arabic Race where they raced against the clock to complete a series of challenges testing their language skills, knowledge and teamwork

The Principal, Dr Abdul M. Kamereddine and the Primary Arabic

Coordinator, Ms Asma Herzalla entertained the students with engaging Arabic story telling during lunchtime.

Students were thrilled and had a great time listening and practicing arabic in various fun and engaing ways; inside and outside their classes.

SECURITY FUNDING FOR FAITH-BASED PLACES

Gulhan Yoldas

The Australian Attorney General’s Department has introduced the Securing Faith-Based Places Grant, offering funding of between $25,000 to $500,000 per applicant. This initiative comes in response to the growing need for enhanced security measures within faith based places including places of worship, independant faith based school and religious organisations.

Mosques, Islamic schools, and Islamic organizations across the country are encouraged to apply for this grant if they are at risk of being targeted by crime and violence motivated by religious or racial intolerance.

The grant takes a preventative approach to addressing religious discrimination and Islamophobia by

supporting institutions in improving their safety infrastructure.

Religious institutions hold a central place in fostering community unity and spiritual growth. However, they can sometimes be targets for prejudice based crimes and hostility. Acts of vandalism, hate speech, and violence underscore the imperative of securing these spaces to ensure the safety of faith communities.

The Securing Faith-Based Places funding can be utilized for the installation or upgrading of security infrastructure like CCTV systems, lighting, bollards and other security items, as well as the engagement of security services. A complete list is available via the application link.

The grant’s objectives align with the broader mission of creating a safer environment for religious schools, pre-schools, places of worship, and

ANTI-RACISM SUPPORT SURVEY

faith-based community centers. By mitigating security risks, these institutions can continue their vital activities free from harassment and fear. Additionally, the grant’s impact extends beyond these institutions, contributing to overall community resilience and well-being. Eligibility criteria require that proposed security enhancements directly address religious and/or racial intolerance-related risks. Applicants must provide compelling evidence confirming the motivation behind crime and violence incidents. To apply for the grant, interested institutions need to closely review the grant opportunity criteria, guidelines and agreement. These are available in several languages. It’s crucial to ensure alignment with the program’s objectives before proceeding with the online application through the online

Victoria University is conducting an anti-racism project called understanding reporting barriers and support needs of people experiencing racism, in collaboration with the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) and the Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV). This research project is funded by the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth).

It is widely known that many people who experience racism (including religiously based prejudice and discrimination) often do not speak out and formally report it. This can have negative implications for the individual, the community and society at large. We

portal. The application must include comprehensive details and supporting documents. In a time when religious discrimination and Islamophobia persist, the Securing Faith-Based Places grant offers a tangible solution to enhance security. Through this funding opportunity, mosques, Islamic schools, and Islamic organizations can take a step towards ensuring that their spaces remain safe and welcoming for all. The grant serves as a bridge to a more secure and harmonious environment where faith can be practiced without fear.

Applications can be made online via the link below;

https://business.gov.au/grantsand-programs/securing-faith-basedplaces

acknowledge that there are many reasons why people do not report racism. For many the personal costs of reporting may seem too high and the prospect of meaningful outcomes too low.

There are some questions the project is trying to address by listening to the people from Victoria’s multicultural and multifaith communities. We will be running a peerfacilitated focus group to explore how to make reporting more empowering and improve antiracism support services.

For more information, please contact Linda Yang on linda.yang@icv.org.au.

يضارلأا«

REMARKABLE PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF CARRYING OUT THE FIFTH PILLAR OF ISLAM

I have recently returned from performing my Hajj where I, myself experienced and witnessed first-hand the progress and improvements made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in facilitating ease, comfort, and relief for the pilgrims of the two holy places – Makkah and Medina.

All the ritual acts of Hajj were felt easy to carry out due to the modern facilities generously made available by the Kingdom to help the pilgrims accomplish their Hajj performance. This made me and my family feel grateful and thankful to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and the Crown Prince, Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz. Certainly, all the pilgrims owe the Kingdom for these facilities.

I also noticed the distinguished role played by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and its strong and active Minister Dr. Abdul Latif Al Sheikh in keenly supervising the ‘Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Hajj Guests Program’ along with his very efficient administrative team.

Also evident, was a great interest of all government agencies in the Kingdom, such as security, health, clerics and others in ensuring the well-being of the pilgrims.

There, I met with many Muslims from around the world. In our conversations, almost all of them expressed their deepest thanks to the Kingdom for taking care of their well-being during their stay. Our halt at the field of Arafah and then also in Mina under the scorching sun, with the degrees reaching as high as 49, the heat felt was greatly dulled due to the comforting preparations made ready by the Kingdom long before Hajj. Air conditioners were found in every tent. Water was available in plenty. People’s social standings were forgotten for a while in showing compassion for one another. The feeling of true and sincere brotherhood was tangibly felt reminding me of the sincere brotherhood of the early Muslims initiated by the prophet (P.B.U.H).

The Saudi’s, men and women, welcomed us, the pilgrims with smiles on their faces. This could be seen and felt from the moment of our arrival in the kingdom until the day we departed. They were very hospitable and served us very humanely and brotherly. I felt that there was a welcoming change in the dealings and interactions of Saudis in

comparison to forty years ago when I was a student at Medina Islamic University. In particular, the Saudi officials and staff have become more friendly and brotherly towards foreigners which reflects very positively on the transformation of Saudi work ethics that is being led by the present leadership of the country.

In addition, I also experienced that in ensuring the well-being of the pilgrims, the Kingdom by its Ministry of Trade disperses security personnel to the shops to check that they are not overpricing the goods sold to the pilgrims who are alien to the environment. Such an exemplary practice, I have never seen in any other country in their treatment of their visitors.

To that extent, the Kingdom has obligated itself to the task of ensuring the well-being and just treatment of its visitors. The teaching of Islam, ‘Honour your guests’ is clearly reflected in the dealings of the Kingdom with its visitors, in particular, during the Hajj season.

I strongly have the conviction that those who have negative thoughts about the Kingdom before their journey to it, would return from it with the opposite thoughts after witnessing the reality firsthand that the Kingdom is progressing for the better for all.

During my stay there, I closely observed the system and program (جهنم) employed by the Kingdom through the guidance of its Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance

) in spreading and propagating the message of Islam. I was amazed to find the same emphasis on belief (aqeedah), taking inspiration from the Holy Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet (P.B.U.H) and revulsion to innovation that I experienced forty years ago when I was a student at the Medina Islamic University.

Frankly speaking, before I left for Saudi Arabia, I had some negative thoughts about the Kingdom as I was influenced by information read on the internet and from hearing the people talk. However, having witnessed first-hand the truth and reality, I returned home with a feeling of immense pleasure and gratitude to the Kingdom, which is witnessing a great positive transformation under visionary and dynamic leadership. A message to all is, let’s work together as one faithful community in maintaining the good image of the Kingdom which has Makkah as the birthplace of Islam.

BRIMBANK IS HOME TO A NEW ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CENTRE

A new community-led Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Centre called ‘Cooinda’ has been officially opened in the City of Brimbank today.

Council has joined with Cooinda Community Group to provide a culturally safe and welcoming space that offers programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Brimbank.

This is the first dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Centre in Brimbank.

The Centre will be led by members of the local Aboriginal community, the Cooinda Community Group.

Located in Furlong Road, Sunshine

North, Cooinda is a place where communities can come together to connect with each other and enhance reconciliation, healing and wellbeing.

Cooinda is currently operating three days a week, offering a Koorie Homework Club, Elders’ group, art classes and yarning circles.

Over time the Centre will provide a diverse range of programs, events and activities to the whole of Brimbank.

Brimbank Council has welcomed the $184,000 in Victorian Government funding for Council to work in partnership with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to establish the ‘Cooinda’ Centre.

This funding is over two years under the Neighbourhood House Coordination Program.

“Council is delighted to have a place where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Brimbank can connect on a regular basis.

‘Cooinda’ is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘Happy Place’ and this is indeed the intention.

“We thank the Victorian Government for the funding which has assisted Council to work alongside Aboriginal Elders and community leaders to provide a much-needed welcoming space for programs and activities.” Brimbank

Mayor, Cr Bruce Lancashire said.

“On behalf of Cooinda Community Group we would like to thank the Victorian Government and Brimbank City Council for the funding to establish an Aboriginal community led hub in Sunshine North.

“We’re enjoying having a meeting place where the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community can connect, heal and learn from each other and for the Elders to pass on knowledge.” Cooinda Community Group spokesperson and Aboriginal Elder Graham Cooper (Uncle Boots) said.

Imam Kafrawi Hamzah

.”تايدحتلا

ةحصلا تايدحت صاخشلأا هجاوي

NURTURING HARMONY: EFFECTIVE WAYS FOR FAMILIES TO RESOLVE CONFLICTS

By Jamilah Samian www.coolmumsuperdad.com

Every family experiences conflicts at some point in their journey together. These disagreements are a natural part of human relationships and can arise due to differences in perspectives, values, and expectations. While conflict is inevitable, how a family chooses to handle and resolve these disputes can significantly impact the dynamics and overall happiness within the household. Let us explore constructive ways for families to nav igate conflicts, promoting open communication, empathy, and understanding.

Create a Safe Space for Communication

Effective conflict resolution begins with creating a safe and open space for family members to express their thoughts and emotions freely. When conflicts arise, designate a specific time and place for everyone involved to sit down and talk. Ensure that each member feels heard and valued, without fear of judgment or retribution.

Active Listening and Empathy

During the discussion, emphasize the importance of active listening. Encourage family members to genuinely listen to one another, without interrupting or assuming their thoughts. By practicing empathy, individuals can better understand the emotions and motivations behind each other’s perspectives, fostering a deeper connection and mutual respect.

Consider a 1-on-1 Session

It might help to have a private session with each individual/party so that you hear directly from them without the heated emotions that might arise because of the presence of the other party. A 1-on-1 session

might take place before or after the combined session.

Use “I” Statements

To prevent blame and defensiveness, promote the use of “I” statements during the conversation. Encourage family members to express their feelings and concerns from their own perspective rather than placing blame on others. For example, “I feel hurt when...” instead of “You always...”

Identify the Root Cause

Often, conflicts can be superficial manifestations of deeper underlying issues. Encourage family members to identify the root cause of the conflict, which may not be immediately apparent. By addressing the core issues, the chances of resolving the conflict more effectively increase.

Focus on Solutions, Not Winners or Losers

Remind the family that conflicts are not competitions. The goal should not be to prove who is right or wrong but to find solutions that benefit everyone involved. Encourage a collaborative approach, where all family members work

together to find common ground and compromises that suit everyone’s needs.

Take a Break if Emotions Escalate

In some cases, emotions can run high during a conflict, leading to unproductive discussions. If tensions rise, encourage a short break for everyone to cool off and regain composure. However, set a specific time to reconvene and continue the conversation to avoid avoidance or prolonged conflicts.

Learn from Past Conflicts

Conflict resolution is a learning process. Encourage family members to reflect on past conflicts and how they were resolved. Identifying patterns and successful strategies can help the family develop healthier communication and conflict resolution skills for the future.

Practice Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a powerful tool in resolving conflicts and rebuilding trust within a family. Encourage family members to acknowledge mistakes, apologize sincerely, and forgive one another. Holding onto grudges can escalate conflicts and lead to long-term resentment.

Reinforce Unity and Love

No matter the intensity of the conflict, reinforce the unity and love that binds the family together. Remind everyone involved that conflicts are temporary hurdles that can be overcome through love, understanding, and mutual support. Celebrate the resolution of conflicts as a family victory that strengthens the bonds between all members.

Conflict is a natural part of any family dynamic, but how a family handles and resolves disputes is crucial to maintaining a harmonious household. By creating a safe space for communication, actively listening with empathy, focusing on solutions rather than winners or losers, and practicing forgiveness, families can navigate conflicts with grace and understanding. Through this process, conflicts can become opportunities for growth, strengthening the family’s bond and fostering a more resilient, united, and loving family unit.

Jamilah Samian is the author of “Cool Mum Super Dad”, “Cool Boys Super Sons”, “The Kindness Miracle”, “Parenting Generation Y & Z”, “Leadership in Parenting”, and “77 Power Parent Tips”. See more of her work at www.coolmumsuperdad.com

نمو ،نوبركلا ةفاثك

تارعشتسملا كلت ةعانص يف ةيسيئر ةيلمع .رلاود نويليرت اهتميق غلبت يتلا

عقوم ىلع روشنملا يفحصلا

AIMA’S NETWORKING DINNER FOR MEDICAL AND HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

The Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) organised a networking dinner in Sydney on Saturday, 22 July 2023, titled “Thriving, Not Just Surviving as a Muslim Healthcare Professional.” This was the inaugural event by the JMO & Student wing of AIMA (NSW) and was well attended by medical students from various NSW universities, junior medical officers from different training networks, and senior clinicians from numerous medical and surgical specialties.

Dr. Arsalan Anees, a Resident Medical Officer based at Nepean Hospital, and Ummah Kahloon, a second-year medical student at the University of New South Wales, welcomed everyone and provided a brief update on the event’s purpose. Arsalan urged Muslim medical and health professionals to come forward and support AIMA’s vision, goals, and objectives with active participation in various activities. He explained that as the president of this new subcommittee under AIMA (NSW), he envisions its goal to provide an opportunity for Muslim students and junior doctors across the state to network, gain leadership skills, and find mentors who can guide their journey in healthcare.

Umamah then discussed public health awareness campaigns conducted by AIMA, including CPR training in masjids, Islamic centres, and blood donation drives. The programme commenced with Dr. Neha Sheriff, a Basic Physician Trainee at Concord Hospital, who recapped her journey into vocational training and provided the audience with advice regarding CVs, interviews, and job applications. Dr. Sohaib Virk, an Advanced Trainee in Cardiology, followed with a presentation on obtaining research as a junior doctor and student. He discussed the benefits of research and offered practical tips on pursuing suitable research projects.

Clinical Associate Professor Habib Bhurawala, a Consultant General Paediatrician and the AIMA Vice President announced the start of the Volunteers and Future Leaders Programme. He explained that this programme would be offered to engaged young healthcare workers and students, aiming to equip them with the skills and mentorship required for leadership positions.

The networking dinner hosted by AIMA in Sydney was a delightful affair, complete with a catered menu and dessert selection. The evening’s highlight was the insightful panel discussion featuring esteemed medical professionals, including Dr Samia Kazi (Cardiologist), Dr Rabbia Haider (Endocrinologist), Dr Shahab Pathan (Cardiologist), Dr Neha Sheriff (BPT), Dr Sol Qurashi (Orthopaedic Surgeon), and Dr Ahmed Saeed Goolam (Urologist). The panellists delved into pertinent topics such as the challenges of balancing life and medicine, the crossover of Islam and medicine, and strategic career planning.

AIMA’s networking dinner was not just an evening of camaraderie but also a platform for budding medical professionals to gain insights from seasoned experts in the field. The event emphasised the importance of community, mentorship, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.

ISLAMIC CO-ORDINATING COUNCIL OF VICTORIA

Helping Australian businesses export halal products to over 140 countries

ICCV is the largest Halal certification organisation in Australia servicing clients locally and internationally.

ICCV is responsible for the certification, monitoring, and supervision of Halal food for the domestic market as well as the export market.

Clients cover a range of sectors including abattoirs, food processing businesses, transportation and cold storage operators.

We are the largest halal certification body in Australia. Professional, experienced and trusted.

We monitor the certified businesses for compliance of halal requirements.

We provide a means for direct supervision in house for quality assurance.

We work with abattoirs to get and keep their halal certification.

ACCREDITED MARKETS

ICCV is specifically accredited within these Muslim majority countries. Our certification is approved for all halal importing countries.

We provide full turnkey solution for FGMs to get halal.

Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Brunei, Oman, Kingdom of Bahrain,Tunisia,Yemen, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Libya, Qatar, Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh, Bosnia, Iran, Kosova, Morocco, Maldives.

Our certificate is approved in countries that now require halal certificate if goods have halal stamps:

We provide logistics companies for cold room and transport to get halal. Canada, South Korea, China, European Union (EU), New Zealand, Russia Federation, Sri Lanka, United Kingdom, United States of America (USA).

THE IMPERIAL REACH TWO COUPS AND AUSTRALIA RIPE FOR PLUCKING?

Although open imperialism has diminished since World War II it has not disappeared. Support for anti-imperialist movements from China and Russia has gone but the divisions between power blocks remain.

The Muslim world, due to its possession of valuable resources or its strategic location, is subject to constant upheavals.

This year 2023 in April then in July we witnessed two coups in Muslim countries.

Throwing Out Imran Khan

The Pakistani coup seems to be along these familiar lines.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, was a strong opponent of corruption, a defender of Pakistani independence from imperial control and a supporter of democracy in a country long dominated by the military establishment and alternative bouts of prominence by the Sharif and Bhutto families.

According to Craig Murray, British Ambassador to Uzbekistan from August 2002 to October 2004 the Pakistan military was willing to accept him as it wanted to distract from its role in enabling the CIA and US military in the drone killings, the invasion of Afghanistan and the excesses of the War on Terror.

He refused American money in return for sending troops to Yemen in support of the Saudis but his biggest sin, according to Murray was …” he

Both can be traced to the policies of the old imperial powers which have not abandoned their desire to dominate poor countries for their own benefit.

In Egypt the coup against the elected government resulted in the dictatorship of Al Sisi and the downward spiral of the economy, mass killings and the incarceration of political opponents.

In Turkiye the attempted coup in 2016 resulted in 240 deaths but defeat for the plotters.

supported the developing country movement to move trading away from the petrodollar. He accordingly sought to switch Pakistan’s oil suppliers from the Gulf states to Russia.” [7 August 2023 Craig Murray]

The Intercept was given a secret cable by a friendly source in the Pakistan military.

“The US State Department encouraged the Pakistani government in a March 7, 2022, meeting to remove

Imran Khan as prime minister over his neutrality on the Russian invasion of Ukraine…”

The day before the meeting, Khan had addressed a rally and responded directly to European calls that Pakistan rally behind Ukraine.

“What do you think of us? That we are your slaves and that we will do whatever you ask of us?” he asked.

“We are friends of Russia, and we are also friends of the United States. We are friends of China and Europe. We are not part of any alliance.” [9

August 2023 The Intercept]

He was removed from office in April and imprisoned for three years on August 5.

The Coup in Niger

The July military coup involving the arrest of President Mohamed Bazoum, was condemned by the Economic Community of West African States ( ECOWAS), the African Union, the European Union and the United States of America.

ECOWAS issued an ultimatum to Niger to restore the elected president to authority or face military intervention but has since opted for negotiation.

Chandra Muzaffar, a respected Muslim commentators and president of the International Movement for a Just World (JUST), explains why this coup was met by huge ongoing demonstrations of support from the people of Niger.

The coup was understood to be an

attempt to end the exploitation of the country’s resources by France and other western interests. Rich in oil, uranium and gold, it is of great value to its former colonial overlord. Its uranium industry is controlled by a pseudo joint venture 85% owned by France’s Atomic Energy Commission and two French companies, only 15% owned by Niger’s government.

“Based on uranium from Niger, France is fully electrified, but in Niger 75 to 80 percent of people have no access to electricity.”.

Muzaffer also points out that Niger, along with other former French colonies in Africa, is tied to the French currency, all domestic and foreign financial transactions are via the Communaute Financiere Africaine (CFA).

Strengthening the French influence is the holding of 50% of the reserves of these African states in the French Treasury. [10 August 2023 Islamic Renaissance Front]

Bazoum, although elected,

Bilal Cleland dunk1689@gmail.com

was seen as a puppet of Western interests.

According to Chris Nineham of the Stop the War Coalition: “Democracy in the Sub-region is a fig-leaf for increasing authoritarian rule and exploitation benefitting a very thin layer of the elite.”

Rigged elections, legal minefields laid down for opposition candidates to prevent challenges and vote buying are common, plus low voter turnout, combine to make a mockery of claims to democracy.

The military governments of Mali and Burkina Faso have declared that they will fight on Niger’s side should there be war, and they may involve Wagner Mercenaries.

[8 August 2023 Counterfire]

Imperial divisions are occurring with France refusing to engage diplomatically with the junta and the US sending an envoy to meet with it.

[18 August 2023 POLITICO]

There is thus a balance of power struggle between the USA and

France while there is the possibility that China and Russia with its Wagner network will benefit from the upheaval.

Implications for Australia

Imperial interests are devoid of morality. Democracy and human rights are slogans used without substance.

One current illustration is the different treatment of India and China over anti-Muslim policies. While opposition to China uses the disgusting treatment of the Muslim Uyghur population, the BJP leader of India is feted and embraced as a friend, despite a genocidal anti-Muslim policy based on Hindu extremism.

Australia is becoming involved in imperial preparations as the US lines up the pawns in its struggle against Russia and China.

Our behaviour to date suggests our

politicians are already out of their depth.

These countries are no longer socialist threats to corporate interests, but rivals in the elbowing match to get access to trade and resources.

Tony Kevin a former Australian ambassador to Poland and Cambodia in “Our minerals are ripe for the plucking by the US,” writes of 20 May in Tokyo, when Biden and Albanese announced a new ‘Australia – United States Climate, Critical Minerals and Clean Energy Transformation Compact’.

“To get behind the veiled language and understand what the US might be really pushing for here – to cut China out of the Australian critical minerals mining industry, and to lock up this vital strategic resource for exploitation by the US strategic defence sector as and when it wishes – an invaluable source is this commentary article by two Washington researchers that appeared in Australia on 24 July in

‘The Strategist’, an ASPI publication. This article sets out what look to be US ambit claims in the forthcoming fast-track discussions.

They are quite horrifying, in my view.”

“American companies should have a controlling interest in US-funded mines, so that the US government can enforce compliance with US regulations, such as blocking Chinese companies’ involvement or investment in the mine.”

“Partnering with experienced Australian partners will also enable less experienced US companies to build valuable mining skills.” [9 August 2023 Juhn Menadue]

Is this the result of the Albanese government demonstrating to Washington that there is no need for a repeat of the 1975 coup?

The author is a prominent Australian Muslim scholar and activist.

Imran Khan supporters stage protests across Pakistan

HONOURING ASSOCIATION HOLDS ANNUAL HONORS CEREMONY

Dr Omar Zitoun President of Honouring Association

It was a blessing for the Honouring team to gather and resume our activities after three years of forced break due to COVID-19. Sunday the 16th of July 2023 is a day to commemorate. It was an opportunity for the community to gather in the Australian Light Foundation and honour some of the notable and prominent leaders in our Australian Muslim society. It was a chance to appreciate their efforts and show gratitude for their remarkable impact on our community for over 25 years – Brother Radwan Zeno, Sheikh Omar Elhaouli, and Sheikh Rabih Baytie. Their

dedication and time serving the community in various ways is commendable and inspiring, may Allah immerse them in His blessings and increase their rewards.

Further to this, we were also thrilled to be acknowledging three young women who have shown a tremendous effort in memorizing the holy Quran. Sisters Mariam and Taqwa Elgendy opened the evening proceedings with a beautiful Quran recitation. Fatimah Adnan has shown noteworthy talent in public speaking and debating, in addition to developing her knowledge in Islamic studies and Tafseer. May Allah bless them and their families and grant them success in all their endeavours. MC for the night was led by prominent figure,

former ICV Executive Directror, Brother Nail Aykan. Special introductions were made by Brother Bakr Alhawari, valued committee member. Distinguished keynote speaker, Professor Aladin Zayegh, added to the success of the night, detailing the achievements of the Honouring Association and expressing his support for the vision.

I would like to take this opportunity to once again thank our sponsors and the donations of our generous community, as well as the hardworking team behind the scenes, including all the volunteers - whom without their support this event would not have been possible. We extend our gratitude to all who were involved in this event – committee members, donors, volunteers, and attendees.

Arham Ali Bakr Hawari MC Nail Aykan Sheikh Abdulrhaman Malas Ibrahim Hassan (MCCA) Professor Aladin Zayegh

HONOUREE CARD:

Br. Radwan Zeno:

• Born in Syria in 1953

• Holds a Batchelor in statistics from Baghdad University

• Arrive to Australia in mid 80’s, very active in the community since then

1. President of ICV for two periods

2. Member of Preston Mosque Association’

3. Founding member of Al Hidayah Association

4. Founder of Islamic Voice Radio at a critical time in 1996.

5. Founder of Australian Muslim Association

6. Thinking mind for the Salam Centre – Coolaroo Community Centre

Sheikh Omar El Haouli:

• Born in Libanon in 1966

• Holds Bachelor degree in Shariaa and Fatwa from Shariaa Islamic University in Beirut.

• Quranic and Arabic teacher

• Shariaa and Civil Celebrant

• Lots and lots of community and social advise and support

• Joined the late Sheikh Abaul Razzak Bakro in support to Islamic Voice Radio since 1996 and still current.

Sheikh Rabih Baytie:

• Born in Tripoli – Libanon – In 1969

• Vice President of AIM

• Imam of Alnoor mosque in Maidstone

• Member of Board of Imams in Victoria

• Manager of Human Appeal international for more than 20 years.

• Lots and lots of service to the community and Dawa to Allah (SWT)

Mariam Elgendy:

• Born in 2007

• Australian with Egyptian background

• School: Sirius College in Eastmeadows – year 10,

• This is first year in this school.

• Was at DUCV From Prep to grade 9

Taqwa Elgendy:

• Born in 2009

• Australian with Egyptian background

• Sirius College, year 9

• Learning subjects: 9 subjects, maths, Science, English, Humanities, Physical Education, Robotics, Food tech, Recreational Math and Turkish.

• Goal: continue Quran Journey and understand the tafsir and teach to others.

• Hobbies and skills: reciting Quran, baking, cooking and solve mathematical puzzles.

• Started basis with Quran at home and continued primary with Iqra.

Fatimah Adnan:

• 14 Years old Student at ICOM

• Began Quran recitation in grade 4

• Islamic Studies classes every Friday

• Started Tafseer of some of Juz 30.

• Member of debating team

• Developed Public speaking and creating rebuttal arguments through these debates.

Dr Omar Zitoun, Professor Salaheddin Bendak, Fatimah Adnan

Dr Omar Zitoun, Assmaa Zeno on behalf of her Father Hajj Radwan Zeno, Ghassan Abdul kader

Dr Omar Zitoun, Sheikh Omar El Haouli Dr Omar Zitoun, Sheikh Rabih Baytie

Dr Omar Zitoun, Mariam Elgendy, Professor Salaheddin Bendak

Dr Omar Zitoun, Taqwa Elgendy, Professor Salaheddin Bendak

ISLAMIC BOOK FAIR FOR BOOK WEEK

By Gulhan Yoldas Melbourne

More and more Muslim families are choosing books that support their children’s development of an Islamic world view, with relatable characters whose names and identities resonate with young readers.

These literary works, thoughtfully crafted by Muslim authors, cater precisely to the needs of Muslim children, skillfully bypassing biases and stereotypes. Instead, they offer immersive storytelling experiences that cultivate a profound sense of belonging and community among young readers.

In celebration of Book Week, Al Siraat College hosted an Islamic Book Fair on Wednesday 23 August which included hundreds of books written by Muslim authors from around the world.

The Islamic Book Fair also included an Immersive Book Reading

experience to launch our latest publication Nisa Goes to Noosa, complete with ocean sounds, and beach themed display.

Nisa goes to Noosa is the story of a road trip adventure of an Australian Muslim family. It’s a heartwarming tale of family, friendships, and discovery.

Nisa and her family go on an unforgettable adventure to Noosa Heads, a beautiful beach destination in Queensland, Australia.

From visiting iconic Australian landmarks, like The Big Pineapple, and forming unexpected friendships along the way, Nisa’s journey is full of excitement and adventure.

Story books written by Muslim authors for Muslim children as the target audience, align with Islamic values and offer an Islamic perspective on the world. It’s an

endeavor to provide children with stories that not only entertain but also educate and inspire, while remaining respectful of cultural and religious norms.

These books can be enjoyed by a broader audience of young readers too. Storytelling has the remarkable ability to transcend boundaries, cultivate empathy, and inspire a shared journey toward knowledge and greater understanding.

As Book Week drew to an end across Australia, it’s important to celebrate the importance of children’s literature that resonates with their values, cultures, traditions, and experiences.

https://www.barnesandnoble. com/w/nisa-goes-to-noosa-nisayoldas/1143747364

It was National Book Week in Australia and this year there’s a notable increase in demand for books that reflect the values, cultures, traditions and, more importantly, mirror the lives and experiences of young Muslim families.

ةيضوفم اننإ“

عيمجل تامولعملا ريفوت ينعي اذــهو .نييلارتسلأا

ايلارديف ءاتفتسا ايلارتسأ رجت مل“

ينعي اذهو .نرق عبر نم برقي ام ذنم

يف صخش نويلم 6,4 يلاوح كانه نأ

نس يف اونوكي مل ةيلاحلا نيبخانلا مئاوق

نوكيس هنأو نلآا لبق تيوصتلل مهلهؤت

نييلارتسلأا نينطاوملا نم ريثكلا كانه

لولأ ءاتفتسا يف نوتوصيس نيذلا ددجلا

دجن نأ ةيمهلأا ةياغ يف هنإف كلذل

EAST PRESTON ISLAMIC COLLEGE

We are an independent, co-educational, Islamic school situated in a northern suburb of Melbourne. Our students range from Kindergarten to Year 12. The College’s aims for our students is to achieve excellence in academic performance and to embrace Islamic values.

Special curriculum features include:

• 3 year old and 4 year old Kindergarten;

• E.A.L. program through to Year 12;

• Arabic language instruction as part of L.O.T.E. program;

• Islamic Studies (Aqidah, Fiqh and Ebadaat, Sirah and Akhlaq, Ahadeeth and Duas) as part of Religious Education program;

• Quran classes (Reading with Tajweed rules, memorisation of Surahs according to the students pace, and Tafseer);

• College Imam;

• Member of the inter-faith ‘Building Bridges Program’;

• Victoria Police Muslim Association & Darebin Interfaith Council partnership;

• Debating in the ‘Debaters Association of Victoria’;

• Special Learning Needs Service;

• Educational Psychologist;

• Speech Pathologist;

• Inter-schools sports as a member of ‘School Sports of Victoria’;

• Victorian Certificate of Education (V.C.E.);

• Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (V.C.A.L.);

• Vocational and Education Training (V.E.T.).