The Region Five Young Muslim Association will be holding their first Muslim Fest at the Blairmont Community Ground on Tuesday – an event that is expected to bring together the local Muslim community for a day of fun, prayers and activities.
While such activities are often held in countries around the world, this is the first time an organization has embarked on such in the ancient county of Berbice.
Businessman and founder Shabeer Baksh in an interview with the Sunday Stabroek explained that the organization is a newly formed one.
Baksh who serves as the President of the organization, explained that they noticed that there is a gap in the Muslim community in Region Five pointing out that there are Islamic Youth programmes and centres in other regions.
As such they thought the organization was necessary to “support our youngsters to enhance their studies and become leaders in the faith.”
Additionally, he said that they are looking to fund Islamic classes widely known as madrasa throughout the region so as to ensure the religion is kept alive and carried on in the future generations.
In terms of the Muslim Fest, Baksh said that it first came about through a cricket match after which they decided to expand to have an entire day of activities.
There will be an inter jammat (masjid) cricket competition along with horseback riding, archery, face painting , henna, table tennis, domino, rounders, kids quiz, etc, and a corner for distribution of books and used clothing.
There will also be a talk from the New Amsterdam Masjid Imam Moses Haniff. The day of activities will also see two breaks for the Muslim prayers to be carried in the ground itself.
There will also be halall food and beverage booths all day.
Meanwhile, persons desirous of having booths or participating in the distribution of books and clothing can contact telephone number 675 0119 or WhatsApp 644-2714.
With the entry being free, Baksh yesterday stressed that they are hoping that persons will make use of the opportunity to come out and participate in the Fest.
Additionally, he stressed that their organization is hoping to one day build a centre in the region for youths and other members of the local Muslim community.
