New masjid in Uitsig

     

The Muslim community of Uitsig will soon see the launch of a new masjid in the area. The official opening of Uitsig Islamic Centre takes place under the auspices of the Siddiqi Islamic Trust on Sunday 15th July. Maulana Hashiem Cassiem, the imam at Siddiqi masjid, said with the support of the broader Muslim community after being donated an open piece of land in the area, they were finally able to undertake the project.

“Alhamdulillah, with the support of many people in Cape Town we have managed to far with the masjid and it will soon be available to our brothers and sisters in less than a month’s time. The lights were put in a few days ago and the carpets will be put in by the end of this week. Everything seems to be done inside the masjid, Alhamdulillah,” she said.

Cassiem said that when a family in the area donated a piece of ground to the Siddiqi Centre last year, they immediately started planning the masjid layout. “There were lots of disagreements from some of the residents in the area when they heard we were putting up a masjid. Alhamdulillah we were given the go ahead and started planning the foundation straight away in October last year, building this masjid for the Muslim community. This will be the only one available in the area,” he explained.
Cassiem said they are still in need of fundraising for the masjid's parking area and are calling on the wider Muslim community to help them accomplish the final touches of the masjid before the launch in three weeks time. “We need to raise funds for the parking area and pavements as well. We are asking you to come forward if you would like to help the masjid in accomplishing this. I hope that people will contribute towards this Insha Allah,” he said.

“It is not every day that one is donated a piece of ground like this, therefore we want to build a masjid for the sake of Allah (swt). Alhamdulillah, this will surely be a huge benefit to many in the community,” he added. To know more about the Uitsig Islamic Centre and how you can contribute towards it, contact Maulana Hashiem Cassiem on 084 993 637. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Locals take games to Gaza

     

Three compassionate South Africans will be leaving for Gaza on Thursday 28 June and are calling on the community to support them in their final call to raise funds for the ‘Games to Gaza' (G2G) initiative that will taking place for two weeks with children in the central Gaza region. Tasneem Mart from the Eastern Cape - who will also be leaving on the day - said the team of 20 young professionals from G2G will be working closely with the Palestinian community hosting a fun summer camp for the children.
“We will be joining up with the UK team in Egypt on Thursday and from there we will go through to Gaza as a team, running the workshops together. We want these innocent kids to know that there are people out there caring for them and to feel that there is still hope and dignity Insha Allah. There innocence has been stripped out of their childhood and occupied by devastation,” she said. The team have been raising funds all over South Africa for the past several months and have received various equipment and funds from the broader community towards their sports, arts and crafts programs in Gaza.
“Alhamdulillah with all the sponsors, we have managed to collect equipment that was needed for the programs and also collected zakah which will be donated to families in Gaza Insha Allah." She added that there were specific requests from Gaza that they will be distributing as well. Some of the items that the team collected for the programs included sports kits, paint, toys and writing material. They will be catering for the kids and will be facilitating a range of exciting workshops, including a mixture of educational and recreational activities such as sports, arts, crafts and creative writing.
Mart said that despite doing fundraising for the program, she has also been funding for herself and managed to cover her complete tickets. “When I was invited to come on board this program, I immediately started doing fundraising for my ticket and alhamdulilah, I will be leaving with the group to help out in Gaza. Raising funds has helped a lot as I managed to raise funds for the project as well, knowing that it will put a smile on these children’s faces,” she said. They are mainly aiming to work with orphans, disabled, poor and the underprivileged children of Gaza.
“We are inspired by these very children. They are taking in life’s struggles in their stride with an admirable amount of courage and strength. Palestine has always been an issue and will always be until there is complete freedom and peace. Therefore it is important to continue to create awareness and raise funds for these innocent people. These kids are faced with terror each and every day and are in an environment where bombs and guns are being fired daily. There is hope for them and we want to see it coming soon Insha Allah,” said Mart.
The team will be staying with a family in Gaza for the upcoming two weeks and will be leaving on Sunday 15 July to meet up with their families back in their home countries. If you would like to know more about the Games to Gaza project or how you can contribute towards the initiative, contact Tasneem Mart on 084 817 8005 or email her at tasneem@nasruddin.co.za This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Also visit their webpage on www.gamestogaza.co.uk. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Addressing youth unemployment

Addressing youth unemployment

South African youth from orphanages are facing severe challenges of unemployment and not being able to properly apply their education after leaving the institutes that have been caring for them throughout the years. The Mamalani Project offers young men, many of whom have at some point in their lives lived on the street, the necessary support for them to reach their full potential. The community organisation is calling on the broader community to assist with fundraising to sustain its projects.
Project manager Gerald Jacobs told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that as a development organisation, it aims to look at the various gaps within the Cape Town community. They work hard to keep the children off the streets and place them in homes. Once they have reached a certain age of responsibility, they are taught to become self-dependant.
“Many of these youngsters that we work with in various homes become dependent on the institutions and we want to try and lead them away from that to make them responsible and ready once they leave us. Although the government sponsors them with grants and other needs, once they reach the age of 18 years old, they no longer fall under that category and need to move out of the home and start making a living for themselves,” he explained.
Many of the boys have goals in life and the organisation tries to place most of them in FET colleges after school to achieve their goals. “We have boys at the home talking about being doctors and soccer coaches one day. The look in their eyes when they speak is one that cannot be ignored. Many of them are willing kids despite some minor problems at times, but what we want to focus on is seeing that they make something out of their lives and send them away to get the necessary training.”
According to Jacobs, their biggest challenges with sending the boys away to study were transport expenses for each day. Due to the fact that many of these subject fields were very pricey, they are sometimes dependant on sponsors from various organisations and businesses to help towards the boys’ tertiary education. “We need the necessary funding to be able to send these kids for training, so they can benefit from various skills. We want them to be able to go out and look for work at the end of the day. I do not want to see them sitting on street corners begging for food once they leave the home because they can’t find work. We see the importance to train them up before such things occur,” he said.
The organisation looks at various issues in the community such as HIV/AIDS programmes and a healthy lifestyle for women. They are also seeking the necessary assistance to open up facilities and start working with girls as well. “Although the guys catch up very quick, I think that females tend to find families and take up that domestic role in homes. They are much more caring and eager to get to their goals and away from negative living. I therefore want to start working with them as well,” he added.
He said that regardless of fundraising done for development and skills programs at the institute, they are also looking at forming a strong brotherhood amongst the children that once they leave the home, there will still be support from one another. With the support from various businesses and people within the community, they are able to uphold these projects for street kids. “We appreciate everything that various people have contributed towards Mamalani Project and it has helped a lot. So therefore we are calling on the broader community to come and assist, even if it’s just for a day or two. Your contribution is a great help to these street kids and their future.”
If you would like to know more about the organisation or how you can assist, you can contact Gerald Jacobs on 021-448 2725 or 083 731 0896. Meanwhile stay tuned to Sunday Live at 8.30am as VOC starts a new mini series featuring youth who are taking the initiative to create job opportunities for themselves. In the first program we meet Micheal Myekwa who makes sand sculptures of wildlife on the Strand beach front to earn and income. If you know of any such individuals in your community, please email details to munadia@vocfm.co.za This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . (Aishah Cassiem)

Fajrul Islam hosts jalsa

Fajrul Islam hosts jalsa       

Sh Salama addessing a group of revert women in the Strand.Laura Pistorius

New Muslim reverts will share their stories of how they embraced Islam at an annual Jalsa hosted by the Fajrul Islam Centre at the Darul Islam Hall Surrey Estate on Sunday. Sheik Sulaiman Salama, the director of the da'wah and education organization, said the event aims to bring newly embraced Muslims together to help them integrate into the Muslim community in Cape Town, with all its unique religious and cultural traditions.
“We want to show them that they are not alone and that Cape Town has a huge Muslim community that is there for them, Alhamdulillah. We want to introduce them and give them a great evening which they can be part of and inspire others at the same time,” said Salama. There will be a variety of qaasidahs and talks taking place including items done by the reverts themselves.
“Most of these reverts love listening to Arabic qasa'id and have learned the language themselves. We have therefore asked the children to perform qaasidah items at the event which they have been excitedly practicing for weeks.” A number of international and local qurrah will also be reciting on the day including Sheikh Abubakr Al Shateri, who will be flying in to visit the centre for its third year round. He said that with many reverts joining them for the Jalsa on the day, they will be giving some of the males a chance to speak about their journey to Islam.
Fajrul Islam is a non-profit organisation that is open to the community and has three centres in Cape Town. Its aims are to promote Islam in the Western Cape and invite new reverts into the deen. “Alhamdulillah we have had many embrace Islam since the start and therefore they will be sharing their wonderful experience with us Inshallah,” Salama related.
“We never charge people who want to learn and benefit from our services. We are a non-profit organisation and therefore we work for the sake of Allah, Alhamdulillah. All we ask is for the community to support these reverts on the day and if anyone is willing to donate towards the Fajrul Islam Centre, it will be much appreciated,” he said.
Doors will open at 9:30am on the day with various programmes taking place up until 3pm. Lunch will be served after Thur salaah and prayer facilities will be available for both women and men on the day. No entry fee will be charged. If you would like to know more about the Fajrul Islam’s annual Jalsa or how you can contribute towards it, you can contact Sheikh Sulaiman Salama on 082 316 2694 or 021-633 3804. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Winter camp for women

Winter camp for women

A winter camp for Muslim women will be taking place at the foot of Tokia Mountain from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 July and serves as a guide to reaping the physical, emotional and spiritual benefits of Laylatl Qadr and the month of Ramadan. Event organizer, Nazlie Behardien, said the two camps which took place over the past two years were very successful.

She urged young Muslima to join the camp to experience the beauty of preparing for Ramadan and develop one's self-esteem. “Not only will this camp be focusing on self-confidence and Ramadan, but it will also look in at recognizing Allah's beauty around you and within you, increasing your concentration in salah, attaining contentment in your life and understanding yourself and those around you,’’ she explained.

Behardien said young Muslim women were faced with a plethora of challenges in today's modern world. “We are living in a society where most women live in fear or are confronted with grief. We want to better the female youth as well and prepare them for the day that they will become mothers. We need our women to look at the positive side of life and not at the bad things,” she said.

She said that women need to lay the foundation in their homes and if they are in a negative state, then it will affect their children as well. “This applies to the female youth as well. If you are in a negative state this will become a problem in the future or it will continue. It needs to stop now and we want to teach them how to become better and positive role models for women in society."

Organisers hope to provide rooms for moms and their kids for the camp weekend. “We want you to come and join us for the weekend and participate in this exciting adventure, discovering how Ramadan can assist you with various issues surrounding one’s self and how this can benefit you – Insha Allah. Bring your kids with and we will try and accommodate them all as well. It’s going to be a fun adventure..." she said.

The adventure package is charged at R340 - R370 per person which includes various items received at the camp. The group will be situated at the foot of Tokai and warm beds will be available. If you would like to know more on the ladies adventure camp, you can contact Nazlie Behardien on 082 452 2140 or email her on sahaabiyat@gmail.com . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Masajid to host golf day

Masajid to host golf day

Three Islamic organisations within the Cape Town area have come together to raise funds for their organisations and are inviting the broader community to the fundraising event. The Discover Islam Centre, Darun Naim Academy and Masjid al-Munowar will be having a joint golf day at the Rondebosch Golf Club on Saturday 1st July. Maulana Irshaad Sedick, one of the organisers of the event told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that the three organisations individually approached the event coordinators a few months ago to offer their assistance in fundraising for the golf day.

“They approached organisers a few months ago and in their own capacity they decided that they were going to have one big fundraising event to raise funds and also benefiting all three organisations as well, making it easier for those who are constantly being requested to supply and support the organisation. I must say this was a brilliant idea because now all three can benefit Mashallah," he said.

Sedick said that they are still looking for sponsorships from various businesses to contribute towards the golf day. “We are calling on businesses to come and show their support for this good cause and sponsor a hole for only R2500 each. This is the ultimate fundraiser for the year and for these organisations as well. Hopefully they will benefit from it Insha Allah,” he said.

Organisers hope the weather plays it part on the day and even if it rains, the teams be playing throughout. "Hopefully, it will be a huge success Inshallah. If you are not playing on the day and would just like to come and support by watching, you are most welcome. We really need the funds and we ask you to come and show your support and donate whatever you can Insha Allah,” he urged.

If you would like to know more about the golf day or how you can contribute towards the three organisations, you can contact Fazlie Parker on 0718977077. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Help for soup kitchen

Help for soup kitchen

A second year student at the University of Western Cape is calling on the broader community to support her by raising funds towards her soup kitchen in order to feed women and children at various clinics on the Cape Flats. 19 year old Fadielah Agherdien, who is currently donating soup and bread every Friday at a clinic in Grassy Park, said that as a student working at various clinics in Cape Town, there is a huge need for food to be donated at clinics, especially in underprivileged areas.

“The government gives medical attention to the less fortunate but what I have noticed is that no money was allocated for food,” she said. "When I was diagnosed with TB in February, I was treated at a clinic in Grassy Park and during this time I realized that many of these patients who came in every week were being treated but were not getting a proper meal during the day. This is when I decided that I need to do something to help out at the clinic."

Most of the patients who came in were women and children coming from underprivileged homes. “We ask ourselves why there are so many people who are sick? Or why is TB so provident. The thing is, if every needy person gets the necessary nutrition, the risk of infection would decrease tremendously.’’ She said that people need to acknowledge that TB and pneumonia are the most airborne diseases and are mostly found in rural and less fortunate environments.  “Bacteria grow in an immune suppressed person and if there is no food then there is no nutrition."

Agherdien said that with the support of family and friends she is able to feed over 200 patients every week. “At the moment, the ingredients are mostly being sponsored by relatives. I ask people on Facebook to help out with raising funds or sponsoring ingredients towards the pot of soup and this has also helped a lot, alhamdulilah. In order to sustain the soup kitchen I'd need ingredients for soup as well as bread or non-perishables. Even cash donations are welcome,” she urged.

Agherdien is currently donating at the Grassy Park clinic and would like to branch out to Lotus River and Retreat Day hospital as well. “If I have enough sponsors I could branch out to the other clinics as well. In order to eradicate the spread of infection we need to strengthen immune systems by providing sufficient food. This is just from a medical point of view, but imagine the reward one will receive from the Almighty. Just the thought of knowing that someone old or young that is less fortunate has had some food is just overwhelming.”

If you would like to know more on the soup kitchen or how you can contribute towards the initiative, please contact Fadielah Agherdien on 0733179964 or 0217053903. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Murabitun in doccie

Murabitun in doccie

After a successful award winning documentary on Afrikaaps – a short film exploring the untold Creole history of Afrikaans - young talented director Dylan Valley is back inviting the community to come and view the screening of his latest documentary called Jumuah - The Gathering. The film tells the story and traditions of the small, energetic community of Murabitun Muslims in Muizenberg – a diverse collection of followers of Islam.

The visual piece looks in at their lives and takes the viewer through a series of personal segments of life, careers, dreams and the community itself. Valley told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that when a fellow classmate asked him to direct the movie a few years back, he immediately took on the responsibility to get to know more about Islam and spent most of his time in the Muslim community.
“Before we eventually put everything together and started the documentary, I was forced to put myself in the Muslim environment, which included getting to know how to make salaah and recite and pronounce certain things before the actual shooting of the film.” Valley said that he was introduced to various Muslim families within the Cape Town area who briefed him on Islam.

“There were so many families who invited me to spend time in their homes, have lunch with them after Jumuah and sometimes I would stay there till late night to see how they make salaah and recite. I even spend my time at the Jumuah masjid in Orange Street just to feel and get used to the environment." As the movie proceeded, he chose to focus on certain families and used the very mosque as a focal point.

“It was important for me to become part of it and learn more of the Islamic society. Being a non Muslim, I also got the opportunity to reconnect with this part of my history as my father and grandparents are Muslim. It was a great journey for me and I am looking forward to sharing this great movie with the community.” For those interested in viewing the movie, Jumuah- The Gathering will be screened at the Furgard Theatre on Monday 11 June at 6pm and on Monday 18 June at Nu Metro in the V&A Waterfront. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

VOC meets Golden Oldies

VOC meets Golden Oldies

Presenter Yusuf Fisher meets one of his Golden Oldies Aishah Cassiem

It was a day of good food, conversation and a chance to catch up with old friends as hundreds of 'Golden Oldies' gathered for the 2nd annual Golden Hour Meet and Eat Luncheon, hosted by VOC and Gift of the Givers. Nearly 900 guests showed up at the Country Manor Hall in Schaapkraal on Saturday. The hall was beautifully decorated to an Eastern theme and guests lined up with their beautiful fur coats, silk abayas and  classic suits waiting to get their seat.
The event broadcasted live during the Golden Hour show with Yusuf Fisher between 1.30pm and 3pm on the day giving guests an opportunity to meet their favourite presenters and the rest of the VOC staff members behind the scenes. Live dedications from the crowd were also taken through out the show. Popular voices  Aeysha Laatoe, Jamiel Wallace and Mugamad Zain Majiet were amongst the presenters hosting the event and handing out prizes to the elderly.
The guests were treated to a five course lavish meal, while entertainers took the stage getting the crowd hyped up. Popular qasidah band Ijaaz stirred the crowd with their harmonious voices and The Happy Boys got them moving. Other performers serenaded the elderly with a few great hits of the 1940’s and 1960’s by artists such as Engelbert Humperdinck, Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones and other vocal legends. Traditional music was not ruled out and live entertainment continued from 4pm to 5pm concluding with a qasidah group and a Cape Malay choir.
“The entertainment was great and I must say VOC did a great job with this year’s entertainment. I’ve never enjoyed myself like this before and I found myself hopping out of my seat,” enthused one guest Rabia Amjal. Many tickets were sponsored to elderly people within Cape Town - those who would not have been able to afford them. VOC marketing manager Sukayna Johaardien said the station understood that many of those most eager to attend were pensioners who earned very little. It was therefore vital that VOC accommodate them in order to keep the station in touch with its elderly listenership.
“This is my first year that I attended one of VOC’s functions after the station sponsored me a ticket. I was able to just relax and take a break, enjoy myself with the entertainment and the people. I am a big fan of the radio station and I was given the greatest opportunity to meet my favourite presenters today,” said 65 year old Zaheedah Khan from Bontehewel. Khan said she was somewhat star-struck, surprised to meet the people behind these familar voices. "I am a big fan of Mugamad Zain and Faadil Toefy of the Saturday Live show and I’m hoping to get my picture taken with them to show my daughters,” she added.
99 year old Hajja Zainab Salie from Claremont could not control her excitement as Boeta Yusuf, as he is fondly known, introduced her to the crowd. Talking about her experience in Makkah last year, Salie had guests in tears. “Alhamdulillah in Ramadan of last year, I went to the most beautiful place. My grandchild Fagmie was with me when I did my tawaaf in my wheel chair. I just want to say that the day will come for all that there will not be a better and more beautiful place than Makkah Inshallah,” she recalled.
Sitting in a wheel chair in her blue and black abaya, Salie had the audience gripped as she talked about appreciating  life. She was escorted to the VOC luncheon in a limousine describing it as one of the funniest and exciting moments in her life.  “I thought to myself 'Ya Allah if you come to this age what are you doing in such a car?' I sit and thought to myself 'oh my',” Salie said, adding that she was not used to those type of ‘posh’ cars.
97 year old Galiemah Abrahams and 93 year old Fatimah Cassiem were also introduced to the crowd as they expressed their devotion to the station saying that VOC has been part of their household for as long as they can remember. “VOC has playing in my home since the start, always giving beautiful words to our Muslim community. When I switch on the radio, I am positive I will always hear something interesting. Not a day goes by without the frequency being played in our home," said Abrahams.
The senior citizens gushed about how they were given an opportunity to meet up with people from various communities and reconnect with those they have not seen in ages. Ragieb Ebrahiem from Grassy Park said that the luncheon was like a big family reunion. “The luncheon is a fantastic opportunity to just relax and have a great time. I have also met a lot of my friends and relatives here today that I haven’t seen in a while. Not only have I met people I know but also my favourite presenters. Being a supporter for the past 17 years, I will continue to have my radio on 24/7," he said.
The event continued into the evening as guests stayed to have their photographs taken with presenters. Gift of the Givers staff members handed out goody bags to guests on their way out, leaving them with a little memory and smile for attending this year’s event.  Johaardien said she was overwhelmed by the positive feedback, adding that it would be hard work trying to better next year's event, as the bar had been set very high.
"Alhamdulillah, everything went every smoothly and it was a remarkable success. It was intense work behind the scenes, but nothing we would not do again. These are our most ardent listeners, and without them we would not be here today. A huge shukran to all that supported us and we ask that you continue to keep us in your dua's Insha-Allah." VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

2nd Slave Challenge bigger

2nd Slave Challenge bigger

It was an early start for participants of this year’s Jive Slave Route Challenge which kicked off at the Grand Parade in Cape Town on Sunday. Close to 5,000 entrants, dressed up in their running gears, began the early morning run or walk as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) fired their miniature cannons from inside the castle of Good Hope.
According to Fatimah Allie, the communications manager for the Jive Slavery Route Challenge, the increase in participants almost took organisers by surprise and made the event an even bigger success than the inaugural one last year. “This year was a great success and the support was exceptional. A normal event hosted by sports clubs would have about 1,000- 1,500 participants, but alhamdulilah, this year we managed to get nearly 5,000 entrants to join us on the day.
"It is a great feeling, knowing that the funds are for a good cause.” Allie said that sports clubs from all over Cape Town joined them on the day, including entrants from Ocean View, Constantia, Athlone and Mitchells Plain. “I must say with all the entrants - and the great weather that also played its part - it was a phenomenal day,  alhamdulilah.”
The race, which consisted of various categories for participants including a half marathon, a 10km run, a 5km run/walk and a 10km big walk, took runners through the historic landmarks and sites of District Six, Bo-Kaap, Gardens, Sea Point and many more places within Cape Town. “This was quite a unique race and the participants loved the fact that they were given the opportunity to race around the different historic areas,” said Allie.

Historic

This includeed the Tana Baru Cemetary, the Auwal Mosque, Palm Tree Mosque and the Company Gardens. The event was managed by the Itheko Events Management on behalf of Lion of community based club, Africa Itheko Sport Athletic Club, hailed as the fastest growing running club in the South Africa. Allie said that despite minor problems that occurred on the day, everything had gond "exceptionally well". "We had a 65 year old man who complained about his body feeling cold after the run and shivered for quite some time, but with MeloMed being one of the sponsors, the participant was seen to immediately,” she reported.
The three category winners walked of with prize money of between R1,000 - R500 each. All participants were also rewarded with a medal and goodie bags after the race. “Whenever I see runners achieving something, I’m always amazed as I’m not a runner. It’s amazing to see people who have a passion for things like this and really go out of their way to achieve tops at events like this,” Allie said.
She concluded by thankin gall sponsors - including VOC and the City of Cape Town - for helping to make the annual event a success, adding that they hoped to see the race grow even bigger in future. “Without the support of the community and of course our sponsors, this event would have never been possible.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

MAHER ZAIN LIVE ON VOC

Maher Zain live on VOC

After months of perseverance, VOC listeners will finally get to hear the familiar voice of platinum-selling nasheed artist Maher Zain live on air, during an interview on VOC’s Shopping Basket on Saturday 26 May between 10-11am. Zain’s die-hard fans will also have an opportunity to post questions to the international singer during the link-up with presenter Aashia Hendricks.
With a huge international following and sold-out concerts across the Muslim world, Lebanese born Zain has taken the nasheed world by storm over the last two years. Zain’s soulful and melodic style, with strong influences of pop and RnB, has attracted more youth into listening to music of the nasheed genre. He is also the most played artist on VOC, with numerous requests for his songs on a daily basis. His debut album Thank You Allah went platinum, and his latest album Forgive Me released in April this year has seen record sales.
Hendricks had been trying for months to get the singer on VOC, resorting to continuous wall-posts on his Facebook page and emails to his manager.  She said she was quite excited to be interviewing Zain, as she is one of his biggest fans.  “When I received a final response from his manager last week after months of rejections, I was practically jumping up and down with excitement,” Hendricks enthused.
The link-up will be conducted via Skype from Egypt where Zain is doing promotional work and according to Hendricks, her list of questions from fans is piling up. “The promo on his interview has only been aired for a few days on VOC and I’ve already received numerous messages and questions for the artist. I am hoping to ask as much questions on the day.”
Hendricks said that most of the youth she has spoken to said they find Zain’s music uplifting and spiritual – a good alternative to mainstream pop music. “Many of them are so excited about this interview that there were rumours going around that he will be joining us live in studio. How I wish that was a reality, but alhamdulillah this is a once in a life time opportunity,” she said.
This is the second interview with VOC – Zain was on air shortly after a visit to Cape Town in 2010, in which he promoted his first album at the start of his rising career. Hendricks said she hoped Zain would sing one of his latest songs from his new album live on air on the day and is encouraging listeners, especially the youth to sms their questions and messages to 34530 on the day. Zain’s interview will be airing on 95.8fm, 90.9fm and 90.7fm on the day and those who would like to listen via audio streaming can tune into www.vocfm.co.za. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

IR DINNER WARMS HEARTS

IR dinner warms hearts

“Look at these kids. Look in the eyes of these orphans, brothers and sisters. If we cannot feel the pain and agony of these orphans, then brothers and sisters there must be something wrong with us..." These were the impassioned words of Habib Malik, as he stood in front of guests with tears in his eyes, holding the hands of orphans at the Islamic Relief ‘World in Need’ dinner held at Islamia High in Lansdowne on Friday. Standing in his traditional purple-check Scottish kilt, Malick from Islamic Relief (IR) in Scotland, addressed the Cape Town community, in a bid to increase funds to the humanitarian relief agency. Malik took guests through video footage throughout the evening of the agency's worldwide disaster projects leaving many in tears.
“I have a message to deliver and that is why I have come here today. I want you to witness the exile, the hunger and pain in these children eyes and those who are suffering around the world. These are the people who are with no food, no homes and not even a drop of water.  I will never force you to put something down, but all I am asking you today brothers and sisters, is to just consider these children and to ask ourselves what can we do to make a difference,” he urged.
According to the global relief worker, who has been to many countries before, it was sad and heartsore to see orphans suffering in the worst conditions one can witness. “I witnessed an eight year old child in Somalia holding her six month old brother. She didn’t know where her mother was. I asked her where her father was and she said he had died of hunger, and when I asked her where her mother was, she said that her mother had gone out to look for food and never returned to them since...

Hunger

"Ya Allah, when she showed me the food that they had to eat and fill their bellies with, my tears just rolled continuously. Now brothers and sisters you tell me, how do we watch children eat dry grass? Dried out grass mixed with water to get it down their little throat..." he described. Malik pleaded on guests to assist IR in making a difference in the lives of not only orphans but all those suffering in disadvantaged countries. With all the IR projects taking place around the world and the dedicated and hardworking team on board, many impoverished communities have been able to benefit from the donations raised.
The inspiring aid worker successfully managed to raise funds from guests on the night when he started a bid of R20 000  towards IR. The bid sustained itself as the crowd placed envelopes with donations inside blue decorated boxes placed in the middle of each table. Guests pledging their donations included Sheikh Ebrahim Gabriels and Maulana Abdul Khaliq Allie from the Muslim Judicial Council.  “IR will never judge you by your donations. Whether it is a R10 or R1, we thank you for your contribution, for your contribution is a million charities to this good cause Inshallah.”
Mallik said that he was amazed to see the Muslim community in South Africa and that he will be leaving the country with lots of memories from both IR and the community itself. “I am very much inspired to see hundreds of masajid and Islamic centres in SA. My brothers and sisters in Cape Town, you are all knowledgeable people and inspiring Alhamdulilah,” he said.

Contribute

Amongst the guest speakers at the event were Minister of Science and Technology Naledi Pandor, who attended dressed in a black abaya. She implored the community to make a contribution saying it would put a smile on the orphans' faces. “Now that we are a free South Africa, we are not afraid to be free and make a contribution to the society. It’s one of the duties we have to do and this contribution will go towards the achievements of our country, for we are committed to make an attempt to better the society," she said.
“I believe that IR and its values are reflected in a very practical way in the way the Muslim community conduct itself. We in SA understand the challenges that confront the entire country, the continent and the world at large and those who we can make a difference to. Therefore we all need to have a belief...a belief that we can make the world better and by doing what each individual can achieve and believe Inshallah,” said Pandor, adding that she was willingly ready to make an effort to support the IR relief drive in Johannesburg.      
As guest speakers and entertainment lined up throughout the evening, orphans from a children home in Tafelsig dressed up in blue and black IR sweaters, treated guests to a beautiful qasida item leaving the crowd teary eyed as they sang ‘My Mom is amazing’. “When we listen to the qaasidas on radio, we don’t really ponder about it. But what made the event so special tonight is that it was done by the orphans itself and this really brought tears to my eyes, especially when the international speaker came back on stage with them to give another applaud to the orphans," said VOC presenter Ayesha Laatoe who also attended the event.
Guest where treated to a five course lavish meal with various entertainment items throughout the evening. Amongst the artists lined up throughout the event, were Zayne Adams and Gavin Roman, who got the crowd hyped when they performed on stage. “The entertainment they had after the speakers where great and the orphans themselves were really amazing when they took the stage. I came out today to support IR but I must say not only have I learned new things about the organisation, but I surely had a great time as well - Alhamdullilah," said Shaheed Adams, one of the guests who attended.
IR country director Ismat Muhamed said the tour nationally has been excellent and the response from people all over has been very fantastic. "It was very motivating for the team of IR in South Africa. Alhamdulillah, may Allah reward all those people who helped out and contributed to this worthy cause.” Muhamed added that with the support of the community and people all over the world who assisted, they are hopefully one step ahead of making a difference in the lives of orphan’s around the world. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

fire victims needs help

Fire victims seek help

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“The lights were off. There was no electricity and I was forced to light a candle. I fell asleep and the next thing I knew there was fire all over the place..." These words describe the shock experienced by Sadia Isaacs, as she wipes her tears away, speaking about her traumatic experience when her Woodstock home burned down on Saturday 28 May.
Isaacs said that when she put the half-finished candle in a saucer on the day at approximately 9h30 before going to sleep, four hours later she awoke to one of the most horrific scenes she has ever experienced in life. “There were flames all over, I could hardly see in front of me. All I could hear was the screams of neighbours trying to get me out. Then I managed to get the door open and Petrous, who was inside the house, tryed to get me out. His face and hands burned...”
Petrous Wilson, 42, said that when he noticed Isaac's house burning, he ran across the street shouting as he thought the children where stuck inside the house. “I always get food from Aunty Sadia and she’s always helpful. When I saw the house burning I thought to my self, 'I am not going to let this people die' and I ran to get help,” he recalled.
He was forced to enter from the back as the front part of the house was completely locked down. He managed to get Isaac’s out of the house safely, scarring himself in the blaze. Isaacs said that she was glad her children were at a family member’s house when the incident occurred. The family has however lost everything that was inside the house including the children’s school uniform.
She is urgently looking for donations and help from the community to help them get back on their feet. “Everything was burnt out, as well as my children’s school clothes. Alhamdulilah, they received school uniforms last week from my sister whose children also attend the same school. I am not asking for much of the community but to at least consider my children and the most important thing I would say I’m desperate for is a roof over our heads,” she appealed.
Isaacs said that she is urgently trying to get a roof for the house due to her concerns of rainy weather flooding the premises. “We are still living in the burned place at the moment and if it should rain, the place would be flooded,” she said. Since her interview on VOC’s Afternoon Cruise last month, there has been a lot of response and people coming forward to help.
“There was a couple of 'boetas and tieties' who came to see what we need and said that they going to try and help us out in anyway possible. Alhamdulilah, my eldest daughter has also been bringing the little ones food to eat and taking much care of us during this hard time,” she said. In the meantime, Isaacs said that they are pleading to the community to come out and support them in any way possible.
“I am concerned about my children. No one in our household works and it’s been hard since 2008 when my husband passed away. We do not look at what you give us, but will appreciate it. Your support will be of great help to my little family Inshallah,” she said. If you would like to contribute towards the Isaacs family, you can contact Sadia or Aasia Isaac’s on 084 086 9187 or 079 646 9425. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Palestine NPO wants volunteers

Pal NPO wants volunteers

The Palestine Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), a non-profit sports organisation in Palestine, is set to launch their official sport initiative in September this year and are calling for volunteers from around the world to assist them in Ramallah. The organisation's technical director Michael Dahdal in Ramallah told VOC News that with all the challenges taking place in the country, they are stepping in to make a change in the lives of the Palestinian youth.
There are so many challenges taking place here in Palestine including occupation and health. We want to try and get the youth off the streets and work with them, to build them up to become independent,” he explained. Dahdal said that with most of the funding coming into the country from worldwide funding organisations, Palestinians are depending on these funds. His aim was to make them self-reliant.
According to Dahdal, the sport sector in the Middle East has traditionally not been taken seriously. He said they are trying to develop an educational environment through their programmes. “These programmes are comprehensively engaging and provides unique opportunities for these youth, regardless of race, religion, and political affiliations. Youth who are currently at the center are learning the basics of Martial Arts which include various other Olympic sports with the aims of contributing towards the social development of sports in the country,” he said.
Dahdal said that they are committed to supporting the future Palestinian generations as well as the athletes to get them to an international level. “Some of the sports which we also currently training these youth in are wrestling and boxing. It's amazing to see how passionate these kids are..." He added that the organisation is also looking at building up a culture of excellence to align with Olympic values that can support the Palestinian's Olympic ambitions. “We are looking at creating opportunities for life long participation and want to support these talented Palestinians. Here is great talent amongst the youth and we want you to see it,” he said.

Financial independence

Dahdal said that one of their biggest strategic objectives is to be financially independent within three years time but it is going to need support to get started. “This means we won’t be reliant on any external sources of funding, helping us move people away from a general culture of dependency created by the conditions we are in. To start however, we understand that we do require some support, so we are seeking volunteers to assist with fundraising activities, whilst actively seeking sponsorships, partnerships and grants,” he explained.
They are seeking willing volunteers to come and assist them at their gym and offices in Ramallah as well as assisting on the organisation's events. “If we could just invite you to come and support us and make this a reality, it will be of great help. Come and spend a day with these Palestinian youth and get to know them. See the talent in them and what they are capable of,” Dahdal said, adding that they are working on trying to secure the funding to launch the initiative in the upcoming summer time to get the children a step further and skilled.
Dahdal said that once they are steady and running they will however  adopt a social enterprise model and create their own revenue streams, providing work opportunities, economic empowerment and autonomy.  “It’s a big challenge, but we have a great team who are committed to making it work and aiming at making it a huge success."
The organisation is currently doing various fundraising projects around the world including Abu Dhabi and United states and are calling on people to come and assist them in any way possible. If you would like to know more about the Palestine MMA or how you can contribute, you may contact them on +972 59 552 6593(PAL), +971 50 6923591 (UAE) or+61 423 795469 (AUS). You may also email Micheal Dahdal at mdahdal@palestinemma.org or for more information visit their website on www.Palestinemma.org. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Mustadafin Struggling

Mustadafin struggling

Another vital NGO working within the community faces problems with their operational costs and have been bogged down by mounting water and electricity bills of late. The Mustadafin Foundation, a relief aid agency, has now kicked into gear to initiate their upcoming fundraiser, earmarked for Saturday 9th June. Centre director Ghairuniesa Johnstone said if they are not able to keep up with the payments, then they will soon see an end to projects within various poor communities.
“We have a salah khana and a feeding scheme running in the Delft area that feeds up to 1000 people every day. This is one of our main concerns at the moment and if we cannot keep up with payments then all these people will be left hungry,” she said. Despite using the premises for the feeding scheme and salaah facilities, they are also hosting various educational and development programs throughout the week.
“The people within the area have really been benefiting from these programmes and the youth has been active with their weekly participation. We want to raise as much as we can at the upcoming bazaar to uphold these projects,” she explained. Johnstone said that she was disappointed to see that there were no response as yet from various institutions she has called on for assistance. “The bazaar has been postponed to this month and still no response from institutions. We are still looking for more people who would be able to come forward and offer assistance,” she said.
A few women in the Delft community have offered to donate handmade baskets for the bazaar to raise funds for the organization. “The baskets will be filled up with goodies to be sold on the day of the bazaar. If there is anyone who is willing to assist us with filling these baskets up, then we are asking you to please come forward Insha-Allah,” she pleaded.
Johnstone said that they will be having a collection drive on the day of the bazaar and are calling on the community to donate blankets and clothing for the destitute.  “There are so many people who are without clothing and blankets and that is why we decided to have a collection drive on the day a well." The bazaar will be taking place throughout the day with various food and clothing stores on show. If you would like to know more about the bazaar or how you can contribute towards the Mustadafin Foundation , you can contact Ghairuniesa Johnstone on 021 633 0010 or 021-633 0060. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

masque fundrasier

Mosque hosts fundraiser

In an attempt to muster funds to sustain its community projects, Masjid Ul Bagr in Strandfontein will be having their annual eat and treat fundraiser on Sunday 1 July. The broader community are asked to join them at the Stardom Hall in Schaapkraal, with VOC’s Saturday Live presenters Muhamad Zain Majiet and Faadil Toefy entertaining guest throughout the evening.
Moegsien Abrahams, one of the masjid committee members, said that with the yearly fundraisers taking place they are able to cover various expenses at the mosque. “We host various fundraising events every year and alhamdullilah, this has helped us a lot, especially knowing that we can cover different aspects, including monthly fees for our muálimah’s and imams of the masjid.”
Abrahams said the fundraising helps to facilitate distributions of food parcels and kitaabs, overseeing to the ladies counsel and maintenance to the masjid. He said that there are no building projects at the moment, but they will be doing fundraising soon to build a new ladies bathroom on the second floor of the madrassa. “The ladies need a new bathroom and we are aiming at building one soon. However, we are first concentrating on getting the main expenses done and settled this before starting this project,” he explained.
Abrahams said guests will be served to a three course meal including entertainment by the Allie Brothers. Guests will also be given the opportunity to sit in on talks done by Sheik Riyaad Walls and the Imam of the masjid, Sheik Abubkr Ishmail. Tickets are still available and are sold at R120 each. If you would like to know more about the fundraiser and how you can contribute towards the masjied, contact Moegsien Abrahams on 021 393 3718 or 082 858 7082. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

support for DEEN TV

Support for Deen TV

The newest Islamic channel in South Africa, airing on Top TV has been making news in the Muslim community for the past few months with a lot of response from the public to increase Islamic content on SA television. Directors of Deen TV are now advising the public to tune in and participate, making programming more engaging.
Faizal Sayed, one of the directors at Deen TV, told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that they are urging the broader community to subscribe and support the channel with the aims of uplifting the South African Muslim community. “We can only create a platform for the community and therefore they have to participate and be supportive in these structures in order to uplift the people in our society.”
Sayed said that when their group put the channel together, they were very specific when it came to the content focus. “One of the main focuses we looked at when we started this was that when it comes to Islam television in SA, there shouldn’t be a choice between these Islamic channels. In the SA context, I don’t think there are any choices at all. The time has come that we do have these things and make it available for the public,” he said.
Deen TV has been airing on a trial basis for the past couple of months and officially aired on Channel 355 on 1st June.  Sayed said that with the smooth running of the channel thus far, they are successfully running a variety of programs for viewers.  “We are currently airing a range of documentaries focusing on spiritual matters, with scientific approaches, light entertainment, recitations and basic Islamic tenets or teachings,” he said, adding that all these programmes will mostly be focused on community uplifment projects.
Sayed said that popular programs which are currently airing on Deen TV include lectures by Maulana Dawood Sampson, Imam Nur Salie, Maulana Irshaad Sedick along with international speakers like Sheik Muhammad an-Ninowy and Maulana Imran Hosein. The channel also includes various documentaries by Harun Yahya  Deen.
However, Sayed said that they are looking at promoting more interactive programming and advising the public to call in during shows and give their comments. “We want to make Deen TV a community-based channel and in so doing invite communities to engage in it in terms of event coverage and to also call in to give commentary and lot more,” he urged.
With the sacred month of Ramadan coming up, they are finalising good spiritual programming for Deen TV. “There are a variety of Ramadan programs we are busy scheduling for the channel. However we are still waiting on a few responses regarding programming for the month. But what I can say is that it is all going smooth at the moment, alhamdullilah.”
The channel’s CEO Farouk Arief said that with a sharp decline in morality and ethical behavior perceived as a growing worldwide trend, Deen TV should focus on community and social upliftment in a positive environment. Inculcating spiritual balance should be an integral focus in the channels content approach, mission and vision.
Sayed said that further programming will include community news and developments of importance whilst at the same time creating a platform for businesses to advertise their businesses, products or services. If you would like to know more on Deen TV, visit their website on www.Deentv.org or contact them on 082 926 1933. You can also visit their Face Book page at www.Facebook.com/Deentv . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Tears flow for Sh Umar

Tears flow for Sh Umar

Emotions ran high at the Addison Road masjid in Salt River on Saturday, when members of the Cape Town Muslim community paid their last respects to one of the Mother City's oldest scholars, Sheik Umar Gabier, who was laid to rest at the Mowbray makbara. The alim died after suffering multiple strokes and was hospitalized at the Gatesville Medical Centre in Athlone for the last three weeks.
Hundreds of community members attended the janaza salah at the Nurul Islam masjid which was emotionally led by the presiding imam, Maulana Abdul Fataar Carr. Addison Road was packed with vehicles lined up on both sides of the road. Members of the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) and relatives of the late scholar were asked to pay homage to the life of the alim, among them were Imam Allie Gierdien, a close friend of the deceased.

MJC president, Maulana Igsaan Hendricks said the 78-year-old would always be remembered as a controversial individual within the Muslim community. “We are all here today to express our sympathy to the family of the Sheik. To the rest of the membership in the MJC, Sheik Umar was one of our seniors, and he served this community for many years. The Sheik was an extremely controversial person, but his controversy kept us on our toes and this brought leadership to the MJC. We pray that Allah (SWT) grant him a high place in jannah, Insha-Allah.”

Loss

Hendricks added that it was growing extremely difficult for the MJC recently as senior members were becoming scarce. “We must recognize that it is not an easy exercise to just replace somebody who spent the last 50 years in the MJC. It would also be protocol and correct for us to express our respects to the community of Salt River - as he was seen as a son here and this community - today has lost a great son.”
Member of Parliament, Sheik Shahid Esau, echoed his sentiment at the loss of the prominent individual in his tribute to Gabier. “Today, is a very sad day in our lives. A member of the ulema has left us and it is particularly sad as we lost one of the seniors, who contributed to the community in many different ways. We know that Sheik Umar endured many struggles during his tenure, but he was both bold and brave in dealing with situations. Yet he continued to take up the struggle to protect the aqeedah of the Ahli-Sunni Wa Jama'ah.”
He said his relationship with Sheik Umar spans many years and highlighted that the alim maintained his youthful spirit despite his age and illness. "He is one of the senior members who made a special effort to always attend meetings and functions and he was involved even when he was at his weakest. He was an active member of the MJC, even in recent months, and always showed his life is for Allah (SWT). This is the legacy we want to uphold and continue, so as to create a positive change in the community which will lead them to greater heights in future.”

Ready

The alim's younger brother, Sheik Abdul Gamiet Gabier brought tears to the eyes of mourners as he related the life he shared with his brother with whom he had shared many years of study in Cairo where - at the age of 12 and 14 respectively - they had been sent by their father to study deen. “For the past three weeks that my brother was in hospital, he told me that he would be celebrating his 79th birthday in a few months, but he said he is ready for the Aakhirah. He said if he died, he would die a satisfied person, who believes that Allah (SWT) would forgive him and have mercy on his soul. He said he knew that he made errors of judgment throughout his life but lived only to serve Allah (SWT) in the end."

The alim said a lot changed over the years in society and urged the community to live a lifestyle that would be beneficial to the Muslim community. “Currently, we are seeing a community that has lost complete vision and respect for the investment that was made by the fathers and mothers of the past, who left behind sons and daughters that were willing and able to serve the Islamic interest of this community.”

He added that it was always a dream of his brother to be buried in the same grave as his mother, knowing that he had loved his mother a lot and for his Janaza salah to be performed at the Nurul Islam masjid. “Umar always said when he leaves this dunya one day, he wants his salah to be at this very masjid - a masjid that our mother and grandfather helped build when we were younger. We grew up in this street and we watched our mother take food to our grandfather everyday while this masjid was being build. During that time we always asked each other what would happen one day and what would become of this masjid.”
The alim said through his brother’s great deeds and contribution to the Muslim community, he wished that he be placed in the highest place in Jannah and he would be missed by family, friends and the community. “I pray for him, for he was my teacher and the one who looked after us when we needed it the most. I will miss him. Our community will miss him, and we make duah for everyone to become a better man in the community with the barakah Quraan."

A special tribute to the late Sheikh Omar Gabier will be done at the Nurul Islam Masjied in Salt River on Monday after Esha with various ulema present. This follows a similar on air tribute on VOC on Sunday Afternoon. Contact the MJC offices on 021 6844 600, for more information. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)