Aishah Cassiem: July 2012

Wednesday, 25 July 2012

AWS goes to Strand

Gift of the Givers joins VOC once more for the Ahlan wa Sahlan outreach in the Strand where last month they also disbursed much needed aid on two occasions.VOC

VOC staff and Ahlan Wa Sahlan (AWS) team take the long road to Masjidul Ummah in Gustrouw, Strand this Sunday, the first stop for the annual Ramadan outreach project. The community social initiative, now in its 13th year, targets a different mosque every week and aims to lend a hand to poverty stricken areas in the Western Cape during the holy month.
This year, VOC has once again brought on board humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers (GOTG), to provide needy residents with 500 blankets. These will be handed out by the mosque committee later in the week to deserving families. According to GOTG's Gawa Sayed, they will also assist with goodies for the Iftar, as well and a warm meal for those needy persons attending the initiative.
One of the project’s committee members, Fuad Behardien, said Strand has always been considered a place of leisure for well-off families, because of its proximity to the beach. However, there are a large number of destitute families in areas like Tarentaalplaas, Bllkkiesdorp, Nomzamo and Llwandle. “There are those who can not afford much, many of whom who live from hand to mouth. In these sub economic areas, poverty levels are very high. The unemployment is also increasing and there are many who want to work, but are unable to find work,” he said. As an educator at the local Muslim high school, Madrasatur Raja, he said they often witness the conditions of children who have little to live on.
Niyamatullah Noordien from the Strand Muslim Council said choosing the Ummah Masjid, the second largest mosque in Strand, for this year’s AWS program was a great gift to many underprivileged families in Strand. “In the immediate area of the masjid, the poverty is visible. Since its establishment, the masjid has been working with those affected. To see the faces of these children when they are given something to eat is just sad as many of them stand in long lines,” he related.
One of their projects is a regular soup kitchens twice a week to feed underprivileged people and the jamah sponsors bread towards it each week. “We want to try and do whatever we can to contribute to these people. Many of the children stand in the queue as early with their buckets. In fact, the majority of those standing in the line are young children.”
Noordien said that with a full program for the day, they are hoping to get the broader Strand community to join the visitors from Cape Town. “We are not just calling on the Strand community, but those in other communities as well. The main aim is for the community to participate in this beneficial program, just stepping inside the masjid to recite is already a great blessing, insha Allah.”

Addressing poverty

Rajab Devajee of VOC's Community Forum, said that choosing the areas for the 2012 AWS program was not easy. “Every year, the AWS committee sits at a round table to discuss where our next projects will be taking place. It is one of the hardest decisions, because all over Cape Town there are places with very high poverty levels,” he said. “One of the names that came up was Strand and we found that there is a little place called Tarentaalplaas, where poverty is rife. This is when we realised, we have been all over, but not to the Strand for AWS.”
Ebrahim Arnold, one of the project’s founding members, said many new areas have been added to the AWS list this year. “We have almost been around all the townships in the Peninsula and this year we will be going to places that we haven’t been to before, including Bonteheuwel, Ocean View, Parkwood Estate and Strand. Alhamdulillah, we have expanded the areas that we are covering and are ready for this year's initiative.” Arnold added the needs in poverty stricken communities were highest in winter.
“So the need for assistance is even more vital. People not only need food, but blankets and clothing. But we also have to look at these needs all year, not just in winter or Ramadan,’’ he said. Those who are able to donate towards the initiative in terms of non-perishable goods and good quality clothing can drop items off at the masjid on the day or at the GOTG warehouse in Athlone Industria. But the event was also about celebrating the Quran, said Arnold, who urged the community to join them for the Khatam, led by local youth, as well as for the communal iftar. To this end people were welcome to bring food with which to share at iftar.
The AWS programme will be taking place from 3pm Sunday and will proceed until Maghrib and facilities are available for women. If you would like to know more about the programme, contact VOC’s offices on 021-442 3507 or Gawa Sayed of Gift of the Givers Cape Town on 021-638 7909. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Friday, 13 July 2012

Homosexuality not inborn

FEATURE PART 3 - While there have many claims that homosexuality is genetic and that people are born with it, various medical professionals around the world say that this is not the case and that environmental factors in society are the causes of this practice. International psychologist, educator and trainer Dr Idrees Khamissa said that people have to acknowledge that homosexuality is becoming a growing phenomenon in society and that it is underpinned by a multitude of factors.
“I am one of those with the view that from a Muslim perspective no one is born like this and with the numerous people that I have interacted with, I have found environmental factors that have very strongly contributed to it,” he told VOC News. In his experiences, various homosexual youth that he worked with have been sexually abused by their parents. “These are all environmental factors and we need to look at what the trigger points are. If the kid was sexually abused, then he needs to be sent for therapy immediately so that they can look at all the underlining negative experiences and change it to positive,” he said.

Childhood scars

When young children have been sexually abused by their parents, then the chances of them having a healthy relationship are very low. Sexual abuse victims need to empower themselves to get some kind of means towards ensuring that they do not replicate those actions on their own children one day and to neither get involved in actions that are unacceptable to Islam.
“I once met a young man who at the age of 19 years old had already had 20 male sex partners and when I observed him I immediately saw that that he was on that path...by then he had already lost his masculinity. I tried to engage him and that is what I did. I do not go out to them and say that it is haraam although I know it is haraam. I don’t do it immediately as I first want to win their hearts over and want to take them away from that kind of behavior that is unacceptable to Islam,” he related.
Khamissa would then ask homosexual youth to give him some background of their upbringing and that many youth had shocking stories to tell. “Another young boy told me something very significant. He said to me that his parents used to fight a lot until the father eventually left home. His mother, to compensate for the absence of the father, started to mostly protect him. In the process of that, he became so dependant that he lost his manliness. Therefore, what he was looking for was a male dominant, assertive kind of partner,” he revealed.

Media

Khamissa pointed out that for young boys and girls, sex is so gratuitous in the media and that same sex marriages are being applauded. “We will find singers singing about it and poets writing about it and the media are just further increasing it," he said. “I spoke to another youngster who came out of a good strict religious home and he said that when he was in Grade 9, he and his boy friends went to a hotel and they began to experiment on each other.
"Why I am talking about all of this, is because the critical thing in life is that many people say that it is inborn, but I have interacted with various famous psychiatrists and those of them who studied for 20 years concluded that this same sex relationships is not inborn but from external environments. This is something we have to understand,” he continued.
He said that the important thing is how one deals with the situation and that parents have to always stay in a relationship with their children. “We need to win their hearts over and we need to identify the underline causes that trigger this kind of behavior. We as parents need to be vigilant in the relationship of our children at all times and we need to interact with them and be observant at all times so if there are any tell tale signs that they are indulging in any of these signs of deviant behavior then we will know when to step in."
Once homosexual youth believe that that is who they are and become accustomed to the lifestyle, then it becomes very difficult. “Mothers and fathers need to pray that Allah guides them and make them understand that what they are doing is wrong and because those individuals who incline and indulge in that kind of lifestyle, will find every reason to justify it. In life we shouldn’t think because we like something it is naturally good for us. If one likes watching pornography it doesn’t mean that it is good. And this is the whole point that many people use this as an indulgence of these kinds of behavior,” he said.

'Born that way'

People should not encourage youth into believing that they were born that way. It is not a good idea for them to participate or condemn them. “I think that in each one of us there is wrong and its important to win these youths hearts, especially with the month of Ramadan its important to win the hearts of all our children and guide them and their parents. We need to connect with them spiritually, intellectually and emotionally,” he said.
“The important thing in life is that it’s a process and it’s about gradualism. You may have negative behavior that goes against Islam but you always try to reach out and ask Allah for forgives. Sometimes you will see that it is still ongoing at times but you must not give up and the important thing in life is that if you are able to acknowledge that what you are doing is wrong and if you can believe in it and internalize it, this is part of the process. Speak to people that have deep and profound understanding of sexuality who can be sympathetic and supportive and can help you get out of the situation,” he advised
Khamissa believed homosexuality was an addiction just like drugs and that homosexual youth have to tell themselves "if they would like to build up a healthy body and mind then they should not engage in it and rather move away from it". He said that they also have to ask themselves fundamental questions about their life choices.

Parental involvement

The parenting expert said he was saddened when he saw parents having children but they do not interact and engage with them. “What I always say in my workshops is that you can fake that you care, but you cannot fact that you are there. You got to get involved and be there to show various qualities of parents and marriage, but when it is in trouble it has a negative impact on the children. So on the one hand if we see what is going on we should have the coping skills for the children ready on the other hand,” he added.
“One of the important aspects is that once you have a relationship with your kids, and listen and engage with them, you’ll see that some children have enough confidence around their parents and they will speak openly about things like this. Children need to speak about their feelings when it comes to things like this for it is a serious issue and can lead to worse."
In a recent survey done, when asked what children wanted their parents to discuss other then sex, most said gays and lesbianism. “While there is a sociological revolution, there is not a moral regeneration as kids are pulled in by the media and they move towards experimentation and we do not prepare them for that reality. Parents need to get involved with them and know who their friends are and who they are involved with. I think that many parents today have forfeited their responsibilities,” he said.
Any father or mother whose children have sexuality issues or any other issues would have some regrets that they did not engage their children early enough. “We are so focussed on our children’s academic success that we are not preparing our kids for the realities of the world, and the educators themselves they are sometimes inclined towards that kind of behaviors. It is said that ‘we teach who we are’, and the important thing is that we must make sure that the schools our children are going to have educators who have a strong sense of morality and people and schools should also play their part positively,” he reminded.
“I will say this again, that the children’s actions lies in the laps and responsibilities of our parents and educators, because sometimes children will be taught topics and they are not sure about it and then they will sometimes tend to experiment at that young age,” he cautioned, adding that with the homosexual issues coming out amongst many youth, more workshops for parents and youth should be implemented and that they should not be in denial and should seek help as soon as possible.
“Don’t be scared to go and seek help as there will always be assistance. Keep a relationship with your children always. This is an issue that is happening before our very eyes. I have no doubt that they themselves will do the right thing and be empowered soon, insha Allah. All that I want to tell youth is that they should remember that they are in their time of their lives and that they have many years ahead of them. I do not want them to be pessimistic - but to be optimistic.
"You must know fairly well that what you are going through is not an internal dark tunnel, but a huge test on you. I have no doubt that you have the ability to remove yourself from this situation for Allah (swt) listens to you, Allah is with you and most important Allah knows you. But the question is - are you with Allah?" VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Thursday, 12 July 2012

IRSA launches Ramadan appeal

With the sacred time of Ramadan fast approaching, humanitarian organisation Islamic Relief South Africa (IRSA) is urging the broader community to contribute towards their iftar programme for orphans and vulnerable children this Ramadan. IRSA country director Ismat Mohamed said they are running a number of small projects and hope to help more impoverished people this year. Last Ramadan, Islamic Relief Worldwide assisted people in more than 25 countries with food parcels, iftar meals as well as the provisions of fitrah parcels on the day of Eid.
“If you look at regions like East Africa, West Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe and other places, there are a lot of people who cannot break their fast and that why it is important for Islamic Relief to step in and assist. However, this year we intend to increase donations on our Ramadan project, and we hope that the community can assist Insha Allah,’’ he said.During the month of Ramadan, Muslims tend be more generous and giving of their time for the less fortunate.
“Every Muslim always looks forward to Ramadan as it is an important time in the year. It also gives us an opportunity to give to those who do not have and to also assist them, especially with their iftar,” he said. IRSA has various iftaar programmes in South Africa for orphans and vulnerable children. “We support these children throughout the year with these programmes and we also have special programmes for the community as well where we invite them to come and join us giving them an opportunity to interact and learn more about our projects,” he explained.
IRSA will be hosting various events in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg soon to raise funds. “Something that I have also discovered last year was that many of these children look forward to Eid each year and many of them do not have access to proper clothing. That’s why we have a day where we take these orphans to the mall for shopping to get them Eid clothing. And just like we know the value of orphans in Islam, we know them on the day of Eid as well,” he continued.
With Ramadan in the winter season this year, he urged people to donate towards their ‘Winter Warmth’ campaign. This initiative will be running throughout the Ramadan period. “Many of these orphans do not have tracksuits and that’s why we need your assistance to be able to purchase them these items. Many of them have school uniform as well but do not have a winter school uniform and this is another aim that we concentrating on this year,’’ he said, adding that IRSA’s blanket drive and soup kitchens will also be continuing during the winter period.
Mohamed emphasized the importance of supporting the destitute at all times and not just at a certain time of the year. “Many people say that they only spend money in the Ramadan, but what I want to caution to people is to tell them that poor people don’t only starve in the month of Ramadan – and that there are 12 months in a year that they are in need. We ourselves eat food throughout the year and Allah (swt) gives his ragmah and mercy upon us throughout the year, not only with food but also with air and the water that comes down Alhamdulilah. So what we can do is support the needy in return,” he pleaded.
When one funds orphans, they should not only care for them through the month of Ramadan but throughout the whole year, Mohamed said. “We need to feel the pain and see what these people are going through as they need us at all times. This an important message that we cannot ignore. We are hoping to get as much support from the broader community this Ramadan and we are urging you to please contribute towards this good cause. We are not asking for large amount of money but for what you are able to contribute Insha Allah.”
Donations for the IRSA’s Iftar programme are R100, with the Winter Warmth project going for a donation of only R50. Those who would like to donate towards the organisation can contact their main offices on 0800 111 898 or visit their webpage on http://www.islamicrelief.co.za/. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Foster care more prevalent

The lengthy processes involved in formal adoption is one of the main reasons why South Africans are more likely to take orphans into foster care. That was the opinion of two Muslim orphanages in Cape Town, after a study by the SA Institute of Race Relations (SAIRR) showed an increase in foster care rather than adoption. According to the statistics, South Africa has more than 1.4 million children living in foster care households. The study showed that adoptions decreased by 52% and foster care increased by 72%.
Gaironisa James, a child and youth care worker at Habibia Children’s Home in Rylands said adoption processes do take up a lot of time. “Adoption is a long procedure and with foster care we do a proper background with the foster care parents and the child gets placed by social services or child welfare to various foster parents rather swiftly,” she said.
The fact that foster care came with a financial incentive made it easier for foster parents. The foster care grant is currently at R770 a month and many people are now opting to foster a child than to adopt one. “It depends on the social services as well. They will too decide as to how well the foster parents are able to take care of the kids. If they feel that the foster parents will benefit from another source of income then they will grant them that,” James explained.

Compatibility

Fareed Jacobs, the manager at Vision and Child Care Centre in Athlone, said that there are a number of reasons why South Africans are reluctant to adopt an orphan instead of providing foster care. “At many times people adopt children but then things don’t work out and they find themselves bringing the child back to the orphanage or social worker. That’s a huge setback for the child,” he told VOC News.
To offset this problem, Vision has various programs with the orphans including that of hosting a child for the school holidays. “If families can host a child over school holidays and on Eid they actually start getting familiar with the child and the child themselves, get used to the family as well. This is how we can find out if they are compatible and if not. If things work out, then they allowed to host the child for a period of six months,” he explained. The interested couple or individual can apply for foster care for the child if a relationship or bond has been formed. If the ‘parent’ take the child out of foster care without getting to know them, most of the time it back fires.
The SAIRR report further stated that the number of orphans increased by 29% between 2005 and 2009, from just over 4 million children to 5.2 million. Jacobs said they too have seen an increase in the amount of children being placed in orphanages. “Because of poverty and unemployment in our communities, many of these parents revert to drugs to solve their problems and this is becoming very scary. It is increasing tremendously and you won’t just find the fathers on drugs but the mothers themselves,” he said. A number of children at Vision have been brought in at a very young age and their parents are daily substance abusers.
“Most of these kids come out of broken homes and according to the social workers, many of their parents have a ‘I don’t care’ attitude towards them,” said Jacobs. Unemployment and the high cost of living meant that the extended families were unable to take of the child if they were abandoned or neglected by their drug-addicted parents.

Awareness

“If the masajid and churches preach, then we can make a greater awareness about the situation. Because of drug abuse, people do not know what they are doing and abuse their own children. Sexual abuse and violence towards children are the type of cases we get on a daily basis,” Jacobs said. The centre is currently busy with a building project to increase space to allow more orphans on the premises and urged the public to contribute towards the centre. “The reason we appeal for people to donate to us generously is that so we can complete our building project and take in more children,” Jacobs urged.
SAIRR estimated that by the year 2015 there will be more than 5.5 million orphans in South Africa with 32% of these kids being maternal, 56% paternal and 12% double orphans. According to James, the prevalence of HIV/Aids was and would remain a major factor in the increase of orphans. “It’s also about education...parents need to teach their children about the dangers of promiscuity and about healthy living. If we can do this, young children won’t be removed from their biological parents,” she said.
James added that more guidance needs to be given to children at school and that they need to understand the consequences of having children at a young age. “I think that we need more teenage pregnancy subjects at a school level to teach these kids. It needs to be implemented to both males and females. Education is vital and the earlier we start, the better.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

homosexuality not a game

Homosexuality not a game

FEATURE PART 2 - While some activists in the gay and lesbian community are of the belief that virtually every Muslim family in the Cape has someone battling with sexuality, local ulema say many fall into homosexuality out of curiosity or by experimenting. But at the same time, they acknowledged that there were many young Muslims who were genuinely conflicted by the Islam's strict prohibition of homosexuality and their own cravings.
Councillor and regular VOC expert guest, Najmunisa Solomon said many gays and lesbians were confronted with a "terrible" battle and no one should stand in judgement when compassion and understanding was needed. However, this did not mean that gays should seek to justify homosexuality in order to make something acceptable which was clearly forbidden in Islam.
"Homosexuality is as much a challenge as illness, disability or poverty might be for someone else. Allah tests each of us in different ways and this is no different for someone who struggles with their sexuality. While we cannot ever accept homosexuality, it does not mean we cannot be sympathetic about the daily struggle they wage, as long as they do not seek to twist Islam to make homosexuality acceptable," she said.

Haraam

VOC’s in-house alim, Sheik Riyaad Fataar, head imam at the Husami Masjied in Cravenby, agreed, saying that young people should not be playing around with homosexuality which was haraam. “One should encourage youth at all time to heed the advice of the Nabi Muhammad (pbuh) and to engage in Islamic activities to avoid one from falling in to these situations. When one looks at the issue of gay and lesbianism – it is indeed a very big problem in society today and we should at all times look at preventing this from happening to our Muslim youth,” he urged.
Fataar said that many people believe this act is a naturalised progression, but he argued that homosexuality was a societal construct. “The only time this came in to place was in the time of Nabi Lut and if people regard it as normal then we would have found it in the time of Nabi Adam. So I totally do not agree with this being normal,” he disputed.
One has to bear in mind that Allah (swt) has created men and female and that they will procreate. “That procreation only takes place between male and female and in Islam we recognize that and consider that to be of natural mankind. Anything other than that like homosexuality is considered haraam in the deen of Islam and Allah (swt) explains this to us when he speaks about the people of Loot and describes it as ignorant,” he said.
Fataar said that people should always admire those who want to make a change in their lives as there are always opportunities for change. “Know that Allah (swt) has said in the Quraan: ‘Oh my slaves, those of you who have transgressed against yourselves, never ever despair with the rahmah and mercy of Allah (swt) as He is the one who forgives all sins’,” he cited.

Forgiveness

“Therefore my advice would be to seek the forgiveness and to cry before Allah as he will make a way to take you away from your situation. It is also important to seek for your iman, as he is the one thing that will protect you from falling into haraam, insha Allah.” The alim guided those struggling with this conflict to recite the Holy Quran and taqbir, especially during the sacred month of Ramadan.
“I would also encourage them to avoid being in the company of these people who discuss and take this evil actions lightly, as they speak about these things to provoke desire in you. Allah says that man will follow the religion and of his close friends, so brothers and sisters, be careful of who you make friends with and if you fall into sin and do wrong deeds, then don’t continue…move away to things that will take you away from it,” he advised.
Parents also have a role to play and should make sure their children understand that what they are doing is haraam. He urged them to assist their family to get closer to Allah (swt) and make their home environment stronger by performing salah and do good deeds at times. “Remember if we think of these evil and haraam things we are opening the doors to Shaytan and he is whispering to us to commit it.
"Therefore, do not despair in the mercy of Allah when you do things to open the doors to Shaytan. Always seek forgiveness and guidance. May we all avoid these wrong doings and may Allah (swt) grant us all forgiveness and strength to make us stronger Muslim, insha Allah.”
Also read Part 1 - http://www.vocfm.co.za/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=5354:2012-07-06-18-08-56&Itemid=131. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Monday, 9 July 2012

Give blood before Ramadan

With the holy month of Ramadan looming, blood donor organizations may face a shortage of blood, as fasting Muslims will refrain from donating due to a lack of food in their system. Blood in the Western Cape region is already at an alarmingly low rate and the South African National Blood Service’s (SANBS) is now urging blood donors to come forward and donate as soon as possible. The Western Cape Blood Transfusion Service public relations officer Marlize Mouton told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that they are in dire need of blood donors and that the current blood stock level is only enough for two days. Stocks will drop further if the organization is unable to increase collections.

“Unfortunately blood can not be artificially manufactured and only the real thing will do, so this is why we rely on our voluntary donors for regular blood donations and by regular we mean four times a year or every 66days,” she said. “With every blood donation we can save up to three peoples lives and with the daily target of a five days blood stocks which is only possible with 3000 units collected per day, we have not achieved this since the start of the winter.”

Each year during the winter season they are left with a low amount of donors and this places huge burdens on SANBS. “During this period we struggle the most to get in blood donors especially during winter, because of the cold weather, flu’s, school holidays, and of cause with the Ramadan coming up as well. The blood that is being donated is beneficial and contributes in treatment towards many lives and if no one is contributing then we are definitely sitting with a huge problem. Therefore we are urging the community to come out and donate,” she appealed.

Shortage

The shortage of blood donors has resulted in various specialists having their patients wait for blood transfusions as well as the SANBS being unable to meet demand. This may result in them requesting hospitals to hold back on planned surgeries. The Western Cape currently has a three day blood stock, but is looking at an ideal of a five day blood stock.

“With this we are therefore requesting the Group O donors to come forward as soon as possible and to donate at their nearest stations. Group O blood is most affected as there are only 1.5 days in stock. This is most in demand as it is the general blood and can be given to patients of any other blood group in emergencies,” she explained.

Mouton said that they currently have up to eight clinics running in the Cape Town area every day and that all regular donors should make their way to the stations. She added that those who are interested in donating blood can speak to nurses before going ahead and that in order to donate; it is important for them to abide to the criteria.

“Donors have to be between the ages of 16 and 65 years old. The criterion is quite easy and I would encourage you to speak to a nurse to find out more on how this works. No matter if you are an old or new donor, each time you come in to donate blood, you will be taken through a general health test to assure that your blood is 100% pure and healthy,” she said.

“We are urging you to please come forward and donate towards this good cause as it will really contribute towards many patients in hospital and will be greatly appreciated.” SANBS has various clinic stations in and around Western Cape. If you would like to know more about the stations or how you can contribute towards the South African National Blood Service, you can contact Marlize Mouton on 021 507 6300 or visit their webpage on www.sanbs.org.za. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Non-Muslims iftar with DIC

Non-Muslims who are interested to know more about Islam will be given a glimpse into the deen during the most spiritual time of year, when the Discover Islam Centre (DIC) in Lansdowne hosts its annual iftar. The da’wah centre is inviting non-Muslims in Cape Town to experience breaking fast with them on Saturday 28 July at the Ottery Islamic Centre, one week into Ramadan. Centre director, Maulana Zakariyya Philander, said the idea behind the program is to introduce non-Muslims to Ramadan and to let them experience it as a means of da'wah.

“We decided that what better way than inviting them to fast with us on the day. We are also inviting them to our two hour program that we will be having just before iftar time, taking them through some of the main reasons why Muslims fast and why this month is so special to us.” Philander wants guests to experience the way Muslims break their fast, while allowing them to experience the sense of the brotherhood in Islam that comes with this time of the year.

“Many non-Muslims have their own ideas of how we as Muslims break our fast at night, always wondering how we do it and thinking that we are starving ourselves all day. We want to show them the main reasons why we are fasting during this month for the sake of Allah (swt). We will also be taking them through the traditional savories and foods that families put on their table in Ramadan. So it is an opportunity for them to experience it with us and see what it is realy like,” he said.

According to the alim, besides the fact that Ramadan was a very spiritual time for Muslims, it is also a very joyous time. “Every year we cannot wait for the month of Ramadan to come. It’s a month that we share with our family as we break fast together. The best part of it all is the festive and congenial mood at this time. We want to showcase this to them, underpinning the act that we do all this simply for the sake of the Almighty, alhamdullilah.”

Spirit of Ramadan

The discussion session will also look at what the Quran says about fasting and significant this time is for Muslims. “Fasting has been part of Islam for a very long time. In fact. it has been part of various other religions and we can give them a glimpse into their own path as well. And if it happens that they are inspired by Islam and Ramadan – then that will be of a great bonus to us, Insha Allah Ameen.”
Philander said that many people have already booked their names for the event and will be bringing non-Muslim friends along. “A lot of people have come forward already, so we are hopeful that we will fill up the place, insha Allah. However, the first people that we looking at inviting would be the family of those who have embraced Islam. Often people become Muslim and their family do not really know what Islam is about. So this will be our first point of call to give them a window into our world.”
A variety of guest speakers will be present on the day, as well as various reverts who will be sharing their experience of fasting. “We are still confirming last minute guests, but i can confirm that we have some great speakers on the list, including people who embraced Islam last year. I hope that this will inspire many on the day, insha Allah,” he said.

“We are working on a RSVP system so if you have a non-Muslim friend that you would like to bring with and experience iftar with us, then you can contact the office and they will issue you with tickets.” The program will start immediately after Asr salah. It is an open invite, the alim, said, adding that the public still has to RSVP before the event. If you would like to know more contact the Discover Islam Centre on 021-696 8375/76. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Youth battle homosexuality

FEATURE - Muslim youth in Cape Town are finding themselves facing an internal battle of homosexuality, as a direct conflict with their core Islamic beliefs and their family ideals. Many youngsters are dealing with their issues privately, and fear they will be ostracised by their family and friends, should they speak out. A VOC survey amongst a group of Muslim youth on the Cape Flats found that many young people were helpless and had no one to turn to. Youth from various areas spoke about the challenge in breaking the silence and fulfilling their moral responsibilities as Muslims to stand up and speak out against what is deemed to be an unnatural practice.
Fadwah Regal (all names have been changed), a 20 year old student, said that as a young Muslim woman, being a lesbian is one of the hardest challenges in her life. She is seeking the necessary help to confront her situation. “When I was in grade eight I started moving away from guys as I was more comfortable with girls. When I got older I only started dating as I started meeting people in the same group as myself. It has gotten to that point where I can’t get out of it… I’m already deep in it. But I want to move away from my lifestyle and start living a positive and righteous life,” she revealed.
For Raafiq Adams, a 22 year old journalism student living in the Salt River area, life has been different since breaking out about his homosexual issues with his family. “My news came as a shock to my family especially my dad. I know that somehow I have hurt them a lot and ask Allah (swt) to guide me on the rightous path and steer me away from who I am before the day I die. I want to start living an Islamic lifestyle away from all of this and with friends and society having lots of bad influences, I am struggling to reach that point,” he said.
Imraan Stevens, a 21 year old second year business student, said that one of the hardest issues that he has to deal with is the fact that because he has been homosexual since grade 11, it is the only life he knows. “I’ve been like this for quite some time and it came as a huge shock to my family when they found out.
"At the time when I first started exploring it with my friends, I wasn’t quite sure if this was the right thing to do and I was a bit sceptical, although I strongly felt part of me is heading that way. Coming from a strict religious background, reading Quran and making salah, I knew that what I was doing was wrong but I still went ahead and continued it, until I was introduced to The Inner Circle (TIC) organization in Wynberg, ” he recalled.

Finding solace

Stevens said that he went with friends out of interest and was surprised to see the environment at the organization. “The first time I went was in 2010 when they had a mass boeka in Ramadan at TIC and like any other Muslim environment, they had their Arabic scripts on the walls, salah room, women wore hijab and men wore their fezzes,” he described. “Everything looked normal. It made you believe and understand who you basically are as a Muslim, that it was okay to be homosexual and that there’s a chance for you.”
TIC has been criticised by various Muslim scholars in Cape Town after their establishment in 1996. Founder of TIC, Moegsien Hendricks registered the organization in 2004 as a NPO and human rights organization to assist queer Muslims to reconcile Islam with their sexuality. Stevens said that some of his friends parents who were involved at the organization would invite them every week to come and sit in at the workshops and this drew him deeper into homosexuality.
“They were basically looking for more people to join their organization and the mass boeka’s and workshop was an opportunity for them to build their place up. They would host workshops to get us to accept who we are and how to come out with the truth to our relatives and accept who we are.” He added that if his iman was strong enough to be able to know that what the organization was practicing, he would never have continued sitting in on the workshops.

Shame

He said that most of his relatives have distanced themselves from him and that his situation has brought a huge veil of scandal within the family. “Since they have discovered that I’m homosexual, they’ve been acting like I’m some kind of disease. I want to change and believe that there are possibilities for me to change but with all the challenges and confusion, I am struggling to reach that point.”
Most youth struggled with the notion of ‘being homosexual and Muslim at the same time. Adams was of the opinion that one could not engage in a homosexual lifestyle and still be a practising Muslim. “I don’t believe that it is even a question for it is considered as inappropriate for anyone. I know that I am Muslim and what I’m involved in is wrong, but I have realized the disgrace and this I do not agree with.”
“To be honest, it’s a really hard question to answer as I know according to Islam it’s regarded as a huge sin. But on the other hand, I use to think that I can be Muslim and homosexual at the same time. It’s a hard situation to be in and once you in it, it is surely hard to get out,” said Stevens, adding that he sometimes feels a huge guilt, but remains in his situation due to his friends.
Regal said that she feels ashamed of herself at many times and sits on her salah mat crying asking Allah to guide her. “I know that it is wrong and that I should not be doing this. Sometimes I think to myself ‘I am a Muslim and see what I am putting myself in’.” Asked whether they would take the first few steps to changing and walking away from homosexuality, the majority of youth said they struggled to get to that point due to the fact that they socialised in the same circle.
Regal said she wants to reject homosexuality and start living a clean, chaste life. “I would sit and cry every day and ask Allah to forgive me and make me a better person. It is so hard to deal with this. I want to change and it’s not something that will happen overnight. It will take place soon Insha Allah and I believe that it is possible, for there’s always space for change and I believe that in my life, I will too,” she lamented.
Stevens was just as hopeful, but admitted that breaking away from his friends, knowing that they are in the same environment every day would be tough. “I believe that there is a possibility for me to change and I am hoping to get there Insha Allah. I need the utmost support from family to make my first few steps to the righteous path and not by being mocked by society,” he said.
With the realization that more and more countries around the world are beginning to show tolerance towards the lifestyle of the gay community, statistics show that most of the Western and European countries already allow homosexuals to enter into marriage or some relationship comparable to it. Some states even repealed laws discriminating against homosexuals and others have already given legal recognition to homosexual relations. The question remains with the pink lobby so strong in cities like Cape Town, how to prevent Muslim youth from falling into its trap, without ignoring the dilemma these youth face.

NEXT: The Islamic perspective. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Work for unemployed

Unemployment has been increasing on the Cape Flats over the past few years with many locals in various communities still struggling to find jobs. Unemployed residents in the Salt River and Walmer Estate area can now register for local jobs in the area under the Mayor's Job Creation Project. Woodstock ward councillor Brett Herron, told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that they have created various projects in the area especially since residents started complaining about the state the area was in.
“There were many call-ins about dump laying around and the unhealthy state the community was in and so we came up with this brilliant idea calling on unemployed people living in the community and creating jobs for them,” he explained. Many unemployed residents came forward, registering themselves on the initiative and at the same time- benefitting from it. “We have come up with this initiative to get those people in the community a job keeping them busy and therefore gave them a working period of 75 days within the community and paying them for their duties,” he said.
The council initially worked on two projects, one in the Salt River area employing 20 unemployed residents, and in the Walmer Estate area employing 10 locals and paying them for cleaning up various sections like the sports complex, parks and streets. Herron said those who are interested in these kinds of projects can come forward and register themselves at the Woodstock Library adding that they would like to give each and every unemployed resident in the area an opportunity.
“We want to try and give everyone a chance and once your name has been picked out of the box and you have worked for 75 days, we keep your details and call you again after a few months to be able to give other unemployed the opportunity as well." He urged unemployed residents to register themselves on the project as it helps to contribute towards their daily living. “We want these people to come forward and when we have projects like these we want to be able to offer you these jobs and paying you for your contribution in the community. No age or marital status is needed. All you have to be is unemployed."
Herron said that most of the residents who made applications over the past month were women and children who have just finished school. “I have found that the majority of these women and children are eager to find work and would do anything to get an income for the family. There are lots of peoe who need jobs and that’s why it is of great importance to create jobs for these people in the communities,” he said.
“Those who are interested in these projects can register themselves at their community library and please bear in mind that you must be living in the area that the projects are done. We will be having more projects in the upcoming year as well. We encourage you to make an application as it has contributed a lot to many families as well.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

hijaab gift for women

‘Hijab: gift to women’

Producer Nafiesa Khereker with her gear for VOC's Proudly Hijabi Day. Aishah Cassiem

Adorned with pink flowers, bright colours, berets and a range of beautiful accessories, VOC’s female staffers gave their ordinary headscarves a makeover, to show just how stylish the hijab can be. The enthusiastic bunch dedicated two days this week to launch the VOC Proudly Hijabi campaign to create awareness about the often misunderstood head covering. VOC’s Afternoon Cruise dedicated the entire show to Muslim women and youth as they proudly took listeners through the understanding of wearing the hijab and what it inspires in them.

“Proudly Hijabi Day has inspired me a lot and I have learned new things from it. I was at a stage in my life where I went through the whole rock, vintage and punk rock phase. I always wanted to be like a real Muslim woman wearing hijab,” confessed VOC reporter Tashneem Abrahams. She said that she has become fascinated with the way hijab can become beautiful and how women style it. “One of my colleagues came in last week and showed me ways to how I can style it up. I was amazed by how differently I felt…this inspired me. I’m definitely looking forward to learning more. ”
Nawaar Railoun ha
s been wearing hijab for the past two years and said that that seeing how Muslim women have reinvented the hijab showed that women can still be beautiful when covered up. “The hijab plays a great role in a women’s life. Alhamdulilah, I am glad that I have found this path and finally made the decision to dress modestly. One of the reasons I also started wearing my hijab was the fact that my stepdaughter started growing up and I had to start explaining to her why women wear scarves.

Setting example

"At times I felt like a hypocrite because I never wore a scarf on a daily basis, and since then I realized that it was time to change and be of an example to her,” she explained. Women should realize that hijaab is more than just a ‘doekie’ and said that when they start to understand why, they should wear hijab. I don’t care what people think of me and why all of a sudden I’m covering myself.
"Alhamdulilah, I know and understand that this is for Allah (swt) and that from it I will reap good reward, Insha Allah.” Railoun said this awareness has made more observant of the way women are covering themselves, and she now found herself fascinated by the beauty of hijab. “I started wearing abayas and various Islamic styles. I love it and can’t get enough of it. I am awe-inspired, Aahamdullilah.”
Amongst the guest speakers sharing their understanding of the hijab was Mualima Gadija Allie, who informed listeners of the virtues of modest dressing. Allie said that it was time for women to start making resolutions and start growing closer to Allah (swt) by taking command of covering their beauty. “Alhamdullilah, Allah (swt) has given a beautiful gift to women and therefore we should appreciate and understand the true beauty of covering up and protect ourselves with the hijab. We should look closely and see that hijab is of great beauty and protection to a female,” she said.
“The intention of visiting the topic of hijaab is not to see who is right or wrong for Allah has already ordained it for us. It is for us to fall in love with this wonderful command that was given as a means of protection for ourselves and the community, alhamdullilah,” she said, adding that parents should implement the hijab to children in their early development stage and should be of a role model to them.

Start early

“The hijab should be brought to children from a young age and not when they are almost done with school. It is important for parents to communicate the importance of hijab as it is an essential factor in one’s life. It is important to ask Allah (swt) to fertile the ground so that the seed can grow. Women need to start falling in love with the hijab and the Islamic way of dressing, so that they can be one of many great ambassadors of Islam Insha Allah.”
Mainstream views of the hijab have often been misconstrued, and the headscarf is still seen as a symbol of subjugation and male patriarchy. “There are mothers who are walking around in hijaab with their daughters walking half naked next to them and then we have our daughters in hijab and mothers dressed in a modern way. Ya Allah we should start realizing and encouraging each other,” said Allie.
“Especially to the mothers, encourage our daughters to wear appropriate clothes Inshallah…for women are jewels and Allah has granted us with this beautiful gift. The hijab is the way to protect us from haraam and negative things happening to women in our community. May Allah (swt) grant us all the hidaya to bring us closer to Him and may we all start covering ourselves in a manner that is appropriate Insha Allah.”
If you would like to know more on the VOC Proudly Hijabi campaign you can contact Mishka Daries on 021-442 3500 or if you have interesting hijab styles to share, you can email her on mishkad@vocfm.co.za . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Thursday, 5 July 2012

Bursaries available

Students are struggling to get bursaries for tertiary institutions, forcing many of them to stay at home due to financial problems. With education being extremely expensive, tertiary education in particular - students have to make sure that they understand the importance of attaining good marks in school in order to stand a chance of qualifying for a bursary.
StudieTrust, an independent national bursary organisation in Cape Town is now calling on students to make early applications for bursaries. Zama Mojalefa, one the organizations representative told VOC’s Afternoon Cruise that when learners apply for a bursary, they should bear in mind that it comes with many criterion. “Bursaries are hard to get and one needs to have good marks in order to get it. The earlier the application is made, students will push to higher their marks before the year ends,” she said.
She said that their bursary programmes offered to students this year aims to give away various bursaries at universities and FET colleges of the student’s choice. “The bursary also entitles them to choose their field of study, weather its engineering or beauty therapy. We want to make sure that we cover all career fields in our bursary programe and if the student is entitled a full cost bursary, we will ensure that whatever they need is covered for the year including student accommodation,” she explained.
She added that certain fields of study will have larger amounts to the bursary. Mojalefa said that students need to have a pass percentage of 70% for mathematics, 65% for English and physical science and 60% for all other subjects. “They need to make sure that they match the criteria of the application. However, if the university requires a particular percentage to get in, then we will go according to the institute’s criteria, applying the same as theirs,” she said.
She urged students to make application as soon as possible as the Studietrust bursary application period for 2013 has already started in April and will continue up till 31st August 2012. “Completed application forms must be submitted to us not later than 30th September if you want to be considered for a bursary for 2013. Late applications will not be considered,” she said.
“If the person does not have access to our online applications then they can sms their name, surname and address to 31022 and we will send them and application form as soon as we receive their sms. You can also download the application from our website www.studietrust.org.za if you do not prefer the online registration,” she said.
Only applications from South African citizens studying at public educational institutions will be considered. If you would like to know more on the Studietrust bursary program or how you can make application for a bursary you can contact Zama Mojalefa on 011 477 2831 or 086 607 6604 or you can visit the web page on www.studytrust.org.za. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

family seeks Ramadan aid

Family seeks Ramadan aid

“It is still so emotional for me to think about this, knowing that what was once our family home - is now gone and destroyed.” These were the heart-wrenching words of a teary eyed 57 year old Fariedah Jansen, in her appeal to the community to assist her family after a devastating fire broke out in their Beacon Valley home in March, leaving four families completely homeless. With the signs of stress and sadness clear visible on her face, Jansen said begging was humiliating, but out of desperation, she was forced to ask for donations.
“This will be the first Ramadan that I won’t be able to cook for my family. It still breaks my heart and I still often find myself crying at most times,” said a weepy Jansen, while clutching police affidavits and newspaper clippings, as proof of the incident. Jansen and her 38 year old son arrived home to find their house engulfed in flames. Their home had been completely razed, and all her belongings destroyed.
“I was out with my family on the day and when my neighbour called me to tell me what was happening, we immediately rushed home. She said that she noticed smoke coming from the yard at 14h30 that day and ran to see what was happening. She was shocked and immediately called for help from others in road,” she explained. Jansen and her son are currently living in a room with a Christian family in the same street. As a Muslim, it was extremely difficult for them to live in a non-Islamic environment.
“We have no choice as they were the only people to open their homes to us when the fire took place. We have to go to another Muslim neighbour to make salah throughout the day and especially with Ramadan coming up, I don’t know what we will do. I make dua that Allah grants us something by then Insha Allah,” she said.
Various Muslim community leaders and organizations have come forward to donate clothing and food over the past few months. “Alhamdulilah we have received over enough clothing to wear since the fire broke out and food has been donated for the first few weeks. However, with no one employed in our family and in the home we are living at, it is difficult getting in money to keep up,” she said.
Jansen said that nothing had been done yet with their home and that the foundation is still standing empty on their premises. “It had been standing like this since March and we only recently managed to clear up the damage as the council never did anything to help us out. Alhamdullilah, I was donated R700 by House of Monatic and I managed to get someone to clear it up as no one wanted to do it for free.”
She also approached various organizations asking for assistance to help the family get back on their feet. “We went to a couple of places including Muslim Hands and are still waiting on their calls. My elder brothers have also helped us and are contributing with food and money especially now that we are living in a Christian home. Food is the most difficult thing, because they don’t eat halal food.”
To get the reconstruction of their home underway, they need bricks and other building material. She said that friends and family have already managed to get businesses to contribute certain material thus far. “I thank those who have come forward to help us. At the moment we are trying to get bricks to build a shelter over our heads at least Insha Allah.”
Jansen pleaded with the community to assist in any way possible, and said she was even prepared to work to afford the money for the building of her home. She is currently unemployed and earns a meagre income with odd jobs. “I am still in shock and I cannot believe what has happened. I am glad that no one was in the house at the time. I make dua that Allah makes it easy for us, Insha Allah,” she said.
If you would like to contribute towards the Jansen family, you can contact Fariedah Jansen on 074 510 4859. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Sunday, 1 July 2012

Fasting course commences

As Muslims prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, Madrasatur Raoof in Highlands Estate will once again be hosting a ‘Fiqh of Fasting' program, to enlighten people on the laws of fasting. The institute is calling on the broader community to join this beneficial program during the month of July. Facilitator Sheik Munier Abduraouf said after last year’s successful Ramadan programs, they are happy to bring it back to the community again.

"This year’s course will be a lot deeper and will be focusing on everything regarding fasting. We will also be looking at the conditions of fasting e.g. when or when not one is allowed to fast, penalties of sleeping with ones wife during Ramadan and everything one needs to know from the very beginning.” Abduraouf said the program will be conducted by three qualified Shari'ah graduates from the Islamic University of Madina in Saudi Arabia and is encouraging the community to participate and benefit from the beneficial course.

The cost of the course is R150 and includes registration cost, notes as well as a certificate of attendance. "A certificate will be handed to those who participated in the course during the month upon their successful completion. We are encouraging young adult’s especially to join us on this program, Insha Allah.” He added that they are looking at working with a class of 25 - 30 students this year.

Classes will take place in the Madrassatur Raoof lecture room via PowerPoint presentation on 1, 8, 15 and 22 July starting at 9am sharp to 12:30pm. If you would like to know more on this course and are interested in registering yourself, you may contact Sheik Muneer Abduraoaf on 021 823 7572 or you may also secure a seat at the course by sending an SMS with your full name and cellular phone number to 081 270 7585. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Ashley Kriel Remembered

After 25 years since the death of 20 year old South African youth activist Ashley Kriel, killed by police for his role in advocating anti-apartheid actions in 1987, political activists continue to commemorate his contribution towards youth in the community. The Ashley Kriel Commemoration Team (AKCT) is inviting youth to join them on Monday 9 July at the Bonteheuwel Civic Centre, to mark the day that Kriel’s life was ended.

Ruben Engel, one of the team members of the Ashley Kriel Commemoration Team, said they are looking at inviting over 300 youth in grade 10 & 11 from various schools in Bonteheuwel and the broader community. “We are mobilizing various youth to attend the evening as it is specifically geared towards them. We will have lots of local celebrities, politicians, community leaders and live music by inspiring local artists as part of the evening which we intend to educate, entertain and inspire the attending youth,” he said.

Amongst the honourary guests on the list include the Kriel Family, Cosatu Western Cape secretary-general Tony Ehrenreich, DA Parliamentry leader Lindiwe Mazibuko, Bonteheuwel ward councillors, community representatives and members from the police. He added that amongst others speakers, IJR representatives, Peter Jacobs and Emile Jansen will also be present.

He said that the tribute will be prepared from various schools and upliftment programmes in the Bonteheuwel area. “We are in contact with various schools and youth organizations in the area and will be making contact with relevant political and various religious church youth organizations in the next few days,” he said. Excerpts from the documentary ‘Action Kommandant’, a film marking the 25th anniversary of the freedom fighter will also be played on the day. The film aims to educate youth about who Kriel was and to inspire positive action in their lives.

“The event is specifically targeted at youth and not really intended for general public, but awareness around the event will be made. Therefore we would like to invite the broader youth in various communities to come and attend on the day and show their support.” The remembrance evening will be starting at 6pm till 8pm on the day. If you would like to know more on this event or how you can contribute, please email AKCT members Nadine Cloete cloete.nadine@gmail.com or Ruben Engel on rbn.engel@gmail.com . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)