Aishah Cassiem: October 2012

Thursday, 25 October 2012

MA join cancer fight

As VOC took up the fight against cancer on Global Pink Hijab Day on Wednesday, a group of motor-racing enthusiasts are also doing their bit to promote cancer awareness.the cancer cause. Other than fast cars and fancy modifications, staff at Mag Addiction Centre in Grassy Park are also dedicating some of their time to cancer victims.
As part of corporate social responsibility, staff at Mag Addiction Centre in Grassy Park have been donating 10% of their sales to a particular cancer group every Monday in October, deviating from their normal business of fast cars and fancy modifications. Speaking to VOC, Shamiel Reganie, the manager at the centre, said it was time the company gave back to the community.
“We felt it was important to do something from our side by supporting this serious illness,” he said. “There are many other things that one can raise funds for, but this time we chose to look at cancer, and we will be donating the funds to a group called Survivors of Cancer. ”The group is affiliated to the Cancer Association of South Africa, also known as CANSA, a non-profit organisation established to fight cancer and offer support cancer patients and their families. The organisation hosts awareness programmes every month to educate the public on early detection and treatment.
“We have been sponsoring them with travel expenses, caps, sweaters and lots more for the duration of their programmes. We are willing to spread the awareness and feel that it is important that the community join in, insha’Allah.” Raganie said his passion for the cause was spurred on by his personal experience with those affected by cancer.
“Unfortunately, not many of them have made it and had passed away over the years. We have a family member who is also affected by the illness and this has really opened our eyes,” he continued. He said although Mag Addiction has taken on the challenge to support cancer for the first time this year, they see it as a long-term project.
“I don’t want this to end here. I want to challenge other businesses as well to take on these challenges for a good cause and have various fundraisers, as it will benefit many in our community,” said Raganie. “Many of the people in our community who are supporting our business are affected by cancer, so why not give back to them. What is Mag addiction without our loyal customers?"
The centre will host various events throughout the month for both adults and youth. If you would like to know more about Mag Addiction’s cancer awareness project, you can contact Faizal Reganie on 021 691 7190 or 073 655 4204. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Moulood alive in Melbourne

Hajjah Fatima Asvat from Melbourne AustraliaAishah Cassiem

The tradition of Moulood is an annual spiritual gathering for Muslims within the Cape Town community and in many other parts of the world for many years. For some, thikr has become a monthly fixture to keep Muslims spiritually energized in their communities, but for others, where Muslims are a minority, the lack of a thriving Islamic culture can create a spiritual vacuum.
With this in mind, Hajjah Fatima Asvat, who lives in Melbourne, Australia took it upon herself to initiated moulood in her own community. Asvat is the wife of Riyad Asvat, the author of 'Economic Justice and Shari'a in the Islamic State' and a student of Shaykh Abdalqadir as-Sufi and Shaykh Umar Vadillo. South African born, she has been living in the small community for the past 24 years.
"The first few years of living there, I always wondered what I was doing there,” said Asvat, relating her story at a recent women’s conference held at the Jumu'a masjid in Cape Town. “I soon realized that this was my husband’s destiny to be in the Melbourne community and his desire to complete his PhD. I don’t think he would have done it better anywhere else.” Melbourne has a small Muslim community of only four families. To keep their faith alive, they have Islamic classes every Friday night, said Asvat.
“We use to have it at my home, but then we soon realized that in order for women to participate we were going to have to rotate and have it at different homes.” The Muslim community embarks on various spiritual activities which include recitation of the holy Quran, qasidah groups and many more. “We have four young men who are being taught how to sing the qasidah and I’m very proud to say that since I’ve taught them, they are doing really good,” she said. “They are learning more and more every day and we have seen a great improvement, alhamdulilah.”

Starting the moulood

The small community have been hosting moulood celebrations for the last three years and its been a positive influence on university students. "Although people were having moulood privately, they were actually afraid to come out and do it in a big way. This is when my husband decided he is going to host a moulood in a small public venue and invite different groups to attend," said Asvat.
“The first time we hosted it, I thought to myself, how are we are going to make this a success because it’s going to take a lot of money to feed all these people. My husband told me that if our intentions are good than Allah (swt) will make it easy for us. Then when the time came, we had a huge event with lots of food and everything you will find at a moulood event. I still don’t know where the money came from, alhamdullilah.”
Asvat related that Australian Muslims from various nationalities came to the event and were amazed by the uplifting feel and the sense of community togetherness at a moulood. This spurred them on to host a bigger moulood and this year, more people attended along with guests from Sri Lanka. “The problem in Australia is that it’s a multicultural country with lots of Turks, Bosnians and Albanians. They are very tight and therefore we host these events with the aim of bringing them together all in the name of Allah,” she said.
“Alhamdulillah, that is the way of doing things and hopefully it opens the hearts of people.” This small act of remembrance has had a positive impact on the Melbourne Muslim community - a tradition they hope to keep alive. “We hope to grow our community and become like other Muslim communities, insha Allah. But it is only through the blessing of Allah (swt), who gives life to our small community, for through him we have what we have here today.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Norwich Muslims growing

Malika Abdurahman from Norwich Muslim community.

Islam has increased tremendously over the past few decades and Muslims from various communities across the world are using da’wah as a means of calling people to understand Islam. And women, often taking the roles of educators and care-givers, are at the forefront of da'wah. In this regard, a ladies conference was held at the Jumu'a masjid in Orange Street as part he 2012 Moussem in honour of world renowned Sheik Dr Abdalqadir As-Sufi.
Various Muslim women from around the world attended the event and were given the opportunity to speak about their experience as a Muslim female in their home country. Speaking about her life in Norwich in the UK, Malika Abdur Rahman said there has been great progression within the community, as many Muslim women and youth become more active in Islam.
“Things never used to be the way it is in our community today. It has changed a lot for our young people and their involvement in Islam. Both young men and woman were put together as a core group to help with the emirate, and many of us have since been working on the mosque management committee," she said. Abdur Rahman said they recently acquired a huge building next to the community masjid. The premises was once an orphanage home for girls in the late 1800. In more recent years it was a refugee space for woman and has been empty for the past three years now. "We recently went to the city council and said we want the building and we got it...”

Exciting time

She said they were granted a 15 year lease on the building and aim to create a great atmosphere in the centre of Norwich. “It’s an exciting time for us and an absolutely huge project we will be working on. Our intention for the basement is to create it into a cafe and restaurant space, with the middle floor for a wellbeing and health centre and the top floor for our operating offices.”
The community has beneficial thikrs every fourth night to strengthen and keep themselves on the right track. "We are very much blessed to have some great sheiks who are at all times with us. We have classes as well, which teach us all aspects of Islam,” she said. “Some of the teachings that we are taught are from Sheik Abdalqadir As-Sufi and his book ‘Indications from Signs’.”
She said women are also allowed to attend various classes throughout the week and a madrassa is opened to all Muslim children for two hours after school. Whilst they used to celebrate Eid in the community mosque, now it’s different. Abdur Rahman said they are now sourcing larger venues and recently hired an activity centre where they had rope climbing and various activities and games for the families. “The young people love to have fun and it was really good. We also had a bit of comedy that was performed and sketches about the community were on show that got everyone involved. Although we had comedy programs and light fun, we also looked at the seriousness of the day.”
Because Norwich is small, the Muslim community has a very prominent presence in the area. “We have lots of activities and projects in our Norwich community that I would like you to read about. The Muslim community is very strong and we are always finding ways to strengthen and broaden it. I am hope that Allah will grant you the ability to visit our community soon, inshallah.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Saturday, 20 October 2012

Swiss Muslims growing

FEATURE - "We are only a handful of Muslim people in the Swiss community, but we are trying our best to grow Islam and pass on the teachings.” This was the start of a conversation with Hajjah Hajar Mossiman, who hails from a small town in Switzerland. The elderly woman came to speak about her experience as a Muslim female in her community at a recent conference held at the Jumu’a masjid in Cape Town.
The Swiss Muslims are one of many small communities around the world who lack prayer facilities and Islamic classes for women and men. Many of these Muslims struggle to benefit from the teachings of Islam. However, after a great effort from the passionate community a few years ago, Muslim residents are now able to benefit from a small Jamaat khana in the area.
Mossiman along with her translator Hajjah Khadija Leuenberger spoke about the expansion of the Swiss Muslim community. “A few years ago Sheik Abdalqadir sent us to Hafith Abdellah Castineira and his wife, Aisha Hernandez. He told us to find a room that will be solely for the purpose of thikr and prayers in jamaah,” she recalled. The community acquired a room and soon after immediately started Qur'an classes with Hafith Abdellah.
“Not only have we started to do our prayers and thikrs in this space, but we also made use of it during the month of Ramadan where we finished our taraweeh salaah every night," she said. “Everybody has been happy and content with the facility since we have it. It has strengthened the Muslim community by bringing us closer to each other.” Mossiman added that like any small community, this one has its factions and politics. “We always find a way to make up and keep our Muslim community strong.”
She said the leader of the small jamaah now offers various Islamic classes throughout the week. Every Wednesday Hafiz Abdellah gives of his time to teach the community both hifz and the Quran. On Friday, residents will all gather for Jumu'a prayers as a group, and will have thikr to maintain a sense of spiritual upliftment. “Many of us are grateful for this and have benefited from it, alhamdulillah.”
She said the number of people attending the thikrs has increased over the past few years. “Since we started the monthly thikrs, the crowd has surprisingly got bigger with many people from Italy, England and other countries attending.” With her time being spent in Cape Town for the past couple of days, she is thankful for the respect and hospitality that has been shown to her from the Muslim community in the Mother City.

European Muslim Union

Another guest speaking at the conference was Hajjah Sumayya who spoke about the European Muslim Union (EMU). The union was established to serve the Muslim community in Europe and to promote and facilitate the dialogue and mutual improvement of the host societies and the Muslims, where the Muslim communities live in minority. Sumayya was recently appointed as the women’s coordinator of EMU.
"My message is to promote the union as we are about bringing together experience and generations of all kinds.” The organizations goal is to also establish a European foundation for a Muslim corporation progress in future. At a gathering last month, members lauded the contribution of women representatives in the union.
"The good points that came out was that of opening more women forums and independent youth groups for Muslims, which we are looking to do in the future," she said. “Where ever we stand this is where we need to participate and it’s not about competition but rather that of cooperation,” she said. If you would like to know more about the European Muslim Union, you can visit the union’s webpage at www.emunion.eu VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Teaching Quran in Morocco

FEATURE - About 14 190 residents are situated in Kalaat M'Gouna, a quiet town in the Ouarzazate province of Morocco. Amongst the population lives a small Muslim community who bear the daily struggle of implementation of the holy Quran of which many have not heard of before. Khouloud Elboumashouli, a young Muslim female from the small town was amongst many foreigners who attended a women’s conference held at the Jumua masjid in Cape Town on Tuesday 9 October.
Elboumashouli who serves and teaches Arabic to young Berbers (Al-Mazigh) in the Zawiyya of Moulay Abdal Malik in her town, said after being married for eight years, she and her husband Shaykh Murtada Elboumashouli continue to help Muslim men and women with their day to day challenges and the teaching of the Quran.
“Many people in Kalaat M’Gouna have no idea what Arabic is. In Morocco there are different types of Berbers and a particular group of them are in our town who knows nothing about the language,” she said. “At the moment I teach the illiterate as well as young women. I want to specifically implement the language to them as much as I can so that they can read the Quran fluently.”
Elboumashouli said she had seen a great improvement in the women in the community. "Alhamdulillah, in these few years of my marriage, the women have started reading the Quran and speaking from it.” At first women were not allowed to study and could not to do much in the community. According to her, they never knew anything about the world outside their own. “Now it is different and the Zawiyya is bigger," she said.

Zawiyya history

The Zawiyya goes back a very long time ago and was filled with a host of scholars and sheiks. It was a place where one would study all different types of sciences like fiqh, Arabic and jurisdiction, said Elboumashouli. “The Zawiyya is based on a very sensitive time in Morocco. During this period they were very prejudiced against the Arab Berbers and the sheiks had a lot of clashes with Berbers because they always worked to help people with marriages and disputes.”
“Then one day rain came down and destroyed the whole Zawiyya. Soon after a new generation came, along with Shaykh Murtada, who wanted to continue the message of Islam,” added Elboumashouli. She said that Muslims within the community plan to build a bigger Zawiyya than the one that had previously been destroyed. “There is one at the moment, but we want to make it bigger and once we have succeeded with this, there will be a matter of great implementation of the teaching of the Quran, its haadiths and many more, inshallah.”
Elboumashouli said not only have the community been implementing the Quran and its language, but they have also promoted taariqa’s amongst men and women for the past few years. “We want the community to grow and hopefully it will. I am grateful to be part of the Muslim community and only wish that I could speak English so that I could pass on the message of Islam to many more around the world inshallah.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Fundraising for Aqueelah

The family of six year old Aqueelah Williams is calling on the community to support their upcoming fundraiser event in aid of the little girl’s second cochlear implant. Speaking to VOC Afternoon Cruise in a plea to raise funds, Beulah Williams said after a successful implant last year, they are now faced with another financial challenge. “We were approached by Aqueelah’s doctor a few weeks’ ago. He said that her right ear had also been deteriorated, and therefore she needs another implant as soon as possible,” said Williams.
“Last year we managed to collect the full amount of R250,000 for her operation - alhamdulillah it was successful. However with the unfortunate news, we have no choice but to raise that full amount again.” Williams said many friends and family members have already come forward to support the little girl. “We decided that we going to have a market day to raise funds for Aqueelah,” said Williams. “This is one of many fundraisers and I therefore urge the community to support my grandchild.”
The concerned grandmother said the market day will be an opportunity for the family to raise the majority of funds needed. “Not only will we be collecting funds, but people will also have an opportunity to bring their whole family and enjoy themselves with the various activities that we have set out for the day.” A variety of entertainment will be available on the day which includes the Hout Bay Brass Band. The well-known brass band will invite the community to the event by marching down various streets making their way to the center. “We will also have activities for adults and children, as well as various food and clothing stalls available for people to enjoy.”
The market day will take place on Saturday 3 November at the Weltervreden Recreational Centre in Rocklands. Ten stalls are still available to book and those who would like to sell goods on the day are to contact stall coordinators as soon as possible. If you would like to know more about the market day in aid of Aqueelah Williams’s cochlear operation, please contact Beulah Williams on 021 465 9228 or 0780313779. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Friday, 19 October 2012

NH turns 130

The Nazareth House has been serving the community of Cape Town for more than a decade providing vulnerable children and elderly with care and love. This month, caregivers at the home are calling on the public to support them as they host the organisation’s first huge fun fair in commemoration of its 130th anniversary.
Speaking to VOC, Sister Margaret Hope, a social worker at Nazareth House said members of the organisation have been working hard to make the special event a success. “We have been planning this fun fair for a very long time and this will be our first huge event,” said Hope. “We have many more fundraiser’s coming up, but this particular one is special, and I would love the community to come out and get to know these great people living at the home."
Food, crafts, design and decor are amongst the many exhibitions stalls that will be available on the day. There will also be a 'Flavours of the World’ food extravaganza that will be available for the two days. Hope advised carnival goers to try some of the world most delicious foods and sweets ranging from India, England, SA, Malaysia and lots more.
A variety of entertainment is set for the weekend anddvised people to come early to get a taste of the full programme. “We will be having various singers along with some great activities which include sumo wrestling, Babble Ball, Xbounce and Battle Gladiator. It will be catered for both adults and children,” she said. Hope said the proceeds of the fun fair will contribute to various needs at the home. “We are dependent on the public to feed and care for these people. The number of children and elderly who are being admitted to the home is increasing tremendously and therefore we need to be on our feet at all times,” she said.

Desperate cases

“Sadly, there are many elderly people still on the waiting list, to be moved over to our home, but because there are many little kids coming in at all times, we are forced to take in the most desperate cases of homeless kids,” she said. There are many homes in Cape Town who can take these kids in, but if they are unable to, the facility has no choice but to intervene. "These kids need to be accommodated as soon as possible and cannot be left alone on streets any longer.”
The elderly taken in are mostly from hospitals in the city. Many of them had strokes and are not able to cope on their own anymore. They need nursing care at all times. Many of them are visited by family and friends, but there are a few cases where some are not visited by family at all. She said it is important that the humanitarian home networks with other organisations. “We work with similar homes in Cape Town as well as the local hospital and the South African Police Services. Working with the police service helps us to determine where children are left abandoned and caught up in terrible situations." The organisation has a 24 hour service available to the vulnerable at all times.
Meanwhile, coordinators are calling on the public to drop off wearable clothing and food items at the home. “Some of these items will be sold on the day of the event to raise funds for the home. The food items will contribute to the dishes that will be served at the fun fair,” she said. “However, we have charitable shops available to the public every month and are contributing tremendously to the needs of the home. If you are able to donate any of these items please do come forward."
The special event is set for Friday 26 and Saturday 27 October and will be held at the Nazareth House in Vredehoek. Entry fee for adults are only R25 per person and R15 for pensioners and children under the age of 18. If you would like to know more on the Nazareth House or how you can contribute towards the home, you can contact Beverly Florence or Gayenor Milne at 021-461 1635. You can also visit the home’s webpage at www.nazhouse.org.za. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Longing for Baadi

Muhammad Baadi with the VOC staff at an outside broadcast in 2003VOC

“It’s been a very long time since I’ve seen Baadi. I took him as my own son and he called me his Maamu. I fell in love with this amazing street child since the day I saw him. Today I have no clue of his whereabouts. I miss him dearly and long to be reunited…” These were the heartfelt words of a teary eyed 77 year old pensioner from Heathfield as she sits gripping to her dress in search of 17 year old Abdul Baadi Dollie.
Longing to be reunited with the boy, Fariedah Lukie said she still remembers the boy’s face since taking him off the streets seven years ago. The elderly woman met Abdul Baadi in Woodstock in 2003 when he had been selling incense sticks door to door. She soon realised that he was the soul supporter for his family at the tender age of only ten years old.
“One day he came to my door and knocked. I asked him to sit down and we had a conversation. After speaking I thought to myself what an intelligent little boy he is, and felt quite sorry for him knowing that the only income was that of the incense sticks he was selling. I invited him to visit me again, and with the permission of his mother, he came to visit me and stayed with me throughout the school holidays,” she said. “Soon after enjoying the visits and sleep overs during the holidays, it was decided that he would move in with my husband and I. He had his own room and loved playing in it...I gave him everything a mother would want to give her child.”
Lukie said a radio programme was conducted on the little boy’s life at the time and various community members came forward to support him. “The Voice of the Cape invited him to speak about his life. Many people thought he was a brave child being the sole supporter of his family at a young age,” said Lukie. “The programme was a success and many people came to know about him. I was concerned about him as there are so many children on the streets like Baadi,” said the teary eyed care giver. “There are many more who need support and a loving touch from elder people.”
“The sad part about this little boy’s life was that he never really saw his father. There would be times at night, where he would come to sit next to me and say that he never knew what it is like to be part of a family until he moved in with us.” Lukie said although the boy lived a happy life with her, her husband at the time never accepted him, leaving her no choice but to hand over the boy to new foster parents a few months later. The boy later moved to Delft with Ruwaidah Dollie and her three sons.

Hardships

“He stayed with Ruwaidah and her sons at the time and she received a grant for him. Unfortunately, things started going back to normal for Baadi, as the life he lived there was not easy for him anymore,” said Lukie. “There would be many days that he would miss out on school work at Rahmaniyah Primary because of no transport fees. I know that he loved the school very much and it was sad to hear that he was losing out on a great education.”
Lukie said the last time she visited the boy at the Delft home, he was not happy. “He was very emotional and I could see he was not happy being in his new home. I took him out to get extra clothing on the same day and spent some time with him,” she said. “When I phoned him a few weeks later, I discovered that Ruwaidah had left the home due to her son’s extreme addiction on drugs. It had become uncontrollable for her and I learned that her sons would beat Baadi up when his grant money would be discussed.”
She said the boy had become used to the abuse over the years and feared it might have changed his personality. It’s been a very long time since I’ve spoken to him and people said that he had left Ruwaidah’s home and gone back to his mother in Blikkiesdorp,” said Lukie. “I have asked a couple of people to take me to the area to look for him, but no one seemed to help me. I need to go out to see if he is okay and that he is being fed.”
“There are a lot of disadvantaged people in the area and good children like Baadi living amongst them,” she said. “I want to take a few clothing and food items to the area and at the same time search for this boy.” She said that the last time she communicated with his mother was when he lived with her. His mother, Wedaad and stepfather Yaseen, were both on tik at the time.
"I make duah that he does not engage in that environment as well,” she said. “I only hope the best for him and I wish I could see him again to remind him about Allah swt. The things he did when he was younger made me believe that he was a very special child, and therefore I continuously make du’a that someone will take him to a better place Inshallah.”

Memories

“He asked me one day ‘Maamu if I plant dhanya, will I get rich?' I just sat there laughing looking in his angelic face,” said Lukie, thinking back. “I remember my husband calling me one night. Although he was not fond of Baadi, he insisted that I come quick. When I got to the room I just started bursting into tears as I watched Baadie making salaah on the bed.”
Lukie said she knew him as a very loving and respectful child who always wanted to learn more. "He loved watching movies and one specific movie he liked was ‘Pearl Harbour’. He enjoyed as cream as well and just couldn’t get enough of it." She has many memories with the boy, many of which she will never forget. She urged the community to help her find the boy as soon as possible.
“It is difficult for me to go out to Blikkiesdorp at this age and especially knowing that I am on my own. I am sitting with a bag full of clothing and food to take to him. If anyone can tell me where he is then please come forward,” she said. “I long for this child who I have once cared for in my home. I treated him as my own son and he is still a son in my eyes. I truly miss him and still dearly love him.”
If you know of the whereabouts of Abdul Baadi Dollie or would like to help the concerned woman search for him, please contact Fariedah Lukie on 0217126711 or 0741823968. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Wednesday, 10 October 2012

Silat raises funds

The Pukulan Melaka Silat Club in Cape Town is calling on the community to help them raise funds for their upcoming trip to Malaysia and Thailand. The silat group are set to depart on Monday 29h October and according to Pukulan Melaka Silat SA manager, Faheem Jackson, in order to bring back specialised, essential equipment, the fundraising is needed.
“If we can make this collection drive a success than many of our students will benefit from the equipment that we aim to purchase,” he said. “The equipment that we aim to buy on our tour includes various training weapons and sport equipment as well as protective gears, mats, books, uniforms, DVDs, traditional costumes and lots more.”
Silat has become a popular form of sport amongst youth in Cape Town. “Many of our youth have discovered their desire to practice this martial art, originating from Indonesia. We have many parents bringing their kids to the club for self discipline and self defense and it has helped tremendously,” he said. “When we first opened the club no one knew what silat was. In 1998 we promoted and invited people to join us. This is when it became known to our local community.”
Tuan Mogamat Hartley, the chairman of the South African Pencak Silat Association (SAPSA), said the sport is not only a form of martial arts, but also a development in both physical and spiritual training. Silat looks at breathing and movement practices which are very helpful. "It is a great sport and we often do it on open grounds. It has really grown in our community over the past few years and has benefitted many youth and adults," he said.
"The standard of silat in other countries is very high and therefore when we go over to these counties we want to get as much training from professions,” said Hartley. The instructors will be training with two of the world greatest silat professors and are hoping to come back with useful skills to show other students in future. Hartley said he hopes to take a full team with on the trip. “We want all of these students to go with and therefore need to raise funds for a full team. We want to prepare them for the next silat tournament and hoping that they will do us proud, insha Allah,’’ he said.
For more details, please contact Jackson on 071 869 8240. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

UWC lab upgraded

Pre-clinical laboratory in Mitchells Plain Oral Health CenterUWC

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) recently launched a new technical laboratory for dentistry students at the Mitchells Plain Melomed Center. Speaking to VOC, Dean of the faculty Professor Yusuf Osman, said the aim of the upgrade is to benefit current and future students studying in the field. “I am really happy to know that many of these dentistry students will now be able to train in specialized labs,” said Osman.
“They need to be trained in an area similar to what they can expect in future, and therefore it is necessary to create that environment for them to work in." He said all students will be trained in the lab for nine months. “It is going to be a challenging time for these students. They need the exposure of working with patients and therefore we want them to become confident in what they doing,” said Osman. “These few months we want to fit in as much training as possible, and hopefully when they leave they’ll get the feeling of the real world.”
Osman said although dentistry students study five years to become professionals, they still need to be challenged before taking on people. “We cannot send these students out if they are not ready. They need to be trained and should know how to handle patients in a careful and respectful way,” he said. “They will be working with people from all over the world and should consider that it’s not just about getting a job done, but that there are also various diseases traveling around very fast.”
Training is important and it is very essential that everything is in a sterile environment. Students need to be aware of these things and should make sure that everything is done correctly, Osman explained. “These kids are lucky to train at the new lab and they will be using expensive equipment which will surely develop various skills within them,” said Osman. “I was in Belgium last year and when I entered their labs, I was not impressed. Our students are really lucky to have these upgrades and should make the most of it.”
Meanwhile, Osman said many matriculants have already made application for dentistry for the upcoming year. “We get about 700 applications for dentistry every year and only 100 students are chosen for the course. It is a lot of money that they are spending so we want to give them the best training as possible.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Help for little Ilhaam

The mother of a five year old girl suffering from bacterial meningitis is hoping a charity benefit will alleviate some of the stress of her daughter’s medical expenses. Five year old Ilhaam Tofie was diagnosed with the rare disease at only six months old and her legs and fingers have since been amputated. Speaking to VOC, in a plea to raise funds, Shamielah Dollie said in order for her daughter to continue with various therapy sessions and the necessary medication, she is forced to seek assistance.
“It is hard to watch your child grow up with excessive pain knowing that there is nothing you can do about it,” said the teary-eyed mother. “Since she’s been diagnosed, it’s been a very hard for the family trying to raise funds. She was put through various operations in her early stages and everything seemed fine, until doctors called us a few months ago.”
Five years has gone by and the little girl was still fighting on. She had a follow up operation in Ramadan where doctors further amputated her knees. “Although she goes through this pain, there is always a smile on her face ...she is tough. She is doing very well at the moment and still bound to her wheel chair,” she said. “As a mother it is not a great position to be in. I was forced to become a tough person and it is not easy,” she said.
“I stay positive and her great enthusiasm...that’s what keeps me going.” Dollie said despite the girl’s condition, she is excited to start Grade R in 2013. “She is hyped about being with other kids, she can’t wait any more. Teachers and learners at the school are very considerate when it comes to Ilhaam,” she said. “I am happy that the school that she will be going to is willing to accommodate her with her condition and they seem to love her.
"My family and friends are also very helpful when it comes to my daughter. They love her..." Dollie was hopeful that with the many fundraiser events that the family will be hosting, they would be able to cover her medical expenses. "I need the assistance of the community to make this a success insha Allah,” she urged.

The fundraiser will take place on Saturday 17 November in Ottery HalI. Tickets are sold at R60 and can be purchased at the entrance on the day. If you would like to know more on the fundraiser for little Ilhaam Tofie or how you can contribute towards the family, you can contact Shamielah Dollie on 076 2631077. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Moussem draws crowd

It was a hectic day on Friday for coordinators of the annual ‘2012 Moussem' program, which honoured world renowned Sheik Dr Abdalqadir As-Sufi. More than 400 Muslims from around the world packed the Jumu'a masjid in Orange Street with many left standing, unable to get a seat inside the masjid. Speaking to VOC, Muhajir Harron one of the coordinators of the event, said this year’s Moussem was well attended.
“I am quite amazed to see the amount of people who showed up for Jumuah on Friday,” said Harron. “We expected a lot of people to be at the event and I am glad to say that we got more than what we expected. We had visitors from all over the world along with a few well known international sheiks who participated in the Jumu'a proceedings."
The weekend long program proceeded straight after Esha on Friday. “We had about 150 local Muslims from the Cape Town community who attended the thikr on Friday night. It was very relaxed with a great atmosphere,” he said. “The main thikr is set for Saturday and Sunday and we are expecting over 400 people. It is going to be a great weekend and food will be served after each thikr insha Allah,” he added.
A huge marquee was also setup in the front section of the masjid on Friday. “We allowed women and men to sell their goodies which ranged from traditional clothing, foods and various spices,” he said. “We had many support from both local and international visitors, leaving the area packed after Jumuah.” Harron said locals do not have to travel far places to meet Muslims from other countries, where they can experience it all in one event.
“I would love the locals in Cape Town to join us this weekend so that they can experience something new. It is not a group thing like people assume it to be, but rather something beneficial for the broader community,” said Harron. “Many of our locals said they enjoyed the company of various nationalities and are hyped for next two days.”
Jamaludeen Khan (33), one of many who attended the event said he enjoyed being in the company of Muslim foreigners. “People travel from all over the world to attend this annual gathering. You find yourself standing and sitting next to people-speaking different languages. Many of them are white-skinned and blue-eyed,” said Khan. “Muslims are found across the world, of all races, but we don’t have too many white Muslims in Cape Town so it's a pleasant and diverse experience."
Khan said the event was also an opportunity for him to catch up with friends whom he has not seen in months. “I had a very good time at the Qadiriyah Moussem of Sheik Abdul Qadir as-Sufi with the Murabitun brothers on Friday. Some of my close friends are part of their group, and I haven't seen them in a while.”
The event has not only brought Muslims from all over the world to join in on the celebration, but it has also attracted many local non-Muslims. Standing on the opposite side of the masjid, Glenda Thomas, 26, stared on in amazement as she watched the crowd enter the premises. “It’s very beautiful to see these men, women and children come together on Friday afternoons,” she said.
“I walk pass the religious house every week and at many times I stop to see what’s happening. Today it’s different and it is much more crowded than other times,” said Thomas. “It’s amazing to see Muslim women dressed up from head to toe, but yet they still draw attention. It’s beautiful and shows another side of women giving a whole new meaning of beauty.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Fakier to cover haj

An elated Goolam Fakier leaves Thursday at 7.30am to cover haj for VOC this year.

Patience and perseverance are the two fundamental qualities required of all hujjaj as they fulfill the final pillar of Islam and for VOC's technical manager, responsible for technical maintenance, outside broadcast and scheduling, Goolam Fakier, the last month was good practise. After being chosen by VOC to cover haj for the station and having applied for haj accreditation as a first time haji, he had to suffer the disappointment of not being accredited on any of the four lists the South African Haj and Umrah Council (Sahuc) released.
When it became clear that none of the countries who applied for increases to their quota would be successful due to a shortage of space in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, VOC had to make special efforts to apply to the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Pretoria for a visa in order to continue its tradition of covering haj live annually. As motivation, the station explained that this annual coverage since 1995 has helped to inspire listeners to perform haj.
For Fakier, the wait was long, but finally this week he was notified that his application had been successful and that he would be among the final SA hujjaj to depart this week. But for Fakier - a father of three - just knowing that he will be able to perform haj is a good enough. "The last two months, waiting on news from the embassy, has been very difficult and truly a big test for me," he related on Tuesday morning.

Power of dua

"I would go to the office of my station manager three times a day to ask if there was any news and was told constantly to just remain firm and keep making dua. It would leave me feeling very dispondent and I was very, very, very close to giving up. Then this week the embassy informed our haj panel that we were successful and I was called on the phone about it on my way home from work yesterday."
Having asked to leave early since he was down with the flu, Fakier said, he was unable to contain his emotions. "The tears just rolled down my face. I forgot all the aches and pains and just thanked my Creator, right there sitting in my car. I could really see how Allah had tested my iman and it is a test I will never forget for it showed me the power of dua."
Part of the test, he said, was making peace with the fact that he might not be able to perform haj this year. "I had to make peace with the fact that although my name may have been called among millions of Muslims in the world, that alone was enough...whether I performed haj this year or in future. It was an honour just to know the possibility existed that I might perform haj. I really had become content with that. But then to be told that I would be going...!"

Coverage

Fakier is the latest VOC staffer to be sent on his first haj whilst covering the biggest annual gathering of Muslims for VOC. Last year presenter Jamiel Wallace covered haj, preceded by Muhammad Faseegh Petersen in 2010 and Muhammad Zain Majiet in 2009. According to Fakier, Majiet had been a big inspiration in his haj preparation.
In previous years the station opted to have only staffers who had performed haj previously cover the event for the station so as not to intrude in their ibada. However, with haj authorities now eliminating repeat hujjaj, a change in the policy became necessary. This made it possible for a number of VOC staff to also perform their fard haj.
"He was incredibly supportive and kept motivating me whilst helping me to prepare for haj and for that I cannot thank him enough. I used whatever spare time I had to study up on my haj, reading as much as I could, attending as many classes as I could manage, watching DVD's. With so many people giving advice, it could become confusing, but I've decided to stick to the advice that correllate and stay focused," he said.
The waiting, Fakier said, also helped to prepare him spirtually for the next month ahead. "I'm not the most patient person in the world and through this process, I have had to learn to have sabr," he chuckled. I've also become much closer to my Creator, asking Him for lots of guidance, keeping my tongue wet with reciting Quran...all in preparation. But I also know this is only the beginning. The true test still lies ahead and I pray that I may be up to the task, insha Allah."
Fakier expressed his sincere thanks to his family, friends and listeners who had been very supportive and pledged to keep them informed on this year's haj to the best of his ability. "We are finalising the link up times today, but we hope to make the link up as spiritual and informative as possible. Also, having successfully used 3G connections for our local outside broadcasts, we are hopeful that the nightly link ups will also be of better quality than before, insha Allah."
Besides filing daily on air link ups during the main days of haj due in two weeks, VOC onliners will also be able to stay tune to Fakier's regular haj blog on this website. Fakier will be departing from Cape Town at 7.30am on Thursday. VOC

Tuesday, 2 October 2012

Homeless teens feared

As Muslims, we grow up with the understanding and ethos of giving towards the needy around us, for this is one of the greatest deeds in life. Despite many organisations and shelters in existence to care for displaced kids, we still find many homeless teens living on the streets battling to survive. In Cape Town, more than 2,000 children under the ages of 18 roam around the streets for survival, with many being physically and verbally abused by people around them, amongst them security workers, business people and members of the public.
This is a huge social problem affecting the self esteem of homeless youth, who react to it in a negative way. During a VOC News investigation on the streets of the city, the sentiment ironically was that homeless teens have become more aggressive towards the public. Natalie Solomons, 23, said that police officials need to do something about aggressive teens living in the Cape Town area urgently.

Fear of attack

"I don’t think it is right to wake up every morning for work, fearing these kids at the station, who tend to argue or beat you up because you are not able to give them something,” said Solomons. She claims she experienced it about three times this year. A female approached her asking for a R1 or something to eat, and when Solomons told her she did not have money, she started a verbal rant. “She accused me of lying to her and said that I’m a ‘selfish asshole’. I was extremely shocked by this,” Solomons recalled.
“I didn’t know what to say. In fact I didn’t even want to say anything due her facial expression. She looked as if she was ready to attack me...” Solomons fears walking alone from the bus station and has to wait for a colleague to walk with her to work. "I don’t mind giving these homeless kids something to eat, as I always do. There are many grateful and respectful ones amongst them, but the other kids are just plain disrespectful and extremely aggressive towards the public," she said.
Ridwaan Safadien, 42, from Millerton said that he had been offended on two different occasions by teens living within the bus terminus area. “I gave a young man a loaf of bread which I especially went to go and buy at a supermarket. The next day, he asked me outside my workplace for something to eat. With good intentions within my heart, I used my last few cents to fullfil my promise to him,” said Safadien.
“When I gave it to him, he took it. After a while he looked at it asking me what he must do with a ‘dry’ loaf of bread. I looked at him in amazement replying that he shouldn’t question people in that way." Safadien was furious and shocked at the manner in which the teenager accepted the bread. "He asked if I would eat dry bread on such a warm day. He walked away moaning under his hat with ungratefulness.” Safadien said that he has lost his respect for many homeless people due to some of them being disrespectful and rude.

Desperation

VOC News also spoke to a few teens living on the streets of the CBD area in Cape Town, many who said that living a hard lifestyle is nothing compared to what others think. Sarah, a 17 year old girl, said she ran away from a shelter four years ago to be with her mother. The pair used to live in a small shack on a farm in Sckaapkraal, but were forced to leave the premises due to the owners moving.
When her mother was not able to look after her anymore, Sarah was taken in at a home. "They looked after me and fed me every day, but I wanted to be with my mother,” said Sarah. “How can they remove a child from a mother after building up a strong relationship?” she questioned. “That’s just not fair. We might be poor, but we are still human. I love my mother and we will get through this together..."
The young teen said being homeless is not one of the easiest things to live with. “It is hard for us and for many living on the streets around us. There are always people who approach me and my mommy at times to give us something to eat and we are grateful for it,” she said. “However, there are lots of rude and dangerous youngsters living here too. They are also homeless people, but they are different. They take from those who have little and threaten us if we don’t want to give our things over to them.”
Sarah remembers seeing homeless kids beating each other up because of food or drugs. Most get easily aggressive and mad when they can’t get their way. "I fear these guys. I’ve seem them looking for trouble with people getting out of busses to go to work. They will nag until they get something out of you. Many times, the police have taken them away with the police van, but after a while you’ll find them roaming the streets again," she said.
"Sometimes I feel sorry for some of the people who have to face them in public. But some people are very loud and they chase them away immediately." Sarah said she wished that homeless people would appreciate and respect others. “I think if you act this way and then people will start coming to you to offer their help. There are a lot of nice ladies who work in the area who always talk you me and my mother. If they have food they will give us something to eat and if they don’t, then we respect it.”
Samuel Ndube, 36, said in order to avoid street roamers who are involved in gangs, the safest place for him to sleep at night is near the Company Gardens. “I’ve been sleeping on the streets for the past five years. Some places are really hectic to sleep on but there are a few spots that are safe for me. I’ve seen teens stabbing each other on the streets at night and innocent women getting robbed as they come from work. It is getting out of control. I wish that life could be different and that everyone would just live in peace. Being homeless is not easy but having a strong faithful heart and mind is what keeps me going,” he added.
Substance abuse seems to be the main factor driving this aggression, as homeless teens get caught in a vicious cycle. Last week two young males were found in dead in the street, somewhere near the Castle, an incident said to be drug related. "It is like they don’t take in food but these drugs are what feeds them inside...it’s terrible.”
Ndube believes aggressive teens are becoming out of control and it is putting other homeless people’s lives in danger. However, these wanderers have already moved into suburban communities across Cape Town and are now targeting people more easily, begging for food on peoples door steps. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Monday, 1 October 2012

African ID explored

The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) is showcasing their second African identity documentary project called Shades of Belonging, a youth film that gives thought-provoking insight on various issues that youth in South Africa are faced with. Speaking to VOC, Nosindiso Mtimkulu, the producer for the project, said the film will be screened at the District Six Museum as part of the museum’s Heritage Month theme. “I am quite proud of the team who helped put this piece together. It’s very touching and interesting to watch,” said Mtimkulu.
Although it was launched at the Museum, the filmmakers want to also showcase it at various community halls in Cape Town for interested people to view. The first African identity piece was screened nationwide in different communities across the country last year, revealing the extent to which South African youth where inspired by engagement and conversation about issues affecting them. Mtimkulu said the team chose to be more inclusive with their project this year.
“Regardless of race, religion and creed, we mostly had foreign nationals and black people last year. We decided to be more comprehensive this year and therefore it is mainly white South Africans who feature in this year’s film,” she said. The team gathered 17 participants from all over the country. Ten of them were from SA and the rest where foreign nationals who were based in Cape Town. Each participant was free to talk on their identities and the producers went around to different communities and schools to put the film together, she said.
“A lot of research was done and we made sure that they chose the correct people to feature in the documentary as well,” she added. Mtimkulu said the documentary filmmakers worked hard throughout the year to make the film a success. “We searched for these participants at various schools and universities. In order for them to have been part of the film they had to be over the age of 18 and below 35 years old due to the topic being so important,” she added.
During the time, they were taught certain skills like directing, camera work, script writing and sound. "Once they had the groove of it we sent them on stories and places of their choice to start filming their documentaries,” she said. “A lot of people asked us if this was a competition that the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation was running,” said Mtimkulu. “No it was not, but rather a gift from the Institute to give youth an opportunity and platform to discuss their identity..."
Even though the participants were trained, they had a professional film crew that travelled with them at all times in case anything went wrong. “Shades of Belonging is very powerful and different to last year’s one. I therefore encourage you to come and view it.” If you would like to know more on the Shades of Belonging documentary or how you can make an application to be part of the next documentary, you can contact Nosindiso Mtimkulu on 021 763 7174 or email Nosindiso@ijr.org.za . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Help after vandalism urged

A single mother residing in the Mitchells Plain area is urgently the community to support her in fulfilling a dream of turning an old vandalized house into a suitable home for her five kids. Speaking to VOC, Shehaam Jacobs, 41, said after the City of Cape Town gave her the go ahead to fix the place for herself, she immediately took the opportunity.
The council was planning to demolish the house after residents in the Lentegeur community signed a petition to rid the house of drug dealers who were frequenting there. “I instantly approached City official Dwayne Jacobs when I heard about this. I told him about my condition as a single mother, and this is when he told me to act as soon as possible.” Jacobs said the council promised her the damaged property if she was able to fix the home within the next few weeks.
“This is a very short period and therefore I need to go out and seek assistance to gather necessary items. I don’t want money from the public...all I want is for them is to donate material so that I can put a roof over my kid’s heads,” she urged. “It is hard being a single mother and the only breadwinner in the family, therefore I am forced to ask for help in order to make this a success."
The teary-eyed mother said people have already come forward to donate goods for the vandalized home. “I received a roof last week from my friend, who was able to help me cover half of the house. There are a lot of touch up’s that needs to be looked at on the house, which includes the doors, windows, walls and plumbing.”
She added that the whole house is covered in graffiti and badly damaged from a fire that broke out a few years ago. “I have already started to clear up around the house, clearing out all the rubbish and getting rid of flooded water. I asked the council how much they would charge to collect the packed bags of trash - but they responded with a huge price,” she said.
“I need to wait until I have money again to get rid of the dirt. However, it has caused quite a problem over the past few days.” Jacobs said many community members have already dumped their dirt in front of the property. “Not a lot of people know that we are planning to move in the house, and that’s why people are still using it as a dumping spot."
Jacobs said if her family is able to get sponsors to put a fence around the house than they are more than ready to move in. “I want the house to be closed up because once that is done then the drug dealers will stay away and we will have the right to prevent them from hanging around and dumping things here,” she said.
Jacobs said this is not the only problem she is faced with at the moment. The needy family is currently living in a one-bedroom home and the owners of the property want them gone by the end of October. “I am left with this duration to fix the house, and if it is not done by then, I don’t know where my kids are going to sleep. I don’t get paid much and sometimes my rent money is not enough because I need to see to my kid’s school fees as well as daily food for them to eat,” she explained.
It was also very hard for the children to go to school every day knowing the situation their mother was in. "At many times my youngest son asks me for money so that he can also buy him sweets and chips like his friends do. He is only nine years old and it hurts me knowing that I am not able to give him, when I’m faced with rent and food problems."
"I'm left in a situation that will affect my kids too. I only want the best for them, insha Allah. I am not asking for much and I am only doing this for my kid’s safety, but If there are any Muslim brother sand sisters who are able to help us then please do come forward.” If you would like to more about the family or would like to contribute towards the vandalized house, you can contact Shehaam Jacobs on 074 937 2719 or 074 020 9554. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Jumu'a masjid hosts Moussem

The Jumu’a masjid in Orange Street is calling on the Muslim community of Cape Town to join them as they host a special event in honour of world renowned Sheik Dr Abdalqadir As-Sufi. The ‘Moussem’ which is better known as the ‘nights of thikr, a cultural celebration by Muslims from Morocco, will take place on Friday 5th October up until Sunday 7 October. The renowned alim is the head of the Qadiri-Shadhili-Darqawi Order of Sufism and the founder of the Murabitun World Movement.
As part of the event, a number of various lectures and thikrs will be held at the Jumu'a masjid. The mosque was founded in 2006 by As-Sufi himself and has since grown attracting many Muslims every day. He has resided in Cape Town for the past ten years. The annual event has been attracting hundreds of Muslims from all over the world and will be attended by various well known Qadiri sheiks from South Africa, Pakistan, England, Syria and Morocco.
Speaking to VOC, organiser Aeysha Wright said the event will kick off with a Friday prayer and will be led by well-known scholar - Sheik Mortada Elboumeshouli of Morocco. “This special event will start immediately after jumuah on the day. The next two nights of the Moussem will proceed from 8pm and will be lead by Sheik Abdalqadir himself,” she said. The programme will consist of group recitations out of the holy Quran along with different kinds of thikr in remembrance of Allah.
“These programmes are not just about hosting gatherings each year, but also that of coming together every day and inspiring one another towards doing good and serving Allah swt and the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh),” said Wright. “We want to also invite the younger ones to come and sit in on the lectures by Sheik Abdalqadir as there are many of them who are faced with questions on how things appear to be today and do not know how to face it. It is like hearing things on the news but we can’t do anything about it,” she added.
“The Moussem is about light and what happens in your heart. From the moment one has made the intention to come – that is when it has started for you," said Wright. “Sometimes a matter like this can be described in many ways, like a diamond might reflect different lights from its many facets, each one true and each pointing to the same truth.”
Wright said women will also be treated to a ladies gathering on Tuesday 9th October to share in each other’s experiences, which will be followed by a ceilidh the next evening. A ceilidh is a Scottish Highland dance which beautiful and elevating. "It is a lovely chance for our women to relax, let our hair down and have our knees up. It will only be women and the venue is great,” she said.
She added that a conference will take place the following weekend, but details are still to be confirmed. “Everyone is welcome and facilities will be available for both men and women. Meals will also be served after each event inshallah,’” said Wright. “Alhamdulillah, the masjid also provides lunch after jumuah every week and everyone is always welcome to sit in."
Wright said non-Muslims who are interested will have an opportunity to find out more about Islam. “We are always willing to invite non-Muslims to join us these events. Many of them have come back to us in the past asking more and more questions on Islam," she said. “Alhamdulillah, many of them have taken the path to Islam and are doing exceptionally well – picking up on the beauty and lifestyle of Allah SWT’s servants."
If you would like to know more on the Moussem of Sheik Dr Abdalqadir, you can contact Abdarrazaq Redpath on 084 763 6788 or email him at info@jumuamosquect.com . You can also contact coordinator for the Moussem, Muhajir Haron on 0711 497 200 or email him at moussemqadriyya2012@gmail.com . VOC (Aishah Cassiem)

Girl falls from Lions Head

The parents of young Muslim woman are asking the community to keep their daughter (23) in prayer after she slipped five metres down Lions Head mountain on Saturday. Zaakiyah Parker, a nutrition and science student at UNISA, was enjoying her weekly hiking activities with her three cousins when the incident occurred. According to Kerry Davids, the spokesperson for the Western Cape Emergency Services, the young girl was air-lifted to Christian Barnard Hospital, minutes after falling.
“We received a call from the Mountain Rescue Services on Saturday morning, regarding the young lady. I believe that she sustained pelvic injuries and will be kept at the city hospital for the rest of the week,” said Davids. “However, rescue members said the young female was doing quite fine, after checking up on her later that day.”
The teary-eyed mother of the young girl said she was horrified when she received the news of her daughter. “This has come as a huge shock to me and my family, but alhamdulillah, I thank the Almighty for it could have been worse than what it is already,” she said. Whilst her health is progressing and she is talking, doctors want to keep her for a few more days until they are fully satisfied with her condition.
“With Allah’s mercy I am happy to say that she is one lucky girl. It is a miracle that she survived the fall, as in many cases children die from these kinds of accidents,” said the relieved mother. “I am still very emotional about the whole incident and worried about medical expenses as well. Doctors said that they don’t want speak about medical aid or any expenses until she is fully recovered. I ask that the community make du’ah for my beautiful daughter and that she recover soon, inshallah ameen.” VOC (Aishah Cassiem)