It gives me great pleasure to be able to write a few words to introduce ‘Connect’. This national initiative aims to ‘tell our own story’; a platform where grass roots Muslim Youth Work is seen, celebrated, shared and even explored, by US. 

As you read these pages I hope that you will be inspired, moved, feel a sense of proportion of the excellent work that the Muslim community is doing, and has been doing for many years contrary to common perception, and I hope this becomes a catalyst for change within our neighbourhoods. 

Young Muslims can contribute to the vibrancy of any community and so we have to invest in their future; unlocking their potential is the challenge that lay ahead of us and this can only begin if we see them as an asset and not as a liability. Man, with his faith, his honour, his ability, his values…is the greatest wealth that nations have, and the youth are the most important component of this human wealth. For this reason it is said: If you would like to know the future of a nation, then know what is the situation of the youth from that nation. It may seem at times that we are facing an uphill struggle and how could it be possible to change the current situation we find ourselves in to a better one. But we have to be optimistic and know that success comes from Allah and we just have to do what is within our capacity.

We have to do the good wherever we can and continue to do it even if it seems that we may not achieve anything; our efforts will bear fruits by the will of Allah. The Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him, said to the nearest meaning: “If the last hour strikes and it finds you carrying a nursling tree to the grove for planting, go ahead and plant it" (Musnad Ahmad Ibn Hanbal).

Tafazal Mohammad

Managing Director

Muslim Youth Skills

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