Over 80 Muslimahs aged between 9-15 were in attendance at the event, which featured the exceptionally knowledgeable and dynamic speaker Muallimah Shakirah Hunter of Umm Abbad Academy.
The programme opened with a short Qirat and translation on screen, followed by an exciting rapid fire quiz by Muallimah Hunter which built tremendous confidence and rapport with the otherwise quiet and apprehensive youth.
This was followed by the main theme of the event: Salaah. Muallimah Hunter explained the importance of finding happiness and relaxation in the action, offering ways to do that by providing each attendee with a workbook to help them write down their struggles, goals, and reasons for this important prayer. Clear demonstrations and explanations were provided, fostering inclusivity and participation with attendees who were eager to learn and interact with Muallimah Hunter as well as the DOU team.
A unique and optional challenge also took place during the event, in which some attendees were tasked with setting up their ideal ‘Salaah corner’. The activity encouraged the youth to create an aesthetic and beautiful place for them to feel relaxed and at peace when they pray, further motivating them to participate in their daily prayers.
After the riveting talk, attendees proceeded outside where a painting activity was hosted. Each one was provided with a wooden Arabic cut-out they could be creative with by adding paint to, and of which they could take home to add to their own ideal Salaah corners.
Refreshments followed after, providing the youth a time to interact with each other, Muallimah Hunter, as well as the friendly DOU team.
“The programme was good,” remarked an attendee. “It was our first time attending. We really enjoyed the painting.”
“It was good. The speaker was so energetic, I never got bored,” said another. “It was interesting, fun, and informative in that it held my attention. I never felt sleepy.”
The Darul Ihsan Youth Initiative events are free to attend and can be accessed by prior arrangement via the Darul Ihsan Centre.
Contact the Darul Ihsan offices on 031 577 7868 for further information.
Darul Ihsan Media Desk