Community News
In an effort to achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls through access to and participation in science, the United Nations recognises 11 February as International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Young girls from the Dubai Jamat have displayed that women and girls can thrive in the field of science by winning an award for their innovative solution at the FIRST Lego League (FLL) competition.
The Syrian Jamat commemorated Imamat Day in 2019 by reminiscing about Jubilee Arts during an event where artists came together to perform traditional songs and dances, demonstrating dedication, passion, and excellence in their performances.
Cancer is a global challenge: millions of people around the world are diagnosed with the condition every year. World Cancer Day is celebrated on 4 February, and unites people, communities, and countries to raise awareness, show support, and take action. Through prevention and early detection, the global community can reduce preventable suffering from cancer and non-communicable diseases.
The nature of life for the elderly has changed considerably in recent history. With advancements in science and healthcare, human lifespan has substantially increased and the majority of people in the world can expect to live past the age of 60. Jamati institutions in Pakistan have embarked on numerous initiatives to support the elderly and create opportunities for interaction between different generations.
It’s a cool and damp morning at a school in South Kanarchor, on the outskirts of Dhaka. As the children break for recess, they’re greeted by the sight of six young visitors, approaching the school by boat. The children clamour around the bamboo railings excitedly. Nestled in the heart of South Kanarchor is the Arcadia Education Project, one of the winners of the 2019 cycle of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (AKAA). Built on land that floods regularly, the amphibious structure is an innovative solution that responds to climate, context, and community. And that’s exactly what the visitors were there to learn about.
The Ismaili Centre, Dubai held its first two-day Hackathon recently, which introduced 35 young individuals to real-world technological problems and challenged them to identify sustainable global solutions.
Advances in science, technology, and improved health care and nutrition are all contributing to increased longevity of life, along with advanced diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. A number of Ismailis in the USA are leading the way in these fields of endeavour.
Last month, young members of the Jamat in Pakistan had the opportunity to tour interior Sindh and Karachi on a journey to reflect on and understand the importance of cultural heritage. The trip was organised as part of the Heritage Discovery Tour (HDT), a flagship programme of the Arts and Culture portfolio of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Pakistan.
In 2019, Jamats around the world have been celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Ismaili Volunteer Corps (IVC). Throughout its history, the IVC has aimed to serve the needs of the Jamat. Within the ethic of improving the quality of life of all humanity, the IVC also serves the broader communities of which the Jamat is a part. This service to society is seen as a civic responsibility and has always been an important part of IVC’s work.
For much of the history of the Ismaili Volunteers Corps, young volunteers, scouts, and guides have played an important role in supporting the needs of the Jamat in various parts of the world.
Ever since Ismailis began to settle in Portugal in the 1970s, members of the Jamat have contributed their time and talents on a voluntary basis towards the development of the community and wider society. Here, we share the stories and experiences of Portuguese volunteers across generations, united by a lifetime of service.
In celebration of the Ismaili Volunteer Corps (IVC) 100th anniversary celebration this year, the USA Jamat reflects on the significance and history of the organization. Thousands of volunteers across the country have served as part of the USA IVC. Here, we highlight a number of individuals - with different paths to their journeys, these volunteers tell a tale of happiness and humility.