November, 23rd 2019, the Mozambican Volunteers gathered for the remarkable celebration of 100 years of the Ismaili Volunteers Corps. Over the past 100 years, volunteers across the world have served the Imam of the Time, Jamat and Institutions, with hard work, dedication and  love.

Mozambique is no exception. On that evening, in each province across the country, the leadership and members of each local Jamat joined in the celebrations. 

In Maputo, the principal Jamatkhana, the Ismaili Band led a procession of the Volunteers throughout the gardens and public spaces of the iconic Maputo Jamatkhana – Edifício Sua Alteza Aga Khan, as the Jamat honoured this important milestone.

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Mozambique Ismaili Band
Mozambique Ismaili Band
Photo: Alef Aiden

 

On this fateful summer night, a beautiful rain filled deluge threatened to washout the celebrations, in vain, as joyous music and rhythmic garba erupted from every outdoor space.

This unique tradition of service is an essential characteristic of the Global &Mozambican Ismaili Community reflecting the spirit of selflessness, heartfelt fraternity, generosity and service to the other, upholding the ethos of discipline and dedication in service.

While many volunteers expect to serve in their areas of expertise, they are always ready to selflessly dedicate themselves where it is most needed. Thus, volunteers are provided with learning opportunities and taught the significance of serving for a greater cause.

Mawlana Hazar Imam said in a speech:

“…we must never lose sight of nor undervalue the secret of our Aga Khan Development Network’s success, the element which underpins its professionalism… The heart and lifeblood of our network, the voluntary workers; the Boards, the Committees, the volunteers – young and old – who contribute their time and efforts.”

His Highness the Aga Khan Launching The Aga Khan Hospital Expansion Programme At Diamond Jubilee Hall on Tanzania, 25th November 1982.

 

The tradition of voluntary service that must be preserved by the current and future generations of Ismailis must, without doubt, start you and me. It is the Imam’s deepest wish that this tradition continues without interruption and this notion must be etched into the hearts and minds of each one of us.

 

 

 

 

Congratulations to all the Ismaili Volunteers around the world who continuously dedicate their time, their knowledge, and their skills for the development of our community and society as a whole. Your humanity is an invaluable beacon for all to emulate.

The Global Jamat is proud of you!