Community News
In the bustling city of Dubai, host city of this year's UN Climate Conference (COP28), a confluence of minds and ideas gathered to pave the way toward a more sustainable future. Among the diverse group of delegates, advocates, and stakeholders, members of the Jamat were active participants in helping to make progress in the field of climate action.
Some leaders transcend time, leaving a legacy that inspires future generations to leave the world a better place than when they inhabited it. Imam Sultan Mahomed Shah, Aga Khan III, was one such a visionary, whose contributions to politics, education and social reform left an indelible mark on the 20th century. As an influential statesman, his work shaped the course of history for Muslims in the subcontinent and beyond. His contributions are nothing short of remarkable - so much so that words often fall short in capturing their true depth. Born on 2 November, 1877, he was the 48th spiritual leader of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims and a pioneer in many spheres of life.
Striking a harmonious balance between one’s spiritual and worldly pursuits has always been an aspiration for Ismailis worldwide. Mawlana Hazar Imam has consistently emphasised the importance of maintaining this equilibrium. Meet Ali Baig, hailing from Yasin Tehsil Ghizer District, who is the Honourable Chief Justice of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). Chief Justice Baig serves as a shining example of this fundamental principle. Throughout his illustrious professional journey, he has actively contributed to various Jamati institutions in diverse roles, embodying the essence of this balance.
Nahida Bibi, a 27-year-old from Sultanabad, Yasin, embodies the success of a businesswoman; one who starts with small investments and big hopes to establish themselves as a successful entrepreneur.
Hailing from Hundur, a remote valley of Yasin in Gilgit-Baltistan, Noor ul Ain is a student at the Ismailia Youth Service (IYS) in Karachi. She is an alumnus of the Bridge Programme and now mentor students at the Gahkuch Bridge Camp 2023. From the humble beginnings as a student of the Bridge Programme to becoming an advisor, her journey is an inspiration and shows the positive impact of the Aga Khan Education Board’s initiative of improving quality of life through education.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended the 26th Annual Ismaili Muslim Stampede Breakfast in Calgary yesterday alongside senior representatives of the federal, provincial and municipal governments, as well as civil society, business and other community leaders.
I’ll never forget the feeling of the sand beneath my feet as I walked along the beach, watching the tide come in. I’ll never forget the sound of 120 people wincing audibly as I dislocated my elbow at a middle school wrestling meet. Most of all, I’ll never forget the way the entire world and all its problems melted away as I sped down a hill on my longboard.
The summer of 2023 in India is turning out to be the one of the hottest, with temperatures soaring over 45 degrees Celsius. The threat of such heat waves and the broader risks of climate change are making green buildings a growing area of interest for the real estate sector.
World Blood Donor Day is an occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need for safe blood and blood products. These inspiring tales of service and survival highlight the profound impact that a simple act of donating blood can have on individuals facing life-threatening conditions. From Salim Amlani's journey with thalassemia, where the support of dedicated donors ensured his survival, to Munira Premji's courageous battle against multiple cancers, made possible by timely blood transfusions, and Ronil Shivji's commitment to donating plasma, these stories serve as a testament to the power of compassion and the vital importance of blood donation.
The Ismaili is pleased to announce the launch of Muslim Footprints, a biweekly podcast series that brings listeners scholarly knowledge about the rich diversity of Islam. The first episode is available now. subscribe to Muslim Footprints on your favourite podcast platform including Spotify, iTunes, and Google.
Noorima Rehan is a 17-year-old aspiring Ismaili vocalist from Ghulkin, Gojal, Hunza. Located approximately 142km from Gilgit, Ghulkin is situated on the west of Hunza in the Karakorum, surrounded by glaciers and streams. Noorima's love for music runs deep within her being, and she finds herself singing in every moment of her life. Her vocal skills have propelled her to new heights. Most notably, she recently represented Pakistan during King Charles III's Coronation Concert in London.
In a world grappling with the impacts of ecological crisis, a ray of hope shines through the tireless efforts of individuals dedicated to preserving our planet. Among them is Rozina Kanchwala, whose passionate advocacy is rapidly capturing attention.