Future leaders reflect on the month of sacrifice

‘We are not just remembering the sacrifices of those who came before us, but we are also committing ourselves to building a future where justice, equality, and compassion are at the forefront’

by NONTOBEKO AISHA MKHWANAZI

‘Somelele, Ngalamandla kaThixo, Somelele (We will preserve, with the grace and gratitude of Allah, we will preserve).’ These where the powerful lyrics of a song sang by the youth gathered at Driftsands Mosque, Mfuleni.

History seemed to repeat itself. Like the youth of 1976, who also drew strength and courage from the meaningful lyrics of the songs they sang in times of hardship.

This was also the case as hundreds of Muslim youth from different African townships across Cape Town gathered for the second segment of the Fifth Annual Umhlangano Youth Conference.

The conference, hosted by the Western Cape (WC) Shura Council Youth Wing on June 29, 2024, aimed to empower and inspire the next generation of leaders. They also expressed their appreciation for those who made sacrifices in the past and present, in order to make the world a better place.

Established in 2000, the WC Shura Council (WCSC) is a non-profit organisation (NPO) that focuses on all aspects of development in Western Cape African townships.

According to WCSC Youth wing Administrator, Khalid Giveus-Badi, the event provided a platform for youth to engage in discussions pertaining to lessons which can be learnt from the youth of 1976, Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice and Prophet Ismail (AS) as an exemplary youth.

‘As we conclude the month in which we termed as #month of sacrifice due to both the commemoration of the 37th anniversary of the 16 June Soweto uprising and the 2024 Eid Al-Adha coinciding with June this year, it is important for us as the youth to come together and reflect how the lessons from these historic events can be incorporated into our role in society, as we continue to contribute towards continuing the legacy of sacrifice and resilience,’ said Giveus-Badi.

During his opening remarks Giveus-Badi underscored the significance of the conference.

‘Today, we are not just remembering the sacrifices of those who came before us, but we are also committing ourselves to building a future where justice, equality, and compassion are at the forefront,’ expressed Giveus-Badi.

He further highlighted the importance of sacrifice.

‘We cannot be the youth that sits and does nothing to bring about change in our country. We ought to be like prophet Ismail (AS) who epitomised trust in Allah and also be like the youth of 1976, who stood united against an oppressive system as we navigate the many issues faced by the youth in our country,’ said Giveus-Badi.

Moulana Junaid Somana, Head of WCSC Youth Wing, emphasised unity among youth as central to creating a brighter future.

‘Regardless of your background or education, we all have to come together. Everyone has a key role to play in achieving societal change. Through the grace of Allah, commitment, unity, sacrifice and collective efforts we as the youth can make positive change in our society,’ said Moulana Somana.

During the event WCSC Head, Shaikh Ismail Gqamane, highlighted the importance of obedience and sacrifice inspired by Prophet Ibrahim’s journey.

‘Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) commitment to Allah’s commandments, even in adversity, exemplifies dedication and resilience. Embracing these values can empower us to impact society positively,’ remarked Shaykh Gqamane.

Salimah Abdullah, a youth activist and student at Al Huda Islamic Centre, shared her insights during the conference, stating that as the youth embrace the new Islamic year with the inspirations from the youth of 1976 and the willingness to sacrifice of Ibrahim (AS) they should not forget to continue to fight for the freedom of the people of Palestine.

‘As long as we speak about the brutal killings, torture and suffering of the youth anywhere in the world, we don’t speak about it in the past, it means we have a lot to do as the youth. We have a lot of injustices to fight against in our respective corners, and our actions must reflect our commitment to justice, solidarity, and lasting change,’ said Abdullah.

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With the national theme of this years, June 16, being ‘Working together for youth development and a drug free South Africa,’ Driftsands Masjid Imam, Shaikh Yaseen Kotana, pleaded with youth to stop drug abuse and alcohol abuse.

‘I urge the youth in our townships to take a stand against drug and alcohol abuse. It is crucial that we work together to support our youth, providing them with the opportunities and guidance they need to thrive. Let us join hands in creating a safe and healthy environment where our youth can grow and succeed,’ said Shaikh Kotana.

The first segment of the Fifth Annual Umhlangano Youth Conference was held virtually on April 27, 2024 and it addressed a variety of issues such as the importance of hijab, the critical role of Islamic education especially in townships, youth and dawah, and the core components of a progressive youth.

The event featured renowned youth speakers such as Radio 786 presenter, Ramla Ruwa Malgas, madrassah teacher and township Islamic education reformist, Moulana Bilal Mkhizwana, and Shaikh Hassan Mkwinda.

Both the events carried a sense of hope for a better tomorrow with the youth continuing to preserve with the grace and strength from Allah.