Voice of British Muslim Women

International Women’s Day is a day of action on women’s rights, but it is also a day of awareness. It is by educating ourselves on the realities of the issues faced by women and girls throughout the world, that we can progress as a society. 

Alongside this year’s theme of “accelerate action”, International Women’s Day has three stated aims: “Celebrate women’s achievement. Raise awareness about discrimination. Take action to drive gender parity”. 

It is important to celebrate the achievements of women who have come before us and the women who are around us. So, we have asked members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association in the UK to tell us about the women that have inspired them. 

Faith in Uncertainty: A Matriarch in the Desert

“And will provide for him from where he expects not. And he who puts his trust in Allah—He is sufficient for him. Verily, Allah will accomplish His purpose. For everything has Allah appointed a measure.”

-The Holy Quran, ch. 65 v. 4

There are many women from whom I draw inspiration, so it is difficult to choose just one. But if there is a name that echoes in my heart when I think of unwavering faith, it is that of Hajra (may Allah be pleased with her), otherwise known as Hagar. I picture her standing in the vast emptiness of the desert, the sun pressing down like an unrelenting flame and the wind whispering through the barren land. There is no shelter, no water, no sign of life, just the endless expanse of sand and an innocent child cradled in her arms. 

Yet, when she realises she is being left behind, she asks only one thing: ‘Is this by the command of Allah?’ And when the answer is in the affirmative, she does not waver. There is no hesitation, no doubt, no fear. That moment, that resolute acceptance cloaked in enduring certainty, stays with me. It teaches me that true tawakkul [trust in Allah] is not just about believing in Allah the Almighty when the path is clear, but rather it’s about trusting Him completely even when it feels like stepping into oblivion. What strikes me even more deeply, and is beautifully woven into the narrative, is how Hajra (may Allah be pleased with her) doesn’t passively wait for help to descend. She runs between the hills of Safa and Marwah, teaching us that faith requires an active, purposeful striving.

Quite naturally, there are moments in life when we, too, feel stranded in a desert of uncertainty. When our prayers seem unanswered, when our struggles feel insurmountable, when we wonder if relief will ever come. But Hajra (may Allah be pleased with her) teaches us that no hardship is greater than the mercy of Allah. She did not know where her provision would come from, but she knew it would come. And that’s enough for a believer. Flowing to this day in the form of the well of Zamzam, is a reminder that when we place our trust in Allah the Almighty and put in the effort, He provides in ways beyond our comprehension as truly He is Ar-Razzaq (the Provider). 

I think of her when I am faced with difficulty, when the future feels uncertain or when I am overwhelmed by the weight of what is beyond my control. And I remind myself that if a woman, alone in the desert, could entrust everything to Allah the Almighty and emerge with His endless blessings, then why should I ever doubt His plan when my struggles are but fleeting in comparison?

May Allah the Almighty grant us the strength to embody Hajra’s patience, her perseverance and her steadfastness. May He make us among those who trust Him fully, who run towards Him with every step, knowing that He is always near. Ameen.

Rameen Masood, Leicester 

Lessons from the Past: A Saintly Woman

Years ago, I became aware that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) liked to tell moral stories from the Sufi book Tadhkirat-al Awliya, a collection of accounts or narrations of Muslim saints. So, I went in search of this book. One saint in particular made an impression on me, and I often remember her; Rabia Al-Adawiya, also known as Rabia Basri, and her devotion to Allah. Rabia enjoyed communion with Allah and put all her trust in Him. 

The story goes that she was abducted as a young girl and sold into slavery, but when her master saw her devotion to God, he became scared of God’s punishment and freed her. After that, she became a well-known devotee of Allah and people would often seek her company. Rabia would only ever ask Allah for help. 

Once, Rabia’s servant girl wanted to make onion stew as they had not cooked any food in some days. Finding that they needed some onions, she said, “I will ask of next door.” “Forty years now,” Rabia replied, “I have had a covenant with Almighty God not to ask for aught of any but He. Never mind the onions.” Immediately a bird swooped down from the air with peeled onions in its beak and dropped them into the pan. “I am not sure this is not a trick,” Rabia commented. And she left the onion pulp alone, and ate nothing but bread. Rabia led an ascetic life, depending only on Allah and was grateful for what she had, reminding me to live a simple life, to always say Alhamdulillah for everything and to ask only of Allah not of people.

Maria Anwar, Bradford

A Comforting Presence: My Grandmother’s Kindness 

Women embody strength, determination, resilience and humility. Honoured are we to be among such women and to be such women. Yet, women do not always hear how appreciated and inspirational they are, whilst being the backbones of family and society.

One woman that consistently inspires me is my grandmother, Mrs Umul – Khair (Suleman) Mohammed Bin Salih. For as long as I remember, wherever she is, is home, -our home. As a wife of a missionary, many sacrifices came with such a blessed position. She is a mother to all; her heart, her kitchen and kindness knows no bounds, her calming presence envelopes all and does not go unnoticed. 

Through her example, her daughters, granddaughters and great-granddaughters know what it is to be an exemplary wife and mother. In fact, anyone who has had the pleasure to be around her understands what it is to be an exemplary companion and what it means to put Allah at the forefront of every aspect of life. She exercises these roles with such ease and devotion. She wears a smile, and her expressions exude such warmth and care. What a blessing she is to us all and the wider community and May Allah continue to bless her tenfold.  

On International Women’s Day, let us take a moment to honour the women who shape our lives with love, wisdom, and strength reminding them just how deeply they are appreciated.

Bareera Ghaffar, Nottingham

A Lifetime of Love: My Mother’s Devotion

My mother has been a source of inspiration throughout my life. Her patience, gentleness, and forgiving nature have served to shape my character and values. One particular memory from my childhood stands out; when I was ten years of age I walked hand in hand with Ammi jan to school. Ever inquisitive, I turned to her and asked, “Mama, if you woke up with the voice of your favourite singer, what would you do?” Although briefly surprised, she responded in her usual gentle tone, “I would give it back, beta. It’s not my voice, and I would want them to have their beautiful voice back.” Her selfless answer left me awestruck. Looking back on that moment I realise how fortunate I am to have such an honest and fair mother, who continues to serve as an exemplary role model in my life and in the lives of all those around her.

As well as being honest and kind-hearted, my mother is hardworking and does everything in her power to excel in making my siblings and I happy. Whether helping me through tough times or making regular days an array of extraordinary memories, my mother has taught me what it means to be loving, selfless, grateful and strong. Her dedication and compassion inspire me every day.

Sabeeka Ahmad, Edinburgh