Voice of British Muslim Women

Ayela Noor (aged 15), Fleet

As soon as I enter, I am immediately greeted with smiles. Jalsa has a very positive, friendly environment that makes me feel welcome. I start the day walking around the site, and I see people of all different backgrounds, united by one thing. Islam. It’s beautiful and so inspirational to see how many people are here for one thing. The dedication they showed in travelling so far to see our beloved Huzur is incredible.

Next, I listened to all the speeches and nazms. We hear so many young people, and all their thoughts and opinions are expressed in such strong words; it’s incredible to hear it firsthand. It is especially empowering listening to the nazms, the women’s voices are so strong and powerful that you can’t help but fall in love with the beauty of Jalsa and Islam. Next is Huzoor’s speech, he talks about problems of the world, addressing how we should respond peacefully and practice our Islamic ways. This raises awareness and educates you more on the problem, as well as how to support yourselves and those in need. Then we all recite namaz together, it was a blessing thatHuzoor graced our Jalsa Gah  with so many other Ahmadi Muslims.  

I then went to the lunch marquee, which is being solely served by volunteers from the our community. The food is prepared and served by them, and they tirelessly work to serve thousands of us; the unity and general togetherness of this teamwork and dedication is heartwarming. None of this would be possible without the hundreds of volunteers.

Afterwards, people from different cultures who attend Jalsa share their experiences; it’s enlightening to listen to everyone’s personal accounts and amazing to see so many diverse cultures and all the different ways they enjoy and participate in Jalsa.

Jalsa is an amazing experience, especially as a young woman. I am surrounded by so many others like me. Jalsa makes me feel so at home; I love how united we are as a community. It genuinely has such a good environment; I look forward to a new day of fun and learning. I am so lucky to be able to attend and participate in this event.