Keeping you in contact with your community
22nd EDITION
Apartheid in SA –
Heaven compared
to Palestine today
FIRDOWS BADROODIEN
President Kgalema Motlanthe deliv-
ered the key note address at the open-
ing of the Fourth International
Humanitarian Conference on
Saturday, 7 February 2009 at the
Parow Civic Centre. The conference
organised by the Muslim Judicial
Council was in aid of strengthening
the efforts to "stop the humanitarian
crisis in Gaza".
Representatives from 16 countries
were present at the conference, name-
ly Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt,
France, Holland, Morocco, Malaysia,
Libya, Saudi Arabia, Belgium,
Lebanon, Palestine, Greece, Sudan,
Turkey and S.A. President Motlanthe
said that he decided against writing a
formal speech because he believed
that he was able to speak from the
heart on the plight of the Palestinian
people. He stated that a "deep sense
of shared pain" existed between
South Africans and Palestinians
because the Palestinians are living in
their very own apartheid state.
Apartheid, an Afrikaans word mean-
ing separateness was a system of
legal racial segregation enforced by
the National Party Government of
apartheid South Africa. This was a
chapter in South Africa's history
where black South Africans were
stripped of their citizenship and
legally became citizens of self-gov-
erning Bantustans (tribal homelands).
These Bantustans occupied small and
economically infertile areas of the
country. So too has Palestinians been
Kgalema Motlanthe sets The world`s first divorce
date for S.A Elections by Facebook
President Kgalema Motlanthe
announced that the general elec-
tions will take place on 22 April
2009. Speaking at the National
Assembly, Motlanthe said: "I also
take this opportunity to announce
the date for the fourth national
elections for our country: 22 April
2009. I must, however, emphasise
that the actual proclamation of this
date will be made later." The
proclamation of the date simply
The Community News (CNEWS) has transformed into a Women, girls and youth engendered read. The CNEWS has dedicated pages written by young Muslims for young
Muslims. The 'junior reporters' have been selected through the Youth Engineering the Future 'Hubb 4 Life' Business Plan Competition held during 2008. Each junior reporter
will be attending a Media and Communications course capacitating them with skills in the print, radio, television and digital media. Watch them grow! The Youth Media
branches are Al-AAzhar High/Colorada Park masjid; Alshams/Park Road masjid; AlShabaab/Kalksteenfontein masjid; Darul Islam High; Darun Naim, Helping Hands,
Connecting Hearts/Masjidus Sunni; Husami GoGetters/Husami Masjid, STEPS/Iqra High school and Owwal masjid.
MARCH 2009
forced off their lands by illegal
Israeli settlers. The apartheid govern-
ment segregated education, medical
care and other public services and
provided black people with services
greatly inferior to those of whites.
Israel's "security fence" or Apartheid
Wall carves Palestinian lands into
inaccessible areas, leaving
Palestinians who live on the wrong
side of the wall isolated from water
and crucial resources. Additionally,
this wall isolates the Palestinian pop-
ulation from each other and their way
of life. The Group Areas Act Of 1950
designed to separate racial groups
geographically, became the heart of
the apartheid system. This Act which
was passed on 27 April 1950 parti-
tioned the country into different
quarters - areas allocated to different
racial groups. This law was the foun-
dation on which political and social
separation was built.
President Motlanthe spoke of his
visit to Palestine in May 2008, he
said that "Israel continued to change
the physical facts of Palestine and
that they are constantly constructing
new settlements and building roads
for the exclusive use of Israeli citi-
zens. He said, "Palestinians who
usually took two minutes to walk
across the road from their homes to
their places of work, now have to use
a different route, stopping at dozens
of Israeli checkpoints." President
Motlanthe significantly went on to
say "Not even in the darkest days of
apartheid did we ever experience
anything like that". He believes unity
means that the date has been pub-
lished in the Government Gazette.
This publication officially
declares the election underway.
On that date, the voting rolls will
finally be closed, but until then,
voting rolls are still open for late-
comers who are yet to register.
They can do so at their local coun-
cil offices.
– Source: News agencies
What's New:
PLEASE SUPPORT OUR YOUTH MEDIA INITIATIVE!!! EMAIL:info@islamicmedia.co.za
RABI-U
UL-A
AWWAL 1430
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
is the most potent
weapon that the
Palestinian people
can have and that
South Africa is
uniquely placed to
assist them to realise
everlasting peace
and self determina-
tion. He urged South
Africans to engage
with the people of
Palestine and help
them attain unity
and emerge as a
united force.
The system of
Apartheid ignited
the flame of internal
resistance by politi-
cal organisations HANDSHAKE: President of the MJC, Moulana Igsaan
such as the ANC, Hendricks welcoming President Kgalema Motlanthe at the
the Black opening of the 4th International Humanitarian conference on
C o n s c i o u s n e s s 7 February 2009 at Parow Civic Centre
Movement, the PAC such as the Palestinian Liberation
and the UDF. In turn, the South Organisation (PLO) and international
African government responded with anti- apartheid movements.
police brutality, resorted to deten- This however, seems impossible due
tions without trial, torture and cen- to the fact that the United States, the
sorship. But despite suffering European Union, Israel, Canada and
extreme cruelty, and having to endure Japan have labelled Hamas as a
exile, these organisations retained Terrorist organisation, in fear of what
support for the anti-apartheid strug- Ehud Olmert, Prime Minister of
gle in South Africa and continued to Israel stated in November 2007: "If
rally support from international anti- the day comes when the two-state
apartheid movements. President solution collapses, and we face a
Motlanthe stated that similarly, South African-style struggle for
Hamas, an organisation of social equal rights (also for the Palestinians
workers and a democratically elected in the territories), then, as soon as
government of Palestine, should join that happens, the State of Israel is
forces with other Palestinian groups finished."
Emma Brady, a 35-year- Emma Brady." Only he had ended his mar-
old conference organiser, after receiving a call riage, but the comment
claims that she learnt of from a sympathetic from the girl in Canada
her divorce when her friend in Denmark, did who said: "You are better
husband Neil Brady, a Mrs. Brady realize what off out of it."
39-year-old IT consult- had happened. "I only
ant, changed his status joined Facebook because Neil Brady now lives
on Facebook, a social the girls at work said it with his mother.
networking website, to was good fun, what upset – Source: News agencies
read "Neil Brady has me the most was not the
ended his marriage to fact that Neil had written
2 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430

NEWS BITES roleplayers in the taxi industry

No-school as taxi strikes
The taxi strike has had a direct
impact on learners who were
subsequently prevented from
attending schools. The Western
Cape Education Department said
a three-day, 11-13 February,
strike by taxi operators has a
ISLAMIC MEDIA AGENCY CC major impact on teaching in the
province.Several schools across
Editorial the Cape Peninsula reported a
high absenteeism rate among
learners and teachers on
Editor Wednesday and
Sanaa Petersen Thursday.Schools were forced to
sanaa@islamicmedia.co.za dismiss students early.
Livingstone High School in
Deputy Editor Claremont also requested par-
Firdows Badroodien ents to decide for themselves
info@islamicmedia.co.za whether or not to send their chil-
dren to school, stating "the safe-
Youth Media Editorial ty of our staff and students is of
Al Shabaab Team - Almarkaz paramount importance". The
City of Cape Town will be
Al Islami
engaging with the taxi industry
Doublom Street, at an industry wide level through
Kalksteenfontein
a series of monthly meetings.
Ayesha Nakidien The City is committed to the
Ighsaan Solomons successful implementation of the
Integrated Rapid Transport (IRT)
Al Shams -Darul Karaar System and engagement with the
Park Road Wynberg taxi industry is an important part
Umaymah Davids of the IRT. Executive Mayor
Shuaib VD Schyff Helen Zille announced that the
first of these meetings will be
Al-Azhar/Colorado Park held on 8 March. Mayor Zille
Masjid - Mitchell`s Plain said: "It is important that all
Cnr Rosewood &
have an opportunity to engage
with the City about issues of
concern to them and that the
City can raise issues with the
taxi industry. These monthly
meetings will give us an oppor-
tunity for broad dialogue
between the city and the indus-
try".
Democracy in Somalia
Somalia`s parliament elected
Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as
the country`s new president.
Ahmed was sworn in on 31st
January 2009 in Djibouti and
was handed the daunting task of
stabilizing a country plagued by
violence and anarchy for nearly
20 years. Sheikh Sharif Sheikh
Ahmed was elected after the
previous president - a former
soldier, rebel and warlord
Abdullah Yusuf resigned in
December after failing to restore
peace to the war-torn country.
Sheikh Ahmed a former geogra-
phy teacher and chairperson of
the Islamic Courts Union was
elected to head a small local
sub-clan in Jowhar. Ahmed was
chairperson of the Islamic
Courts Union that controlled
Mogadishu for six months in
2006 before Ethiopian soldiers
drove them from power. The
impoverished and drought rid-
den Horn of Africa nation with a
population of 8 million people
has had no functioning govern-
ment, since clan-based militia
overthrew General Mohammed
Siad Barre in 1991. Sheikh
Sharif Sheikh Ahmed stated,
"Very soon, I will form a gov-
ernment which represents the
people of Somalia. We will live
peacefully with east African
countries and we want to coop-
erate with them.
Elections in Israel
National elections to the
Knesset, Israel's parliament, are
held once every four years,
unless circumstances call for
early elections. This year's elec-
tions saw two rival Israeli par-
ties claim victory. The Kadima
Party, led by Tzipi Livni, the
current Foreign Minister as well
as Benyamin Netanyahu, leader
of the Likud Party and former
Prime Minister of Israel, have
both declared themselves victo-
rious. Livni declared victory in
the early hours of Wednesday,
February 11, saying: "Today the
people chose Kadima…We will
form the next government led by
Kadima." Netanyahu addressed
his party shortly before Livni
spoke to hers and said: "With
God's help I will lead the next
government. Tzipi Livni won
28 parliamentary seats beating
Netanyahu by one seat.
According to Israel's Ministry of
Foreign Affairs, "a government
requires the Knesset's confi-
dence to function, it must have a
supporting coalition of at least
61 of the 120 Knesset members.
To date, no party has received
enough Knesset seats to be able
to form a government by itself;
thus all Israeli governments have
been based on coalitions of sev-
eral parties, with those remain-
ing outside the government mak-
ing up the opposition".
3.5tons of disposable nap-
pies clog landfills each year
According to The Green Guide
95% of US families use dispos-
able diapers to the extent of as
many as 8000 per child. The
result is that 3.5 tons of them
clog landfills each year. There is
also the matter of untreated
urine and faecal matter that can
easily contaminate surrounding
ground water. Pathogens in the
waste can be spread by animals
and insects. Bleaching the dia-
pers gives rise to the chemical
dioxin which is potentially
harmful to the factory workers
and if trace amounts show up in
the diapers the babies skin
becomes exposed to dangerous
carcinogen. With all this as well
as the fact that most brands of
disposables are made from
petroleum-derived plastic and
wood fibre requiring 250 000
trees to supply America's
requirements.

Interest in Islamic law grows

Weltervreden, Colorado Park
Shakierah De Vries
Abdurosheed Emandien

MUSCLE/Darun Naim Boys SANA EBRAHIM
Castletown Road, Wynberg
Abdul Kadir Davids From a modest intake of just
Altaaf Harnekar 14 students in 2004, to a stag-
gering 85 in 2008; the
Helping Hands, Connecting University of KwaZulu-Natal
Hearts (UKZN) Certificate in
Islamic Law course has
Masjidus Sunni , 11 Ayshire proved its weight in gold. The
Road, Kromboom course has had wide appeal
Ghafeetha Abdul Razak, across cultural, religious and
Miekaeel Adams, racial lines. It gives non-
Yaseen Ebrahim Muslim students a better
understanding of Islamic Law
in particular; and Islam in
S.T.E.P.S/Iqra
general. For Muslim students,
Academy/Owwal masjid a definite draw card has been
Jasmyn Street, Belhar the comparison of Islamic
Fathima Naidoo Law to South African law in
Nurah Simon issues that affect them in their
daily lives, like marriage,
Publishers: divorce, succession, Islamic
ISLAMIC MEDIA AGENCY CC
banking, and medical science.
The course boasts a diverse
Ck2002/001313/23 student profile. 'Ulama
Address :466 Lansdowne (Muslim theologians), aca-
Road, Lansdowne, 7780 demics, businessmen, lectur-
Tel: 021 6972294 ers, home executives and stu-
Fax: 021 6972304
dents have all found rele-
vance for it in their lives.
Email: This indicates that perhaps
info@islamicmedia.co.za people might want to study
www.islamicmedia.co.za Islamic Law not so much
Designer: from the point of view of
Nazleah Hartley
wanting to practise law, but to
get an insight into Islam.
Printers:
Paarl Coldset So exactly what is Shari'ah
(or Islamic Law) and how
Banking Details: does it differ from western
Islamic Media Agency cc
law? Course-coordinator Adv
FNB, Sandton City, Branch Code:
Muhammad Vahed explains:
254-605
"Western law is man-made
law; it's changing all the time,
Account Number: 62033040007 depending on circumstances.
Whereas Islamic Law is
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen certificate course, such
divine law and is
applicable to all as developing it into a
Muslims for all postgraduate diploma,
times, wherever and later on an LLM
they may be situ- (Masters in Islamic
ated." In the con- Family Law/ Criminal
text of the Justice/ Islamic
Certificate in Banking/ Medical
Islamic Law Jurisprudence).
course, students
are equipped with Mr Shabir Chohan,
knowledge on a CEO of Albaraka Bank
wide spectrum of (corporate sponsors of
Islamic legal the certificate course)
issues in order to highlighted that in the
create a better AWARDS: (l-r)Adeeb Abrahams-manager Albaraka, wake of the current
understanding of Prof Mohseen Ebrahim, Dr Muhammad Vahed, Judge global economic crisis,
the practicality of Bashier Waglay, Shabir Chohan- CEO-Albaraka, flaws in the way busi-
Sheikh A. Alexander, ness was done in the
Islam in a secular
state. Every mod- centres located in Ladysmith, past have surfaced.
ule commences with an Gauteng and Cape Town. The "Governments bailing out
overview of western law fol- immediate result was a signif- banks show them to be really
lowed by a detailed discus- icant increase in enrolment - just treating the symptom and
sion of Islamic law. 40 more students joined the not the cause. Islam has the
Contemporary issues such as course outside the Greater solution; based on risk-shar-
the Amina Lawal Zina (adul- Durban area. ing, interest-free investment.
tery) case, the 'Khatif girl' This is evident from Islamic
rape case in Saudi Arabia, the The 2009 Certificate in banking in several countries
cartoon cases involving the Islamic Law graduation took remaining largely unaffect-
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), place on 7 February with ed." The reason for this is that
including the local Jacob Sheikh Mohammed Colbie Islam prohibits any form of
Zuma cartoons in the context achieving the highest aggre- speculation, whereas western
of freedom of speech, the gate and Sheikh banking and finance trade in
Muslim Personal Law Bill, Abduragmaan Alexander, debt and paper, which have no
and the global financial tur- imam of Masjid Ighwa Tul intrinsic value.
moil are examined. Islam in second position and Students interested in
Mymoena Arnold in third enrolling for the 2009
UKZN is the only tertiary position. Certificate in Islamic Law
institution in South Africa course should contact
that offers this course, which Mrs Munirah Osman (lecturer
Mawlana Mulla on 079 796
has created a huge demand in the School of Law at 73070 or
for it nationally. But UKZN UKZN) stated: "In a time islamiclaw.ukzn@gmail.com.
is not a correspondence uni- when social injustices and Sana Ebrahim is a freelance
versity and therefore the challenges are facing many journalist. Read her 'Indians
course was offered in 2008 as countries, this course is espe- in Africa' blog at http://indi-
block lectures at three new cially relevant." Future plans african.blogspot.com.
were also unveiled for the
 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430 3

Sacrificing the self

SANAA PETERSEN
Eid ul Adha is a time for reflection
and clarifying our connection with
the Divine. That was the theme of
Sheikh Abd 'al Rasheed Brown's Eid
morning sermon at Masjidus Sunni.
Sheikh Brown said, 'The sacrifice of
the animal is merely an outward man-
ifestation of our sacrifice for Allah.
The flesh or blood does not reach
Allah, but our taqwa does.'
Retrospectively, what would define
our niyyah (intention) to consciously
purchase and kill an innocent animal?
Do we slaughter in the name of reli-
gion? Do we slaughter because we
want good luck? Do we slaughter to
chase the omens away? Do we
slaughter to purify our 'gray' monies?
Is our sacrifice ritualistic?
All these questions entered my mind
as I was listening to the Sheikh stand-
ing austerely on the mimbar (pulpit)
addressing the predominately male
crowd. 'Taqwa is a basis for our-
selves, of our society. If there is no
taqwa, there is nothing for the
Muslim, because all of the principles
upon which we build this ummah, can
only be internalized through taqwa.'
My mind drifting to a proclamation
of a Muslim woman a few days prior
'I felt like a piece of meat.' Sadly,
these exclamations don't make it to
the mimbar, the headlines and neither
does it tug at the Ulamas' heart - it's
only whispered between women. A
humiliating legacy passed between
sisters from generation to generation.
Many Muslim women irrespective of
their status suffer in silence. Some
were brave enough to cry at the feet
of the Ulama only to be chided. Some
were lucky to have registered their
marriage in a secular court, allowing
an opportunity for limited recourse.
Some consoled themselves to a
reward in the hereafter.
On the day of Wuqoof my friend
asked if I could meet with her friend
Rayghana, a forty-five year old beau-
tiful and stylish woman. She said
Rayghana needed help in coping with
her divorce. My mission is to teach
women to rewrite their legacy. I am a
project developer of the 'It's About
Me' women's creative writing project.
Since, it's launch in April, we facili-
tated sixty-seven women's life sto-
ries. A common thread in each story -
these women entrusted their spiritu-
ality to an understanding of the
teachings of Islam woven by a dys-
functional legacy.
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
PORTRAIT: Poised picture taken outside a
Rayghana grew up in a traditional
home in Bokaap. She was never
allowed to date and not encouraged
to pursue a tertiary education. 'My
mother taught us, that it was not nec-
essary to have an ambition, as our
husband would look after us,' said
Rayghana. Her first husband was her
classmate on high school. He was a
non-Muslim and reverted to Islam.
After eight years of marriage and two
sons, he decided to convert to
Christianity. 'I was left homeless and
penniless, ashamed to go back home,
feeling like a failure.' Only with a
high school certificate and two young
sons she moved from place to place
looking for work. After a few months
she found employment as a supervi-
sor in a Wellness centre. She and her
boys then moved in with her parents.
No-one at work knew she was
divorced, she pretended to be mar-
ried, not wanting to deal with the
rejection - not only as a wife but as a
Muslim.
The maintenance contractor, Nizar, at
the Wellness centre was a Muslim,
who alleged to be a widower, playing
on the sympathies of the women
staff. But When Rayghana was in her last
Rayghana always trimester, she received a knock on the
kept a cordial rela- door, she opened the door and infront
tionship until the of her stood Nizar's 'deceased' wife.
water pipes burst He was never widowed, he was a
in her home. Her married man with a four-year old son
parents telephon- and an eighteen month daughter.
ing frantically and After the birth of their child
Nizar overhearing Rayghana refused to see him, her eld-
the commotion erly father assumed responsibility,
promised to fix the but this infuriated Nizar and he per-
plumbing. He sisted in asserting his role as a father.
fixed the plumbing Rayghana went to an Imam seeking
and then made reg- help to end the miserable relationship
ular maintenance with Nizar. The imam's response to
checks, each time her trauma was, 'Why you coming to
wanting to meet cry by me, you made your bed, you
her husband. slept with him.' Disillusioned she
Rayghana lied say- internalized her pain and humiliation
ing her husband and consoled herself that one day
worked night- 'Allah will save her'. Burying herself
shifts. Then one in her work, defenseless against
day, Nizar, made a Nizar and the taunting of his wife she
house call during became a shadow of life. After her
the day, not find- parents' death she relented to Nizar
ing a husband, he and became his second wife.
interrogates the
domestic helper. An emotional trauma that lasted
She obviously was twenty-years abruptly ended on a
not alerted to the Friday an hour after pleasing her hus-
lie and replies, band, he hands her, what he termed a
'Mevrou, doesn't 'love' letter. Bewildered she returns
have a husband.' the letter to him unopened replying,
'You have never written me a letter
This revelation before, neither have you ever bought
propelled him to me flowers or a gift, take your letter
pick Rayghana up I don't want it.' The same evening
from work pre- Nizar's brother in-law, an Imam,
tending that the delivers her the same unsealed envel-
hotel in Uganda. pipes burst in her op. In it were three written talaqs.
home, again. Perplexed, she telephones the offici-
Driving around for ating Imam, who was a mutual friend,
awhile looking for plumbing parts, he he responded to her questions, 'I
stops at Strandfontein Pavilion to buy thought you knew' and Nizar's
an ice cream, as it was a hot summery response was, 'Ek het jou lief maar ek
day. Before she could blink he was on is ook lief vir die doenya(status).' His
top of her, kissing and touching her. first wife has since sued Rayghana
Too shocked to move, she waited for for a paternity test and
him to stop. He touched her all over R500 000 in damages.
but did not penetrate her as she was
menstruating. Afterwards, he carried In concluding the Eid morning ser-
on as if nothing happened telling her mon the Sheikh quotes from the Holy
how much he loved her. Too shocked Quran; ' And those who exalt the
to speak, she sat dutifully silent until sacred symbols of Allah, it is from
they reached her home. She then the taqwa in their hearts. It is from
avoided him, he persued her relent- the consciousness of Allah and the
lessly. Too ashamed and afraid to consciousness of the hearts of heav-
speak out, she pretended nothing hap- enly people; living and tarrying on
pened. She missed her monthly peri- the earth for a short time, only to
od, thinking it's absence was stress return to the heavens.' Sheikh Abd 'al
related. When she missed her second Rasheed explains, 'That is what sacri-
month's period, she went to the doc- fice is about. It's about making sacred
tor, to discover she was pregnant. the mundane. It's about aligning your
Distressed she confronted Nizar, he lives to the prayer…constantly re-
beamed, finally claiming his prize, orientating our hearts to the Qiblah
'Now you are mine,' he happily that Allah has given us; not our nafs,
exclaimed. hawa, shaytan and dunyah has given
us. And this is what we need to do.'
My mind drifting back to the sermon
'the more you have, the more you will Do you have a story to share?
worry about sacrificing…And this is Please email us -
when you get into trouble. You start info@islamicmedia.co.za
to manage things as if you own them.'

Saudi appoints first

woman Minister
The Saudi Gazette reports on
the 14 February the
Custodian of the Two Holy
Mosques King Abdullah bin
Abdullah issued a Royal
Decree appointing the first
woman to serve in a ministe-
rial position.
Royal decrees were issued
making, Nourah Al-Fayez,
the first woman to serve as
Deputy Minister of Education
for Women's Education
Portfolio. The additional
changes in the composition of
the Council of Ministers are
Prince Faisal bin Abdullah
bin Mohammed appointed as
Minister of Education; Dr
Abdullah Al-Rabeeah
Minister of Health; Dr.
Mohammed bin Abdulkareem
Al-Issa Minister of Justice
and Dr Abdulaziz Khojah
Minister of Culture and
Information. The new
appointments come into
effect February, 28.
 4 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430
Youth on The MOVE

Winner of the YEF ‘Hubb 4 Life’ A junior reporter’s

first experience
Business plan competition AYESHA NAKEDIEN

After being selected as part of the

The Al-Shabaab team, rep-
resenting AlMarkaz al
Islami masjid in
Kalksteenfontein was
awarded first place in the
YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'/'Love
for Life' Business Plan
competition convened by
the Youth Engineering the
Future (YEF) Project
Trust on 30 November
2008 at SANZAF H/O and
Centre for Educational
and Skills Development in
Salt River. Participants
had to develop a business
plan inorder to create a
Young participative space
within the masjid. They
also had to identify and
develop sustainable frame-
works to revitalise the
masjid as an integral,
functional and vibrant
fundamental in the devel-
opment Muslim Youth.
The Al-Shabaab team won
a Sahara laptop, 3-1 HP
Office and each team mem-
ber was awarded a Nokia
cellular phone. Awqaf SA
awarded the team with
R5000 and a project man-
agement course.
The YEF would like to
thank the Adjudicators of
the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'
Business Plans competition
namely, Rudewaan Arendse,
Amina Bhayat, Dr Anwa
Nagiah, Mickaeel Collier,
Sheikh Shahied Esau and
M. Amien Jacobs for their
selfless support.
About the Al-Shabaab
Our mission is to provide an
institute that will cater to
the holistic, educational,
spiritual, cultural and devel-
opmental needs of the com-
munity. We intend to edu-
cate the youth and motivate
teenagers. Our motivation
for having the Shabaab
Centre in the community is
mainly to attract more youth
to channel their energies
CELEBRATION: (Team leader) Fadwah Thorne,18 years, Hifz stu-
dent; Shariefah Donson,15years; Ighsaan Solomons,16years;
Ayesha Nakidien, 19years, Hifz student; Shameegah Jinoo,
17years; Zuraan Boltman , 16 years; Mushfieqah Lodewyk, 14
years
more productively. In addi-
tion, we also believe that
skills development classes
for adults are greatly need-
ed.
There is an alarming call for
youth groups to be estab-
lished in our community
and we believe that Shabaab
Centre is the solution. The
Shabaab Centre Team com-
prises of a dynamic group
of young people who are
dedicated in their cause of
social upliftment in the
community. Each member is
committed to doing as much
as they can in order to bring
about positive change to
their environment.
The Al-Shabaab Team
Mushfiqa Ludewyk,
15years
My goal for 2009 is to make
my parents proud by pass-
ing exceptionally well in
the academic field. I plan to
attend university when I
complete high school,
Insha-Allah.
PICTURE: Sanaa Petersen
The subjects I enjoy study-
ing are Afrikaans, English
and Life Skills.
Fadwa Thorne, 18 years
I am currently studying
hifdh at Abdullah bin
mas'ood hifth institute. On
completing my hifdh, I
would very much like to
pursue my dream of becom-
ing a nutritionist as I am
highly interested in the
medical field. I also enjoy
swimming, hanging out
with friends and networking
(MXIT).
Zuraan Boltman, 16years
In my spare time I like
going out with friends and
chilling with family. My
goal is to complete school
and thereafter study hifdh
Insha-Allah. My favourite
subjects at school include
Physical Science and
Electrical Technology.
Ayesha Nakidien, 20years
I am currently learning
hifdh at Darul Furqaan
Haafth Institute. I am a con-
fident individual that ques-
tions everything. I have a
strong personality, yet I
remain friendly and
approachable. I would like
to study Clinical
Psychology and my aim in
life is to be happy, comfort-
able and successful.
Shameega Jinoo, 17 years
This year I have been think-
ing of studying hifdh. It is
my dream to be-able to
memorise the entire Quran
and become a Fashion
Designer, Insha-Allah. I
enjoy spending my free
time shopping, hanging out
with friends and listening to
music.
Sharifa Donson
I am an extremely hard
working, dedicated and
"girly" 15 year old. I like
adventures and love learn-
ing new things. I mostly
love history and cars. It is
my dream to become a
Crime Scene Examiner.
Igshaan Solomons 17
years
I am involved in and com-
mitted to the RCL and the
MSA. I have taken three
major subjects at school
level namely, physical sci-
ence, biology and account-
ing and I believe these sub-
jects greatly affect my
future. I also take part in
sports and extra mural
activities. I enjoy playing
soccer, rugby and taking
part in cross-country run-
ning. I love keeping fit and
keeping updated on the lat-
est trends in technology.
Diarise our 2009 Event
Unity Carnival in May. It
will be the first cultural
and interfaith carnival in
Kalksteenfontein.
Email: info@islamicme-
dia.co.za
editorial team for the Youth
Engineering the Future (YEF)
organization, a few of us were pre-
sented with the opportunity to
attend the Muslim Judicial
Council`s banquet and conference
over the weekend of 7th February
2009. I then went from being an
average teen to being a junior
reporter. Ever since the banquet,
I`ve realized that journalism isn`t
what it seems to be. It`s about crit-
ical thinking, the ability to read
between the lines, prior research,
knowing who`s who in the world,
how to be specific when asking a
question and not to mention, the
ability to write. Other than
that…you get an all access pass,
you get to meet important people,
you stay updated and it gives you
insight into the way the world
works. It`s an interesting yet tire-
some job. My weekend as a junior
reporter was… AWESOME. I was
incredibly nervous, at times incred-
ibly blonde but I learnt a lot, the
experience was amazing and the
company was great. I`d like to
thank everybody from the Islamic
Media Agency for helping me to
grow, especially Sanaa Petersen,
Zakareeya Pandey and Firdows
Badroodien for making me feel
comfortable, being patient with me,
helping me out when I needed it
and for not throwing me in the deep
end completely. Here`s to more
interesting stories.
WORKING: Junior reporter, Ayesha
Nakidien from the AlShabaab
Editorial Youth Media team, putting
theory to practice at the 4 the
Humanitarian conference
hosted by the MJC.

Union to co-oordinate PICTURE: Zakareeyah Panday

charitable and voluntary

efforts in Palestine
AYESHA NAKEDIEN among and between
charitable organisations
On Saturday the 7th of is the best way to sup-
February 2009, the port the Palestinians'
Muslim Judicial effort, preserve their
Council and "Eitilaf El existence and great her-
Khair" (Union of Good) itage and develop their
opened the 4th annual personal abilities and
conference at the Parow infrastructure."
Civic Centre. The con- (according to their
ference was in aid of Charter)
the Humanitarian crisis
in Palestine. The two-day conference
was attended by leading
The mission of "Eitilaf public figures, among
El Khair" is them were Sudan's
"Coordination and suc- Former President Dr
cessful communication Siwar Al Dhahab, for-
mer Mufti of Palestine
Imam Ikrimah Sabri
and international dele-
gates from 16 countries.
The objectives of the
E'tilaf El Khair is to
reframe the priorities of
charitable and relief
work for Palestinians
and to coordinate the
charitable, voluntary
and relief organisations
serving Palestinians.
UNION OF GOOD: Delegates at the E'tilaf El Ghair conference held at The
Capetonian Hotel in February.
 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430 5
Youth on The MOVE

Youngest contenders PICTURE: Zakareeyah Panday

scoops Second Place

in 'Hubb 4 Life"
competition
The Husami Go- PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
Getters, representing
the Husami masjid in
Cravenby was awarded PLEDGING: The learners of Darul Islam pledging their commitment to a peace-
second place in the ful Palestine
YEF 'Hubb 4
Life'/'Love for Life'
Business Plan competi-
tion, convened by the
Palestinian youth rally 2009
Youth Engineering the AYESHA NAKEDIEN poems and song. Among the
Future (YEF) Project speakers were Sheikh Ebrahim
Trust on 30 November On Monday 9th February 2009, Gabriels and Abu Zaid - an inter-
2008 at SANZAF H/O the Islamic schools of Cape Town national delegate from Morrocco.
and Centre for gathered at the Darul Islam Abu Zaid, on seeing the various
Educational and Skills Islamic High School campus in presentations stated that in his
Development in Salt Surrey Estate in an effort to voice heart, he felt that the future of
River. Participants their outrage at the situation in Islam would be upheld with digni-
had to develop a busi- Palestine. And to show their sup- ty and steadfastness. Even though
ness plan inorder to TEAM: (Team leader) Muneer Parker, Aadila Ahmed, port and solidarity towards the each school had a different man-
create a Young partici- Waseemah Moerat, Rameez Kamaloodien, Kawthar Langry, Palestinian people who have been ner of bringing their views across,
pative space within the Ismail Shaik Ahmed, Fayaz Parker, Ibrahim Allie and
Mu’mina Moollaagee. attacked and brutally murdered. the message remained the same.
masjid. They also had Darul Islam, AL-Azhar, Madressa We the youth have to play our
to identify and develop focus will be placed on am the youngest in my Tarbiyya, Hidaayatul Islam, role. Palestine is not only the land
sustainable frameworks the 12 to 17 year age family. I love food, fast Islamia, Iqra Academy, Noorul of the Palestinians, but the land of
to revitalise the masjid group. Husami Youth cars and computers. I Huda, Iglaasiniyya and other reli- all Muslims. We must stand up
as an integral, func- will position itself as an would like to become an gious schools attended the rally. and be counted. Through unity, we
tional and vibrant fun- educational resource for IT engineer one day. My Students from various schools will be victorious.
damental in the devel- young Muslims wishing strengths are being able expressed their views through
opment Muslim Youth. to learn about the bene- to work effectively
fits of growing spiritu- within a team as well as
The Husami Go-Getters ally in a non-Muslim being a great team
was awarded R2500
from the Sulayman
society.
We believe as youth,
leader.
Darul Islam Youth prioritises
Health and Nutrition
Bhayat Foundation. that we need the support Muneer Parker, 17
The YEF would like to of our parents, siblings, years
thank the Adjudicators family, educators, I am currently in matric
of the YEF 'Hubb 4 Ulama and other role and going Hifz part The Darul Islam High school par- leadership skills and instilling in
Life' Business Plans players to be able to time. I love sports, cars ticipated in the YEF 'Hubb 4 them God Consciousness. Our
competition namely, transform our society and I am always up for a Life'/'Love for Life' Business Plan vision is to be-able to empower the
Rudewaan Arendse, into an exemplary one. challenge. I am a help- competition, convened by the Youth youth by opening an innovative and
Amina Bhayat, Dr The Husami Youth com- ful, sociable, confident Engineering the Future (YEF) vibrant youth centre, so that we
Anwa Nagiah, Mickaeel mittee will provide a and adventurous indi- Project Trust on 30 November 2008 may redirect the youth`s attention
Collier, Sheikh Shahied unique platform for vidual. I believe that at SANZAF H/O and Centre for towards beneficial endeavors. Our
Esau and M. Amien young Muslims together my strengths include Educational and Skills mission is to keep the youth away
Jacobs for their selfless with their families to being able to speak up Development in Salt River. from harmful and idle activities and
support. further grow as an and have my views and Participants had to develop a busi- remain in a safe, fun, inspirational
Islamic unit. opinions heard. ness plan inorder to create a Young and educational environment.
About the Husami Go- participative space within the Thereby enabling us to embark on a
Getters Our Team Aadila Ahmed, 13 masjid. They also had to identify journey to better ourselves and
Our at vision at Husami Kawthar Langry, 14 years and develop sustainable frame- inspire our fellow young brothers
Go-Getters Youth years I am currently in grade works to revitalise the masjid as an and sisters to do the same.
Group is to build I am a hard worker 8. I enjoy participating integral, functional and vibrant We are committed to developing
bridges of understand- always helpful towards in debates, swimming fundamental in the development leading scholars, sportspersons
ing, love, respect, and others. I enjoy making reading and watching Muslim Youth. together with young dynamic lead-
hope between young new friends and trying TV. I am a friendly, ers and ambassadors for Islam. The
Muslims and all the role new things. I am quite helpful, confident and The YEF would like to thank the Darul Islam Youth Committee is
players in society, with shy and wouldn't usual- caring person. My Adjudicators of the YEF 'Hubb 4 made up of a diverse and energetic
a special focus on fami- ly speak in big crowds strengths include being Life' Business Plans competition group of individuals, each bringing
ly relations and devel- but if the need arises, I able to find a solution to namely, Rudewaan Arendse, Amina a unique quality to the organization,
opment. Our mission is will always try my best. any problem. Bhayat, Dr Anwa Nagiah, Mickaeel thus enabling our committee to cre-
to create an interactive I also enjoy reading and 2009 Event: Collier, Sheikh Shahied Esau and ate a positive awareness of Islam.
forum which is both writing. Friendship Festival M. Amien Jacobs for their selfless
educational and enjoy- where we will confi- support. Diarise our Event:
able in order to support Mu'mina Moollagee, dently discuss dating, Darul Islam Health Festival -
and nurture the Islamic 13years sexuality, friendship About the Darul Islam Youth nutrition, diets, exercise and
identity of young I am currently in grade and Islam, participate We at Darul Islam Youth, strive to beauty taking place in April.
Muslims growing up in 8. I am a dedicated, in a Debate, 'Know empower the youth in order to build
South Africa innovative, confidant, your Partner' quiz, a better future by fostering their
determined and hard make friendship mem-
Our objective is to cre- working individual. My orabilia.
ate an interactive and strengths are helping When: Saturday 28
participatory environ-
ment that relates with
people and solving February 2009 Albaraka Bank Proud Supporter of
problems. I enjoy read- Time: Thur to Esha
the needs of young ing and eating, but I prayer the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life' project
Muslims in society dislike vegetables and Venue: Husami Masjid,
today. As well as an dogs. Cravenby 42 Klipfontein and Belgravia Roads, Ahtlone, 7764
environment free from Entry fee: R5.00, Tel: 021 637 8800
intimidation for those Ismail Shaik Ahmed, Boerewors rolls, juice Fax: 021 637 8805
young Muslims seeking 13 years and refreshments on
spirituality. A special I have three sisters and I sale.
Banking only one way, the Islamic way
 6 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430

Youth on The MOVE

Youth group placed Israel should be banned

from 2010 World Cup
3rd in ‘Hubb 4 Life’ MIKAEEL ADAMS crowd that it was the

competition
The Helping Hands,
Connecting Hearts team,
representing Masjidus
Sunni in Kromboom was
awarded third place in the
YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'/'Love
for Life' Business Plan
competition, convened by
the Youth Engineering the
Future (YEF) Project
Trust on 30 November
2008 at SANZAF H/O and
Centre for Educational
and Skills Development in
Salt River. Participants
had to develop a business
plan inorder to create a
Young participative space
within the masjid. They
also had to identify and
develop sustainable frame-
works to revitalise the
masjid as an integral,
functional and vibrant
fundamental in the devel-
opment Muslim Youth.
About our team:
Gaafitha Abdul Razak
I am studying Hifdh and
love laughing and spending
time with my friends (my
favorite people in the
world). I am a very socia-
ble individual. I am always
up for trying new things
and having a good time. I
enjoy travelling to differ-
ent countries and meeting
new people. I am a very
determined person. Fast
cars and food are two
things that excites me
greatly…lol. My weakness
is public speaking. I do
untouched spaces. I am
passionate about life and
its many different, beauti-
ful and scary trials. In
essence, I would describe
myself as a complex pas-
sionate being that never
gives up and never loses
hope.
Miekaeel Adams
I am currently completing
my Hifdh programme and
hope to qualify as a
Chartered Accountant. I
have an effervescent per-
sonality and love people,
drama and sport. I am driv-
PICTURES: Moosa Brown
The Palestinian Solidarity
Group (PSG) with its partners
held a Mass Rally at the
Violets Rugby Sports ground
in February to end the
'Humanitarian Crises in
Palestine'. Mercia Andrews of
PSG said, 'the struggle in
Palestine is even longer than
South Africa's (liberation)
struggle.' She called for
Israel's soccer team to be
banned from the 2010 World
Cup. And, former Minister of
Intelligence, Ronnie Kastrils,
said that South Africans can
never celebrate their freedom
until Palestine is free.
Allan Boesak reminded the
Palestinians that helped them
(South Africans) fight for free-
dom from Apartheid.
'Christians should stand up
against Israel in the same man-
ner that they stood up against
the apartheid government of
South Africa,' said Boesak
Cosatu, Zwellenzima Vavi
called for:
All companies should refuse to
carry shipment to Israel.
The SA government should
stand up against the Apartheid
State of Israel
The media should express the
truth
Israel should be banned from
the 2010 World Cup.
PICTURES: Ghafithaa Abdul Razak

The Helping Hands,

Connecting Hearts team
was awarded R1500 from
the Sulayman Bhayat
Foundation. The YEF
would like to thank the
Adjudicators of the YEF
'Hubb 4 Life' Business
Plans competition namely,
Rudewaan Arendse, Amina
Bhayat, Dr Anwa Nagiah,
Mickaeel Collier, Sheikh
Shahied Esau and M.
Amien Jacobs for their
selfless support.
About the Helping Hands,
Connecting Hearts
Our vision at Helping
Hands, Connecting Hearts
Youth Committee is to be-
able to grow as a communi-
ty, using the universal prin-
ciples of Islam namely,` Al
Kulliya tus Sit`, which is
the preservation of Belief,
life, intellect, lineage,
honor, wealth and prosperi-
ty.
We plan to cultivate an
environment based on
trust, love and respect. Our
goal is to support the for-
mation of an identity of
young Muslims and non-
Muslims alike growing up
in a multi- cultural plural-
istic environment. We
intend to develop fun, edu-
cational and interactive
programmes, which attract
young persons towards
spirituality. It is our mis-
sion to provide a pleasura-
ble and participative space
in which to educate and
empower young persons.
TEAM: back (l-r) Mikaeel Adams, Amien Karriem, Yaaseen
Ebrahim, Wazeer Isaacs, Raees Ismail and Suhail Waggie
(infront) Musaddiqah Brown, Israh Ariefdien, Ghaafithau Abdul
Razak and Uzair Achmat
however posses a great
passion for photography
and would like to become a
photographer one day.
Musaddiqah Brown
I am studying Hifdh and
enjoy shopping, chilling
with my friends and watch-
ing movies. I am a very
lovable person and I enjoy
making new friends. I am
afraid of dogs and spiders.
I am a very quiet person
but once you get to know
me you will discover my
true personality. It is my
dream to become a doctor
one day.
Raees Ahmed Ismail
I would describe myself as
person that is driven by
success and challenges. It
is my dream to achieve the
inconceivable, the implau-
sible and the most far-
fetched of dreams. I am not
afraid to just be me and to
venture into open
SOLIDARITY: (l-r) Speakers at the PSG 'Stop the Humanitarian Crises in
Palestine' mass rally are Mercia Andrews - PSG; Nozizwe Madlala-
Routledge -Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Zwellenzima Vavi -
COSATU
en and motivated to suc-
ceed in all that I plan to do.
Israh Ariefdien, 14years
I am currently studying
Hifdh and still undecided
as to what I would like to
study after my Hifdth pro-
gramme. I don't particular-
ly like public speaking but
I do enjoy the planning of a
project or event. I like
learning new things and my
favourite colour is red.
Yaaseen Ebrahim EXPERIMENTING: Mussaadiqa Brown and Miekaeel Adams, from YEF
I matriculated two years Helping Hands, Connecting Hearts with former president of Sudan Dr
ago and then decided to Siwar Al Dhahab at mass rally, Vygieskraal.
pursue the memorisation of
the Holy Quran. When I am
done with my Hifdh pro-
gramme I would like to fur-
ther my studies in the arts,
graphic design or anima-
tion fields. I enjoy meeting
people and learning new
things.
Diarise our event:
Car Rush (Driver
Education Programme)
taking place in October.

The South African National Zakaah Fund (SANZAF)

Proud Supporter of the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life' project space
SANZAF Western Cape Head Office and Centre for Education
& Skills Development SHARING: - Taj and Maggie from the Stoke-on-tent college, Manchester
381 Lower Main Road, Salt River Tel: 021 447 0297 e-mail:www.sanzaf.org.za UK visits the Ibn Jazariy academy in Kromboom.
 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430
Al-A
Azhar High school in Athlone adopts
the Colorado Park masjid youth
The Al-Azhar High school partici-
pated in the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'/'Love
for Life' Business Plan competition,
convened by the Youth Engineering
the Future (YEF) Project Trust on
30 November 2008 at SANZAF H/O
and Centre for Educational and
Skills Development in Salt River.
Participants had to develop a busi-
ness plan inorder to create a Young
participative space within the
masjid. They also had to identify and
develop sustainable frameworks to
revitalise the masjid as an integral,
functional and vibrant fundamental
in the development Muslim Youth.
The YEF would like to thank the
Adjudicators of the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'
Business Plans competition namely,
Rudewaan Arendse, Amina Bhayat,
Dr Anwa Nagiah, Mickaeel Collier,
Sheikh Shahied Esau and M. Amien
Jacobs for their selfless support.
About Al-Azhar High youth team
At Al-Azhar, our objectives are to
create a unique, innovative concept
that will attract the youth towards the
spiritual environment of the mosque.
Highlighting the diversity within
Islam and moving away from the stig-
ma attached to it.
We aim to empower the youth by giv-
ing them a voice and thereby afford-
ing them with an opportunity to
express their viewpoints.
We at Al-Azhar, plan to promote the
Mosque as a safe haven for young
people, in so doing provide an envi-
ronment which encourages communi-
MUSCLE spiritually uplifts youth
The Darun Naim Boys High school
participated in the YEF 'Hubb 4
Life'/'Love for Life' Business Plan
competition, convened by the
Youth Engineering the Future
(YEF) Project Trust on 30
November 2008 at SANZAF H/O
and Centre for Educational and
Skills Development in Salt River.
Participants had to develop a busi-
ness plan inorder to create a Young
participative space within the
masjid. They also had to identify
and develop sustainable frame-
works to revitalise the masjid as an
integral, functional and vibrant
fundamental in the development
Muslim Youth.
The YEF would like to thank the
Adjudicators of the YEF 'Hubb 4
Life' Business Plans competition
namely, Rudewaan Arendse, Amina
Bhayat, Dr Anwa Nagiah, Mickaeel
Collier, Sheikh Shahied Esau and
M. Amien Jacobs for their selfless
support.
About MUSCLE - Darun Naim
Boys
Muscle Association or Muslims
United for Social, Cultural and
Leadership through Education is an
organisation with the sole purpose
of attracting youth to the mosque in
order to uplift the community on a
mainly spiritual level through aca-
demic and extramural activities.
Our mission is to inspire and gener-
ate enthusiasm among the youth to
get involved in and around the
7
Youth on The MOVE
Al-A
Azhar High
achieves 100%
pass rate
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen youth group at
Radio 786. In SHAAKIRA DE VRIES
2008, I entered the
V o d a c o m The Al-Azhar High School in
Journalist of the January 2005, moved from the
Year not knowing Ottery campus, where the
where that would Primary school was also housed
lead me…to tell to its premises in Athlone. We
you the truth, I started the year with 182 stu-
entered just for dents, 11 teachers and 9 class
fun. As a result, units. Since then our intake has
my radio feature increased steadily over the past 4
was short listed years. Currently (in our 5th year
and I made the at this campus) our enrolment
regional finals. I stands at 330 students, 23 teach-
hope to make 2009 ers and 13 class units which will
a successful year. I soon increase to 15 units once the
believe that the additional two classrooms have
Youth Engineering been completed.
the Future will Our academic record has also
take me places and rapidly improved over the 4
TEAM: (Team leader) Abdurosheed Emandien; Shaakirah De that is why I am years. In 2007 we had our first
Vries; Su-aad Williams; Fatima Ryklief; Zainap Martin; group of matriculants who sat for
Shakira Jeppie; Yumna Abdul and Khaliel Doutie forming part of the
executive commit- the National Senior Certificate
cation and tolerance among teens. tee. examination. Our pass percentage
Our team Abdurosheed Emandien rate in this examination was
Su-ad Williams, Fatima Ryklief, As a muslim, there is an expectation 88.8% with 56.8% Exemptions.
Zainab Martin, Shakira Jeppie, from Allah S.W.T that makes me a In the 2008 Grade 12 Final NSC
Yumna Abdol, Khaliel Doutie representative for Islam as a whole. examination, we achieved a
Shaakirah De Vries, 17 years Thus I can say that being a Muslim 100% pass rate with 58%
I am an extrovert and I am always has molded me into a respectable per- Endorsements. The majority of
doing things to improve my knowl- son who behaves ethically. I see the our students who have success-
edge of media. I am extremely inter- YEF programme as a social uplift- fully completed their Grade 12
ested in media as a whole. I wish to ment scheme and would be suitable examinations have gone on to
pursue a career in journalism If I for a person like me. study further at tertiary institu-
could describe myself in one word it tions in this country and abroad.
would probably be practical, because Our Event 82% of the 2007 candidates are
I believe that things do not happen on Al-Azhar High/ Colorado Park- now studying at a tertiary institu-
their own. If you really want some- Empowering the youth on media tion. Many others are studying
thing you have to reach out for it in and IT either in the Health Sciences,
your own way and make things hap- Engineering or Commerce fields.
pen for yourself. In 2007 I joined the Some have gone on to study
Islamic Law and Religion.
Al-A
Azhar primary
mosque as well as tak- PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen honours its elderly
ing part in its activi-
ties. By attracting the
neighbours
youth, we ensure a
stronger foundation
for the next genera-
tion. Our aim is not
only to keep the youth
occupied, but to pro-
vide guidance and a
positive social climate
to nurture their minds.
We hope to reduce the
number of misguided
youth found on streets
and enhance the num-
ber of youths helping
Islam flourish.
About our team TEAM: Abdul-Kader Davids, Altaaf Harnaker and PAMPERED: The principal and staff of
Touhir Mohamed the Al-Azhar primary school hosted its
Altaaf Harnaker annual Muharram lunch for their elderly
I am currently in my neighbours. The neighbours were treated
second year of Arabic and Islamic Touhir Mohamed, 17years to a 3 course sumptuous lunch prepared
Studies at Darun Na'im - Institute I am currently in the second year of and served by the teaching staff.
for Higher Islamic Learning. Prior my Islamic studies course at Darun-
to that I attended Habibia Primary Naim. I attended Madrassa-tu-
School and I matriculated from Tarbiyyah Primary School. The Muslim Judicial Council
Islamia College in 2007. I enjoy Thereafter I completed my hifdh of
camping, fishing, hiking, martial the Quran under Sheikh Ismail
(MJC) Proud Supporter of the
arts, swimming and being with Londt. I spend my free time playing YEF 'Hubb 4 Life' project
friends. games, and I enjoy all types of
sport.
Abdul-Kader Davids, 20 years Our Event
I completed grade 7 at Morgenson Darun Naim Ijtimaa- Separate
Primary School, thereafter I attend- Boys and Girls religious camps
ed Darul Uloom Arabia wal Islamia taking place in Junetion. Many
in Strand, where I concluded my others are studying either in the
hifdh after four years. My hobbies Health Sciences, Engineering or
are reading, swimming, playing Commerce fields. Some have gone 20 Cashel Avenue, Athlone
cricket and rugby, taking walks and on to study Islamic Law and Tel: 021 696 5150/1/2
learning new things. Religion. www.mjc.org.za
 8 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430

Youth on The MOVE

Al-S
Shams applies ing time with my friends and
having fun I know when to be A junior reporter’s
first experience
intergrated Islamic
serious. I've lived by the
moto: "live life to the fullest",
always hold your head up high UMAYMAH DAVIDS

approach
The Al-Shams youth team
from Park Road masjid par-
ticipated in the YEF 'Hubb 4
Life'/'Love for Life' Business
Plan competition, convened
by the Youth Engineering the
Future (YEF) Project Trust
on 30 November 2008 at SAN-
ZAF H/O and Centre for
Educational and Skills
Development in Salt River.
Participants had to develop a
business plan inorder to cre-
ate a Young participative
space within the masjid. They
also had to identify and devel-
op sustainable frameworks to
revitalise the masjid as an
integral, functional and
vibrant fundamental in the
development Muslim Youth.
The YEF would like to thank
the Adjudicators of the YEF
'Hubb 4 Life' Business Plans
competition namely,
Rudewaan Arendse, Amina
Bhayat, Dr Anwa Nagiah,
Mickaeel Collier, Sheikh
Shahied Esau and M. Amien
Jacobs for their selfless sup-
port.
About Al-Shams
Our mission is to encourage a
lifelong participation within
Al-Shams in order to create a
thriving community. As well
as forming a relationship and
network with other youth
groups and organizations. Our
youth group will ensure that
an integrated Islamic approach
is fostered in all activities,
TEAM: From left to right: Shuaib Van der Schyff-12years, Team
leader – Gafeedha Davids-19years UWC student, Nabeelah
Davids-14 years, Umaymah Davids – 17years and Uzair Ramjam
– 16years
which we undertake all the
while being mindful of the
environment in which we live.
Our philosophy is to provide a
unique atmosphere for youth
to interact and develop in an
environment that would
encourage sharing and the gal-
vanizing of different ideas,
feelings and opinions in order
for them to contribute mean-
ingfully towards their own
personal growth and the
advancement of our communi-
ty.
Our vision is to provide youth
with a unique space to grow
physically, intellectually and
spiritually enabling them to
lead a positive lifestyle
strengthened by Islam and to
remain mindful of our respon-
sibilities as youth. At Al-
Shams, we hope to position
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
ourselves as an educational
resource for individuals wish-
ing to learn about Islam and its
culture.
Our team
Nabeelah Davids, 14
My education is very impor-
tant to me although I don't like
sport that much. Being an
executive member is an honor
for me because I see this as an
opportunity to develop in all
aspects of life insh-allah.
Growing up in a western soci-
ety can be a difficult task, but
I hope this program will equip
me with the necessary skills.
Umaymah Davids, 18 years
I am a first year student at the
University of the Western
Cape, studying computer sci-
ence. I'm a fun outgoing per-
son who is game for almost
anything. While I love spend-
Allah won't make you carry a
burden you cant bare. Being my first time going out into
the world and having to take notes
Gafeedha Davids and interview people was nerve-
I am a 2nd year occupational racking. I had no idea what to expect
therapist student at UWC. I and how to react. While sitting and
am the eldest of 3 girls. Being listening to the speakers I was taken
the oldest is not an easy job. It in by what they said and the way
can be very stressful at times, they said it. As the night progressed I
but all I can do is be grateful became more relaxed but when I
and thank our Almighty Allah. spoke to some of the guests my
The reason I chose occupa- stomach was in a knots all over
tional therapy as a career is again. I got up the courage interview
because I have the passion to the guests and had a blast. I’d love to
work with people and to do it again soon.
enable them to live a satisfac-
tory life with or without a dis- Shukran for the opportunity.
ability and to help them fulfil
their daily occupations suc-
cessfully.
I'm an honest, trustworthy,
patient and understanding
individual going through life
looking for opportunities to
grow and to become a
stronger, independent individ-
ual within society. I am a
responsible person with the
courage to pursue my vision
and my dreams. A positive
attitude brought me to where I
am today and a positive atti-
tude will take me through life
Insh-Allah.
Uzair Ramjam, 17years
I am extremely imaginative
and really expressive. I am
outspoken, and an excellent
mediator, yet I can still remain
critical an empathetic. I am
independent and hardworking.
I am interested in literature,
comparative religion, current
affairs and politics, especially
Middle Eastern politics.

YEF breaking the ice

UZAIR RAMJAM this was a mutual feeling laughter - we had
PICTURES: Zakareeyah Panday

amongst us. You try speaking so much fun.

It probably seemed like just
another 'Youth Engineering
the Future' gathering, where
we would have another meet-
ing and receive our next task,
but this was not the case at
all.
We all met at the MJC office
and it was interesting to note
that we, naturally, stood with
our own crowd. The atmos-
phere was, to a certain
extent, tense because no one
really knew each other. Oh,
but was that going to change.
We finally arrived at our des-
tination, Spier, and what a
wonderful place it is. We
then had time to roam around
and see what Spier had to
offer. But my highlight was
playing the interactive game
next on our agenda.
Boys and girls were separat-
ed and were to stand in a line,
opposite someone. We were
then given one minute each
to introduce ourselves.
Honestly, it was somewhat
difficult for me. And I think
to someone about yourself
for one minute and try and
make an excellent first
impression. Admit - it is dif-
ficult!
Once our game came to a
close, the most perplexing
part approached. Not only
did we have to remember
everyone's name, we had to
draw a person's name out of a
hat and describe them to the
group. Sometimes the group
knew whom the orator was
speaking of, while other ora-
tors were dumbstruck them-
selves.
When we got the person's
name correct, we could draw
a gift out of the bag. We were
all asked to bring a gift with
that resonated the theme
'sharing' without the
Valentines day hoo-haa - no
reds, chocolates, flowers,
cards, candles and soaps -
worst of all the gift could not
exceed R15. Sharing felt so
special with our new friends,
we not only exchanged gifts
but smiles and so much
Then came the most
interesting and
unexpected part, a
message from
Sanaa Petersen, the
YEF facilitator,
who said that the
game we played,
proved that at our
developmental age,
it is difficult to
make a first truth-
ful impression
because we didn't
really know who
we are. She left us
with the question -
So, how is it that
teenagers can be in YEF TEAMBUILDING: YEF team building at Spier, 14 February 2009
a (adult) relation-
ship, and share of themselves the group . tense to a more relaxed feel-
to others, if they don't really ing. And I think the objective
know what qualities they are After this, the whole frame of of the day was successfully
made up of in the first place? mind of the YEF group attained.
changed. Not only did we sit
A quest to find one's self is a in unison, but we spoke What an event it was! This
lifelong journey and only you freely to each other too about gathering was extremely
know when you're really a number of aspects. enjoyable. The ambience,
ready. This message impact- food, games and the people
ed heavily on my conscience On the way back, you could were just awesome.
and made a lot of sense not not help but observe the tran-
just to me but to the rest of sition of the atmosphere from
 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430
STEPS cultivating young leaders YEF gone sailing
The STEPS youth team from
Iqra high school participated
in the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'/'Love
for Life' Business Plan compe-
tition, convened by the Youth
Engineering the Future (YEF)
Project Trust on 30 November
2008 at SANZAF H/O and
Centre for Educational and
Skills Development in Salt
River. Participants had to
develop a business plan inorder
to create a Young participative
space within the masjid. They
also had to identify and devel-
op sustainable frameworks to
revitalise the masjid as an inte-
gral, functional and vibrant
fundamental in the develop-
ment Muslim Youth.
The YEF would like to thank
the Adjudicators of the YEF
'Hubb 4 Life' Business Plans
competition namely, Rudewaan
Arendse, Amina Bhayat, Dr
Anwa Nagiah, Mickaeel Collier,
Sheikh Shahied Esau and M.
Amien Jacobs for their selfless
support.
About STEPS
We at STEPS youth committee
believe that our vision should
please Allah (S.W.T). It is our
mission to transform the
Mosque into a hub where social
responsibility will germinate
amongst the youth. Research
has shown that there is growing
demand for the development of
Islamic youth groups. STEPS
will therefore provide the youth
with a safe Islamic environment
in which they can socialize as
well develop themselves spiri-
tually, physically, emotionally
and intellectually. We recognize
the need to respond to the cur-
rent socio-economic, political,
cultural and religious chal-
lenges facing youth today. It is
our intention to draw the youth
back to the mosque thereby
transforming the mosque into a
hub for constructive activity.
We believe that through our
youth committee, the youth`s
talent and skills will be honed,
cultivated and nurtured thereby
transforming the youth into suc-
cessful leaders.
About the STEPS team
Junaid Mullajee
I am a natural leader with expe-
rience in talking to large
crowds. I enjoy analytical
thinking and intellectual
debates. I`m religiously orien-
tated and I attend a madressa
over weekends. I am a private
person but I can converse well
with most people. I enjoy the
sciences and nature, animals
Proud Supporter of the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life' project
Vangate Mall, Vanguard drive, Athlone, 021 6331065
Hospital Welfare and Muslim Educational Movement (HWMEM) - 021 637 7866
Hijrah Travel, Hashiem Fryddie - 021 7058602
Imam Hashiem Lamara
Taj and Fairuz Aklekker
Cosy Corner, Ottery road, Wynberg - 021 7972494
Debonaires Pizza, Plumstead, Grassy Park and Kenilworth Centre
Youth on The MOVE
TEAM: (Team leader) Junaid Mullagee, Imraan Jappie, Zubair Rusdien,
Gadija Jabaar, Razaan Hindley, Faatimah Naidoo, Shaakirah Rajab, Nurah
Simon, Gaseenah Mentoor, Sameeu’d deen Machelm, Gayaatunisa Ishmail
and Aqeela Van der Berg
and reading. I believe in staying
young and therefore still watch
cartoons, play games and play
with my younger siblings. I am
currently Head Boy of Iqra
Academy.
Fatima Naidoo
I am a dedicated student in
achieving the best in every
aspect and spirited in every
goal. Competitiveness is my
middle name. I tend to be curi-
ous, brilliant, open-minded,
original, independent and
eccentric. I have a highly devel-
oped sense of social equality
and a lightning-fast intuitive
insight.
Sameeu`d Deen Machelm
I am an extremely focused indi-
vidual who possesses a unique
personality. I am tenacious and
humorous as well as loyal to
those who are dear to me. I am
Islamically orientated and
therefore carry myself with
humility and pride. I also have a
sincere love for the game of
cricket.
Caleb Haggland
I am a caring and giving indi-
vidual. I am peace-loving
strongly apposed to using vio-
lence as a method of resolving
problems. I am focused and
therefore I am able to make
decisions on my own without
giving into peer pressure.
Nurah Simon
I am a very committed student. I
am an honest and generous per-
son. I am surprisingly sensitive
and can be dramatic at times. I
love enjoying myself and I
believe that I will achieve and
deserve the very best.
Imraan Jappie
I am a very well mannered and
Awqaf Foundation
9
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
SAILING: The SA National Zakaah Fund invited the YEF
executive members to share in their 'family' day in
February. The YEF enjoyed a day on the Nauticat with a
lazy trip to Seal Island and lunch treat at Fish on the
Rocks.
responsible person. I am a quick
learner and I am able to work
well under pressure. I am intel-
ligent and posses good leader-
ship and management skills. I
am very driven and believe that
nothing is too big to overcome.
I can therefore accomplish any-
thing I set my mind to.
Gaseenah Mentoor
I am generous warm- hearted
person. I can however be self-
centered at times. I am very pro-
tective of the people close to
me, especially children and
those who are weak. I am cre-
ative, dramatic, as well as sensi-
tive. I posses strong organiza-
tional skills and I consider
myself a natural leader, one who CHILLING: The YEF STEPS youth taking a stroll on
Houtbay at the SANZAF Family day.
is always up for a challenge.
Zubair Rusdien
YEF in training
I am a very dedicated person.
The word failure never crosses
my mind. In fact, it is not even
in my vocabulary. I am an
Islamically orientated person
with a great sense of humor and
I enjoy having a good laugh. I
have a great passion for cars.
Both driving and working on
cars brings me great pleasure.
Shaakirah Rajab
I can describe myself as being
an assertive person and I have a
strong sense of self. Holding
grudges is not something that I
would do. I am drawn to physi-
cal activities and adventure
appeals to me. I have a natural
ability to handle any project
CAPTIVATING: Fathima Naidoo and Junaid Mullagee
assigned to me with boldness. I conquers the 'Nail' project management exercise at the
also have a great knack for cre- YEF January breakfast.
ating things.
Our event:
Learner management - July
2009
EDUCATING: Rudewaan Arendse, Project Manager and
a member of the YEF Advisory board, facilitated a proj-
ect management workshop at the January YEF meeting.
He illustrated the importance of planning before execut-
ing any project. The interactive and participative session
proved to the young members that success lies in plan-
ning, attention to detail and assertiveness.
10
SMS
Muharram at Park Road,
Masjid
Our Muharrum program was held
on the 18th January 2009, where the
imam Moegamat Noor invited under
privileged children and families to
celebrate the Islamic new year with
the Wynberg community. The event
started off with a Thikr and snacks
for the guests. A guest speaker
spoke about the difficulties that the
people in Gaza and the significance
of Muharrum. After Thur lunch was
served at the Vigilance wall we as
al-shams helped were necessary.
We are planning to take the youth of
our community to visit Greenpoint
stadium so that they see the devel-
opments and improvements, indeed
it is a historical moment for all of us
because it is history in the making.
We see this as an opportunity for the
youth to be exposed to what is hap-
pening within the country and for
them to realize that tomorrow
belongs to them.
G.Davids, Al-Shams
Thank you, SANZAF
Thnx sanaa u the bst i reali enjoyd
myslf 2day n snd my thnx 2 SAN-
ZAF as we on bhalf of al da STEP
membas we wud lyk 2 tel u thn u
dng a great job n we wil try our bst
2 mke da dream of da yef 2 wrk!
Thn u a star! Imraan Jappie
YEF January Meeting
Salaam i realy njoyd ystrday i learnt
alot . . .my fav part was da nails ha
ha ha embarrassing. Hey but im
realy excited 4all the evnts an otha
thngs that are gona happen.thanx 4
giving us all the opportunity 2make
sumthng of our lives. Yaaseen
Ebrahim
YEF Teambuilding
Slm. Shukran sanaa me had a
wondaful tym saturday!:-) ws
awsome gettng 2no evrybdy. totali
enjyd myslf(",) it ws one of my best
valentines day eva!! Lol once agn
shukran! Hehehe! Ighsaan Sedick
Hey m0wah!shukz 4 yesterday hada
fab day..!fadwah Thorne
Thanks sanaa n evry1 that atendd
the yef team buildn, it brightnd up
my day. Ayesha Nakidien
In the SPOTLIGHT
The message 'Restore unity in Palestine' resonated at
the fourth international humanitarian conference
hosted by the Muslim judicial council (MJC) in
February.
- Umaymah Davids
A guest at the conference
Zeenat Hassan says, "at
the rate things are it is
going to be difficult but
with dua and striving for
what you believe in unity
will prevail."
Networking
LETTERS
Al-A
Azhar high school builds
5 additional classrooms
WORK IN PROGRESS: Worker on site at Al-Azhar High school.
The Al-Azhar Institute of Cape
Town is a fully registered inde-
pendent school that is wholly
dependent on the school fees,
fund raisers and a small subsidy
from the WCED. All our expens-
es, (telephone, rates, electricity,
water, office equipment, station-
ary, duplicating paper, toners,
stencils, daily running expenses,
resource books, etc) have to be
paid from these major sources of
income. We do not receive any
funding from the Al - Azhar
University, Cairo or the Egyptian
Government (as is commonly
believed by our community out-
side of the school) We carry the
name because of an agreement
signed in 1993 between the
Muslim Judicial Council and the
Al-Azhar University Cairo that
they will send Egyptian Al-Azhar
graduates to South Africa to teach
our students the Arabic language.
These Egyptian teachers are paid
by the Egyptian government. That
is where Egypt's responsibility
According to Nazley Solomon
the truth has prevailed this is
the nature of life and we will
have unity. Do not loose hope
because Allah promises unity
to all. We should network and
acquire woman leadership.
PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
ends. The host country must pro-
vide all the infra-structures, as
agreed upon in 1993.
Because of the rapid growth of
the High School, we have been
forced to find funds for the con-
struction of the three laboratories
and 5 additional classrooms. Two
classrooms are near completion.
We are therefore in need of the
necessary furniture and equip-
ment to continue with our pro-
gramme of providing quality edu-
cation to our students.
We are making a very serious and
earnest appeal to you, to please
assist us in continuing on this
path of excellence in education.
Kindly consider how you can
assist this school to make learning
a pleasant experience for all con-
cerned.
Yours in the interest of quality
education
M.S. Christian
Principal - 021 6965475,
Birdwood Ave, Athlone
Another guest, Yaseen says
that what the president said
looks uplifting and insh-allah
the goal is to free Palestine,
Masjidul Aqsa and the peo-
ple of Palestine.
"wa tasie moe bie gablilah
hijamie owala tafa rakoe"
Hold onto the rope of Allah,
because unity is strength, let
us eases the fight in Palestine
Inshallah.
March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430
What happens at
the voting station
on 22 April 2009?
Kindly share this information below with all
voters, in particular the aspect of the Voter
that needs to be taught/reminded that they
have two ballots - one a National Ballot and
the other being a Provincial Ballot
Voting procedure
When you arrive at the voting station in the
voting district where you have registered, the
electoral staff will:
1) Check your ID and hands to ensure
there
is no ink on your fingers;
2) Verify if the photo in your green bar-
coded ID looks like you and verify that
you are registered;
3) Cross your name from the segment of
the voters' roll;
4) Mark your left thumb with indelible
ink;
5) Issue two ballot papers i.e. national and
provincial ballot papers;
6) Direct you to a voting booth to cast your
votes.
Once you have marked the ballot papers you
must place your ballots in the ballot box.
Shukran and Was salaam
Aslam Salie
W Cape Director of Communications
ALJAMA Political Party
Registered Political Party in terms
of Electoral Commissions Act,
1996 (Act No 51 of 1996)
http://www.aljama.co.za/
Developing partnerships with
Africa and the Gulf states
FIRDOWS BADROODIEN
The Gulf Research
Center held its first
annual forum at the
CTICC on 24-25
February to develop
strategic partnerships
with Africa and the
Gulf states.
Chairman of the Gulf
Research Center, Abdulaziz Sager
Abdulaziz Sager in his
address said that the development of a multi-level
economic, social and political relationship is cru-
cial to creating a beneficial and sustainable part-
nership with Africa. The Strategy Forum entitled
"Developing a New Strategic Partnership" is "a
milestone not only for the Gulf Research Center
but also in the long history of Gulf-Africa rela-
tions. In addition, this partnership has become all
the more important in the current context of the
global financial crisis." Sager stated that the con-
ference would serve as the perfect platform for
both regions to undertake the task of better under-
standing each other as well as working on a strong
recovery from the global economic crisis.
The Gulf-Africa Strategy Forum aimed to cement
the Gulf-Africa relationship by offering an in-
depth assessment of the status of ties and a clear
outlook to where the relationship could be head-
ing. The Gulf-Africa Strategy Forum will become
an annual GRC conference event which will bring
together the key leaders and personalities from
business, academia, government and media to out-
line the main issues and challenges facing more
constructive relations between the key regions of
Africa and the Gulf.
 March 2009 - Rabi-ul-Awwal 1430 11

Darun Naim girls promoting Islam ' I t ' s A b o u t M e '

The Darun Naim Girls - Young
Changemakers for Youth
Empowerment participated in
the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'/'Love for
Life' Business Plan competition,
convened by the Youth
Engineering the Future (YEF)
Project Trust on 30 November
2008 at SANZAF H/O and
Centre for Educational and
Skills Development in Salt River.
Participants had to develop a
business plan inorder to create a
Young participative space within
the masjid. They also had to
identify and develop sustainable
frameworks to revitalise the
masjid as an integral, functional
and vibrant fundamental in the
development Muslim Youth.
The YEF would like to thank the
Adjudicators of the YEF 'Hubb 4
Life' Business Plans competition
namely, Rudewaan Arendse,
Amina Bhayat, Dr Anwa Nagiah,
Mickaeel Collier, Sheikh Shahied
Esau and M. Amien Jacobs for
their selfless support.
Darun Naim Masjid Girls:
Young Changemakers for Youth
Empowerment
The Darun Naim Masjid Girls
and Boys school participated in
the YEF 'Hubb 4 Life'/'Love for
Life' Business Plan competition,
convened by the Youth
Engineering the Future (YEF)
Project Trust on 30 November
2008 at SANZAF H/O and Centre
for Educational PICTURES: Sanaa Petersen
and Skills The 'It's About Me' (IAM) project is a
Development in Trust with the aim of sharing and pre-
Salt River. serving home-grown stories and experi-
Participants had ences. In addition to promoting literacy
to develop a busi- and encourage writing, its core element
ness plan inorder is to help young girls and women recog-
to create a Young nise negative growth barriers including
participative stereotypes, prejudice, conditioning,
space within the expectations and fears (external and
masjid. They also internal).
had to identify
and develop sus- Although, South Africans share a unify-
tainable frame- ing history of struggle, hope and tri-
works to revi- TEAM: (Team leader) Athira du Toit -16, Aliah goder, umph, it sadly does not share the same
talise the masjid Amaal Goder, Zahrah Goder – 16, Ayesha Mohammed history when it comes to sharing of sto-
as an integral, -15, Tauhira Mohammed -18years. ries across racial, gender and genera-
functional and tional boundaries. Sharing of stories
vibrant fundamental in the devel- the hub of the community. And is through conversation and writing can
opment Muslim Youth. seen as a place to engage with be magical - it can be a healing and
The YEF would like to thank the and empower young Muslims, developmental experience. When you
Adjudicators of the YEF 'Hubb 4 allowing them to take responsi- hear or read someone else's story you
Life' Business Plans competition bility for self development and demystify prejudice, stereotyping,
namely, Rudewaan Arendse, development of their community. expectations, fears and negative per-
Amina Bhayat, Dr Anwa Nagiah, Our objectives are to make the ceptions, instead you star t to develop
Mickaeel Collier, Sheikh Shahied masjid friendly to the youth, to new insights in the storyteller. Insights
Esau and M. Amien Jacobs for promote Islam and bridge cultur- that can develop into great friendships
their selfless support. al differences. To help the youth based on understanding, compassion,
About the Young rediscover the value of living life respect and love.
Changemakers for Youth the Islamic way and to create a
Empowerment space for young people so that On the 15 March, 2009 we will be
We see the masjid as a place they are able to develop life launching the first compilation of grass-
where we, the youth can learn, skills and responsibilities, which roots women's stories titled, 'Silence
have fun and interact in an they need in order for them to Speaks'. The Depar tment of Justice and
Islamic environment resulting in deal with the challenges of grow- Constitutional Development has gra-
the beneficial development of the ing up. ciously sponsored the printing of IAM
community at large. Our mission Our Team: journals.
is to provide a platform whereby Adhira du Toit, Aliah Goder, Amaal We would like to honour our courageous
the role of the masjid in the 21st Goder, Zahrah Goder, Ayesha par ticipants and host an afternoon in
Century, has once again become Mohammed and Tauhira Mohammed sharing stories with women from
diverse environments.

Muslim Polygamy case goes to

Launch Details:
Date: Sunday, 15 March 2009
Time: 3 - 7pm

Constitutional Court
SANAA PETERSEN
Fatima Gabie Hassam, a Muslim
widow, is waiting to hear if the
Constitutional Court will allow her
to inherit a portion of her late hus-
band's estate despite the fact that
she was in a polygamous Muslim
marriage. Hassam was the first
wife and her husband died intestate
(without a will). Hassam
approached the Cape High Court
after her husband's death because
the executor of his estate did not
believe the validity of her polyga-
mous marriage and refused to give
her part of her dead husband's
inheritance. Hassam's attorney,
Ighsaan Higgins said, 'There is a
whole sector of women that's been
prejudiced by not being able to
inherit from the executor's estate as
well as they are not able to benefit
from the provisions of the
Maintenance of the Surviving
Spouses Act."
Four legal teams and Friends of the
court, the Muslim Youth Movement
(MYM) and Women's Legal Centre
argued the matter in the
Constitutional Court on Thursday,
19 February 2009. In supporting
Hassam the MYM quoted F.
Cachalia paper on ''Citizenship,
Muslim family law and a future
South African constitution: a pre-
liminary enquiry', 'The conse-
quences of non-recognition are seri-
ous, particularly for the wife.
Although a couple may regard
themselves as married according to
the tenets of their religion, the law
treats them as strangers. There is
therefore no legal nexus between
them: there is no joint estate and
any nuptial agreement is void; there
are no financial obligations between
the spouses inter se and no claim for
loss of support accrues to the depen-
dant spouse on the death of her
'husband'; she has no claim for
maintenance on divorce or against
her husband's deceased estate; she
is effectively disinherited if her hus-
band dies intestate; she may be
compelled to give evidence against
her spouse in criminal proceedings;
and the law attaches the stigma of
illegitimacy to her children.'
Higgins said none of the legal teams
objected to the key arguments. The
judges wanted to ascertain if
Hassam had been a spouse," said
Higgins. This arose out of a dispute
on whether or not a fasakh had been
issued, which would have caused a
separation between the deceased
and his first wife.
"There was some dispute on
whether it had been revoked at
some point or not. But we managed
to overcome that difficulty, because
the judges did not want to go into
the conflict between civil law and
Islamic law. They did not want to
tamper in any way with Islamic
Law so they accepted that Hassam
had in fact being a spouse in the
context of a polygamous marriage.
Venue: UCT Tennis Club, Ring road,
Upper campus, Rondebosch
Cost: R100
We then just had to argue the law
pertaining to it," said Higgins Tel: 021 6972294, Cell: 084 774 4174,
Email: info@islamicmedia.co.za
According to the MYM the 'non-
recognition of women in polyga-
mous Muslim marriages as spouses
severely prejudices such women
who are unable to access the system
of benefits created by the State for
widows, who have been determined
by the Constitutional Court to be a
vulnerable group in society'.
The MYM further argues that the
'non-recognition of these women as
spouses fails to have regard to their
lived reality and fails to accommo-
date the diversity within our hetero-
gonous society by recognising that
people who live according to the
tenets of Islam do enter into polyga-
mous marriages'.
Hassam has filed a draft order
which she wishes the Constitutional
Court to make. "The draft order
declares section 1 of the Intestate
Succession Act to be inconsistent
with the Constitution and invalid to
the extent that it does not include
the surviving partner in a polyga-
mous Muslim marriage and propos-
es a new construction of the
Intestate Succession Act. It further Please support the Youth Media
declares that the word "survivor" in
the Maintenance of Surviving and “It's About Me” projects
Spouses Act should be read to
include surviving partners of polyg- BANKING DETAILS
amous Muslim marriages. Islamic Media Agency cc
FNB, Sandton City, Branch Code: 254-605
Account Number: 62033040007
 YEF 2009 Events Calendar
January
About YEF ‘Youth Engineering the Future’
YEF Strategy Meeting for 2009
The vision of the respects to the
‘Youth Engineering the debate of identity,
Future’ (YEF) project culture, tradition and
February aims to support the
young Muslim’s
religion. Develop and
enhance proactive and
Friendship Festival (Dating, sexuality, friendship and Islam) - growth in a develop- preventative initia-
Husami GoGetters ing and pluralistic tives with regards to
environment. peer pressure,
The objectives of the HIV/Aids, substance
YEF project are to abuse, sexuality and
March revitalise and/or all forms of violence
develop Islamic mod- and abuse. Enhance
Weekly Halqa on Citizenship and Democracy - Friday after Jumuah civic participation
Leaders of yesteryear and today - Alshams, Park Rd Masjid-2
27th March els or frameworks to
nurture the young with regards to com-
Media Communications Bootcamp - Islamic Media Agency/ munity, political and
Channel 4 Network Islamic identity in a
diverse and pluralistic economic develop-
ment inorder to eradi-
April
environment.
cate poverty and soci-
These Islamic models etal ills. Enhance civic
Darul islam - Health festival- nutrition, diets, exercise, beauty can hopefully; participation in
Public Youth Debate with top5 Political parties on Citizenship and Create a supportive responsible engage-
Democracy platform for SA ment with the media,
Muslim youth growing its technological tools
up in a pluralistic envi- and by-products.
May ronment with

Peace/Unity Carnival - First Cultural and interfaith carnival in

Kalksteenfontien - Alshabaab YEF Youth Executive Branches

Al-Azhar High School

June Colorado Park masjid, Mitchell’s Plain

Separate boys and girls camps - Islam in SA context - Darun naim - ijtimaa
YEF 1st Anniversary - 'Calling all Super Heroes'
Al-Shams
Park Road, Wynberg
Youth Khutbah at various masjids - MJC Youth Affairs
Project Management Course - Awqaf Foundation Darul Islam
Surrey Estate
July
Al-Shabaab
Kalksteenfontein Masjid
Learner management programme/Entrepreneurship -
STEPS/Iqra Academy MUSCLE/Darun-Naim BOYS
Wynberg

August Darun-Naim Girls

Wynberg

Empowering Youth through Media and IT - Al Azhar/Colorado Park Husami GoGetters

Cravenby

STEPS Iqra Academy

September Belhar

Helping Hands, Connecting Hearts

Hifz Academies Play Festival (Pre-R
Ramadhaan) - Islamic Media Agency Masjidus Sunni - Kromboom

CONTACT DETAILS Trustees:

The Board of Advisors of the YEF Trust Lauren Bates and Nabeweya Malick
YEF Partners:
October
are:
Rudewaan Arendse - Project Muslim Judicial Council
Management UCT SA National Zakaah Fund
Amina Bhayat – Economics MA – Albaraka Bank
Nelson Mandela Fellowship Hijrah Travel
Car Rush Event (Driver education programme) - Mickaeel Collier - Political Science (Hon) Imam Hashiem Lamara
UCT, Ma. Cand Exposure Women’s Club
Masjidus Sunni - Kromboom Vangate Mall
Sheikh Abd ‘Al Rasheed Brown – BA
Theology (ICOSA), BA Sociology UCT Awqaf Foundation
Roshaan Misbach – Bcom IS Unisa Islamic Media Agency cc
Channel 4 Network
November
Sheikh Achmat Sedick - MJC
Sheikh Shahied Esau – MP Project Donors
If you would like to receive a copy of the
Founder Trustee: YEF Executive branches Business Plans
Sanaa Petersen please contact SANAA PETERSEN on 021
Examinations - Peer tutoring, study circles in masjid - All YEF Executives 697 2294 /sanaa@islamicmedia.co.za.

Supporting the
December
young Muslims’
development
in a non-Muslim
Youth Connection Leadership programme - Witrivier, Mpumalanga and pluralistic
environment