Big Little Blog

Why Pu-erh tea is your go-to hot beverage during Ramadan

2017-06-01T17:21:00.000+04:00

This Ramadan, try a cup of Puerh tea – little known to the East, this fermented tea has been long valued in Chinese medicine for its vast benefits.

An ideal hot beverage for the holy month of Ramadan, it will awaken your senses after a long day of fasting, rehydrate your body and aid digestion after a heavy meal. Although caffeinated, Puerh tea is known to help control your sleep and wake cycles, meaning it will help you stay alert during taraweh and to adjust to night prayers. It also reduces stress and stabilizes your mood due to micro-organisms which increase the production of melatonin in the brain.

Well-rounded and smooth in texture, its earthy notes will remind you of a certain vintage elegance and can be balanced by a subtle sweetness. Puerh will also nicely complement dim sums, a heavy meal, an aged cheese and will leave you feeling light and energized for a night of worship.

Ramadan Kareem!

When celebs speak up to defend Islam

2014-10-23T23:03:00.001+04:00

We are used to hear the most downright offensive and racist comments about Islam in the news, with the usual misconceptions that tag along.. terrorism, jihadists, cutting off hands, oppressed women, etc etc. Nothing new here.
So, when (non-Muslim) celebrities raise their voices to defend Islam, I'm all ears!

Recently, many A-list singers, sportsmen and actors showed their support on social media to #FreePalestine and end the ongoing war in Gaza. From Madonna to Javier Bardem, their support certainly enlightened many and helped educate the masses. Another propaganda?

But every now and then a more profound, passionate, angry and REAL retort makes headlines, just like Ben Affleck on the TV show "Real Time with Bill Maher" on HBO, Russell Brand on his daily show "The Trews" and a few others.

Watch Ben Affleck lose his temper against stereotypes on Muslims:

Russel Brand and Alec Baldwin on "The Trews":

Another on anti-halal campaign in the US (funnny)

Jon Stewart on the controversy behind All-American Muslims TV show on TLC. Click here to watch.

If you know more, feel free to share them in the comments box below.

Islamic fashion designer Annah Hariri

2014-08-08T11:06:00.000+04:00

I have never been able to find a suitable translation for the french saying 'Coup de coeur' - which literally could be translated as 'heart stroke' in English! Its true meaning is an instant liking in something and, what better way to describe how I fell in love with Annah Hariri's designs.. and since this post is about fashion, why not throw in a little French!

The modest clothing design brand is the brainchild of a European revert, Annah, who created the brand in 2012 shortly after her conversion.
Annah says, "I reverted to Islam and the hardest challenge was to start wearing hijab as I had an enormous ego and love for fashion, clothes and myself. Moreover there was no proper clothing in the market for a working hijabi lady. Actually you could find a few modest items but those would be high street brands which are too pricey and it is an “ihlas” to spend this much on the clothes. So most girls would buy under shirts and wear them under the normal office shirts, tops and even beautiful cocktail dresses (indeed almost under everything because all clothes are either short sleeved or transparent or too tight). Those under shirts did not look right to me. I thought to myself that there has to be another way, an easier way for modest women in the community to dress, women that follow trends, but still be modest and true to the order of hijab & covering their beauty."

As Annah started creating modest clothes for herself, her entourage encouraged her to sell them and she finally opened her own atelier based in Dubai. Now delivering worldwide, her brand is receiving tremendous exposure as she started receiving custom orders, offers wedding dress tailoring services, has launched limited editions of handmade items, a kids' line, and her own store in the UAE.

In my opinion, she is a master of Tutu skirts, available in a variety of bright (mint green, pink) and classic (white, beige, black) colours of tulle, with or without Swarovski crystals, from puffy to extra puffy, buttoned waist with zipper or elastic band for a more casual look etc.. I am yet to receive my tailor-made order of the white, extra puffy skirt :) I can't wait!

The best part is that Annah thinks of everything for us practicing sisters, with small details that make a huge difference:
- full coverage with no transparency
- one-button sleeves are designed for easy ablutions
- super-light fabric for Abayas
- high collar designed for hijab
- from casual and business wear to evening gowns, abayas, accessories etc (would love to see sportswear soon!)
- colourful, comfortable and quality fabrics
- polished finishes
- reasonable pricing

This is now my second order at Annah Hariri's store in Dubai, and I have to mention how helpful she has been, and what a truly wonderful and beautiful person she is - inside and out, mashaAllah!

I encourage you to check out her website and follow her on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

An Islamic art exhibition to get excited about (Downtown Dubai, UAE)

2014-06-21T04:03:00.002+04:00

Ripple by Siddiqa Juma

I am announcing with great pleasure (and excitement) the upcoming 'Downtown Ramadan' exhibition, to be held at 'The Gallery' at Emaar Pavilion and 'Downtown' with 27 inspiring artworks from the London-based Islamic art gallery Ahlan Art Gallery.

The handpicked selection by Emaar, in collaboration with art curators, includes a variety of styles and methods such as Arabic calligraphy, photography, watercolour and acrylic paintings, mixed media, showcasing verses of the Holy Quran, names and attributes of Allah, Mosques, Islamic culture and much more.

Hassan Mawji, founder of Ahlan Art gallery said: 'We're honoured to be working with Emaar Properties to showcase our Islamic Art gallery in the heart of Dubai. Founded in London, Ahlan Art gallery are at the forefront of creating a new narrative for Islamic Art by bringing to surface a diverse range of international artists and artwork.'

Eight talented artists of different nationalities (British, East African, Lebanon, Pakistan, Indian, Syrian) and backgrounds (reverts and born-Muslims) are part of this exhibition, including: George H Lewis, Siddiqa Juma, Peter Gould, Richard Mac Leod, Salva Rasool, Maaida Noor, Samir Malik and Aadil Abedi.

This exciting mix of artists gives the exhibition a rich palette of genres which I am so excited to see.

Venue:

- ‘Downtown’ Ramadan Tent (you may also enjoy Iftar/Suhour with a breathtaking view of Burj Khalifa)
Sunday –Wednesday : 6pm to 2am
Thursday – Saturday : 6pm to 3am
- ‘The Gallery' at Emaar Pavilion, Downtown Dubai
Saturday –Thursday : 9am to 6pm

Dates:

first day of Ramadan until August 31st

InshaAllah, will post some interviews very soon.. stay tuned!

New Muslim Summit guide (Dubai, UAE)

2014-01-11T09:30:00.000+04:00

On January 16 & 17, an event just for us reverts -at last!- will welcome renowned international speakers with multiple themes, lectures, workshops, Q&A sessions, one-on-one's and more.

The New Muslim Summit, held at The Cultural and Scientific Centre sounds like pure awesomeness. Ladies, here's what to look out for!

As one of the seminar speakers puts it, Mohammed Tim Humble, “one of the biggest problems we have in the Ummah (Muslim community) is that we are excellent at selling the religion; we’re great salesmen…What we’re really, really rubbish at is keeping them in Islam once they become Muslim.”

Myself and other 'new Muslim' friends of mine have gone through this somewhat confusing phase. God knows how grateful I am for having had a trustworthy person to guide me in my first steps. This is why I am really excited to have an event like this in the UAE, which will welcome scholars like us, for us and who have gone through the same unique challenges.

Workshops for women include:

- Seed Crystals: Leadership Training for Women in Da'wah with Hunada Kanbar

- One-on-One Counselling for ladies with Dr. Aisha Utz

- Priorities of Women in Da’wah with Dr. Aisha Utz

Breakout sessions for New Muslims:

- What Next? Now that I am a Muslim

- The Bare Essentials: What Every Muslim Needs to Know

- Submission, Striving, Salvation: the Essence of the Muslim Life

- Constellations: Finding Your Niche in the Ummah

- Legal Counsel for New Muslims with lawyer Mohammed Marria and a representative from the Dubai Courts

- Dealing with New Muslims: Rulings and Conduct

- The Forerunners: Muhammad and his Companions as New Muslims

Best part is, non-Muslims are welcome (with Q&A sessions just for them) and of course our sisters & brothers born into the faith - we can all benefit inshallah!

Don't forget to register online (for free) - to do so, click here.

For more details, follow Kalemah on Facebook and Twitter on @KALEMAHUAE #NMSdxb

See you there!

Get your physio-spiritual mojo on!

2014-01-09T20:27:00.000+04:00

Today, a long overdue post on one of my fave Islamic products.. ever! Far from your everyday rug.. Timez5 is the world's first physiological and most innovative prayer mat!

As I watched a TV show reviewing the product, I quickly contacted him to review the product.. and try it for myself!
I started using Timez5 right away, after spending some time admiring the packaging (what can I do, I'm a marketeer!). But most of all, I loved its slipcover to protect and hang the mat in your closet. Alternatively you can choose to roll it up like a yoga mat.
My first thoughts: "How will I ever go back to my regular prayer mat?!" and "I need one of these!". Although it is said the target audience is for those with joint pains, it can also be used for the 5 reasons below:

He was very friendly and agreed to it. I remember hearing the doorbell ring for delivery the second I finished performing wudhu (ablution ritual before prayers) right in time for prayer, subhan Allah!

Its pale colors are inviting and I couldn't wait to pray.

As Timez5 founder and CEO Nader Sabry puts it, "while researching the practice of prayer I discovered that our physical prostrations have many benefits beyond the spiritual, connected to our health and wellbeing, a common link with other faiths. However, these benefits were beyond the reach of many due to health issues created by our sedentary lifestyles (...)."

Pros

- More focused, better performance during prayer - it will improve your ibadah (worship)!

- Award-winning product

- Physical relief: muscle pain or stiffness, joint aches, being overweight or pregant

- Improves posture support and inflexibility

- Anti-slip base

- 1-year manufacturing warranty

- Countless amazing little things that make a huge difference, see video below!

Cons

- You might want to take a nap on it after prayer. Yes, it's that comfortable!

- 270$ + shipping (direct door-to-door delivery internationally).. can you swing it? But makes an unforgettable gift, investment and experience! (order here)

- The experience of stepping onto the mat is one of floating which can be disconcerting for the first time

You've been warned.. you will fall in LOVE with it!

Feel free to to follow Timez5 on Facebook, Twitter @TIMEZ5 and YouTube.

Website : www.timez5.com

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi, UAE)

2013-11-08T19:48:00.003+04:00

A week before Rihanna's controversial visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, I decided to do some sight-seeing and finally drove to Abu Dhabi's most talked-about landmark.

Recently ranked by the world’s largest travel community TripAdvisor as among the world’s Top 25 landmark attractions, I had always been sceptic to visit after hearing about the opulence of the site.

Instead, I was stunned by the Mosque's beauty and serenity upon my arrival.

I directly asked for a 'walk-in' group tour with a guide, which lasted around twenty minutes as he explained the meaning behind the Masjid's minarets, design, architecture and the principles of Islam. I learned a lot of interesting facts, such as:

* Combining Mamluk, Ottoman and Fatimid styles, the design of the minarets fuse the wide and diverse Islamic world into one summation of art and beauty.

* There are 82 domes of various sizes.

* The main prayer hall houses the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. Its creation was a two-year project, hand-crafted by approximately 1,200 artisans.

* Lunar illumination at night: a unique lightning system designed to reflect the phases of the moon.

The most striking feature was the backlit Qiblah wall adorned with Allah's 99 names and attributes.

I continued the tour by myself, as I found my way to what has got to be one of the world's cleanest and largest ablution rooms ; I followed by praying Maghrib in the spacious ladies' section.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was a dream in the heart of the country's beloved Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan (1918-2004), the first President of the UAE and ruler of Abu Dhabi, whose grave is within the premises.

He once said: "Since God bestows His graces on us providing us with wealth, it is our role to use this wealth for the benefit and prosperity of our people as an expression of gratitude to our Lord."

"Muslims of the World": Lujayne's answer

2013-09-17T22:31:00.004+04:00

Muslims of the World is a brand new Facebook page, dedicated towards taking a photographic census of Muslims around the world. The concept is to read their short answers on one simple, yet meaningful question.

The question I was asked was ""What are you grateful for, and why?"

And my answer:

"Alhamdulillah, as a French convert I am grateful for my parents to have both embraced Islam. I feel like this is the deepest, strongest connection and support I could ever ask for.
I witnessed my own mother's shahadah (declaration of faith) two years ago and both my parents witnessed mine. These moments are forever carved in my memory."

What are you grateful for?

Best Ramadan ads & reminder..

2013-08-20T08:00:00.000+04:00

I work in the field of marketing & PR and I just love the creativity of advertising masterminds.. especially when it comes to Islamic marketing!

Prophet Mohammed (Peace be Upon Him) taught us about business ethics and how false advertising - making incorrect claims about the product we want to sell - hurts the business. Even if it appears to be increasing sales, it is damaging in the long-run.

“Avoid swearing falsely in order to sell your goods. Apparently it appears to be promoting your business, but in fact it lets your business down and damages the goodwill of your business.” [Muslim]

I have selected a few Ramadan ads that I personally like.. I'll let pictures speak for themselves. Which one is your favorite?

Feeling disconnected? The post-Ramadan syndrome

2013-08-15T23:59:00.003+04:00

Eid was a week ago.. and life is back in full swing.

My Muslim colleagues laugh about their nights out drinking, go back on their cigarette breaks, bars are back in business in the Middle East and the dress code is considerably 'shorter' and well, barer.

Tonight, an acquaintance even told me she wishes she knew I was a Muslim earlier, as she likes to hang out with Muslims during the Holy Month. I asked, what about the rest of the year???

Feeling low?

Meanwhile, many other Muslims are still desperately trying to hang on to the blissful spirit of Ramadan. Some are still fasting to make up for missed days or for the 6 days of Shawwal (10th month in the Islamic calendar) that are not mandatory.
It is said that “Whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days from Shawwal it is as if they fasted the entire year.”

[Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, and Ibn Majah; Ahmad transmitted it from Jabir, Muntaqa]

On the other hand, some may experience the post-Ramadan syndrome and perhaps feeling blue or disconnected from reality: as if Ramadan was a distant dream and they are not ready to get back to the harsh reality.

So what happens after we are done fasting? What do we do with the good habits we picked up during Ramadan? Do we throw them out the window?

Advices & tips from fellow Muslims

1) Ask yourself : what goal(s) did I achieve and which habit do I want to keep up?
ie. praying 5 times a day, waking up for fajr, dressing conservatively, reading the Quran etc
Make a realistic list and decide what is achievable.

2) Let's ask God to guide us and to keep us on the straight path and to make it easy for us (Ameen)

3) Continue to read the Quran and to educate ourselves on a regular basis

4) Stay in touch with friends who invited us for iftar, who we met at Taraweh prayers, who we can talk about our faith and are a good influence on our spiritual quest.

5) Stay fit and healthy.. because it makes us happy!

ProductiveMuslim.com give great tips in the following video:

Addtionally, sisters may tune in online on Sunday, August 18th at 7.15pm (GMT+4) as Al Huda Sisters will give a talk on "Firmness after Ramadan". More details here.

رَبَّنَا لَا تُزِغْ قُلُوبَنَا بَعْدَ إِذْ هَدَيْتَنَا وَهَبْ لَنَا مِن لَّدُنكَ رَحْمَةً ۚ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ الْوَهَّابُ
”Our Lord, let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower "(3:8)

Inspring Muslims Series: George 'Ibrahim' Green (New York, USA)

2013-08-08T15:57:00.000+04:00

Ibrahim, you and I go way back. When we first met, you were on tour with Kanye West & Black Violin as I was promoting the concert in Dubai, UAE. Few years later, we both were on the same tour in South Africa with Akon, Fat Joe and Black Violin and would occasionally meet up whenever I visited NYC. I remember you taking me to Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial Center ; this was an incredible experience for me (I highly recommend visiting it).

It was a HUGE surprise to me when a year later, I found out you became my Muslim brother.. I feel so blessed to have witnessed your spiritual journey to Islam. Allahu Akbar!

I will focus on your new life as a Muslim, however our readers can listen to your recent interview on your background and the music industry on Saudi radio channel MIX FM here.

Can you tell us about yourself?

I am from Harlem New York in New York City. My religious work background consists of giving dawah globally to Muslims and Non-Muslims, motivating the youth through my own journey. My religious work also consists of working with non-profit organization Muslims Giving Back and the Canadian Dawah Association (CDA).

Embracing Islam is obviously a long-term result of many years of soul-searching, but can you tell us what inspired you the most in your decision?

I would have to say the beauty in the Adhan (call to Prayer) is what initially sparked my interest in Islam.

After watching Muslims make Salaat (prayer) I was moved. I was humbled by a person bowing with head and nose to the ground - realizing in the physical form this is the lowest point a person can go to humble himself.

How has Islam changed you? Has it made you a better person?

Islam has given me balance, structure and discipline. Islam has increased my Iman (faith). Islam has made me a true believer in Allah as well as given me Taqwa (high state of heart). Islam taught me values, respect for humanity and respect for women. Islam brought me back to a winning relationship with my mother.

Many converts experience some difficulty telling their family and friends. In fact, some never do tell. Was your family supportive? Any advice on how to approach loved ones?

My family was completely shocked and not supportive. My family was under the impression that accepting Islam would be a short-lived statement. My family's Christian views on Islam are seriously smeared. My grandmother accepted my decision first. Next, my brother welcomed me and my mother. After this it began to just be unspoken about.
Not sure of what advice I can give but brace yourself because you will have rejection due to the ignorance. I almost feel like it comes with the territory of being a revert. Have to stand strong and firm on your decision.

How were you able to visit Mecca so soon after your conversion?

Things started from brother Eddie from The Deen Show who extended an invitation for me to share my story on his show. I accepted and over 100,000 people tuned in (watch here).

Next, Sheikh Shazaad Muhammad from CDA watched the show and reached out, inspired by my story and feeling I could make a positive change from it.

I was then extended an invitation to perform the Umrah (pilgrimage to Mecca).

In what ways are you involved with CDA today?

I am now an Ambassador for the CDA. I contribute with bringing public figures to the Kingdon of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for cultural experiences in hopes of getting the people of influence to accept Islam and change their perceptions of Islam through their influence.

You are really active in Da'wah masha'Allah ; may it be in the streets of NYC, travelling the world for lectures, being involved in"Muslims Giving Back".

How did you get into this and what are your upcoming plans this year?

Yes, I am very active in Da'wah.

I was introduced to this initiative by my dear brother Abdul Jamil who's an active member.

Once introduced, I have been contributing with making strong efforts to change misconceptions of Islam by my actions as well as commitment. We do so by strengthening our Da'wah with positive images of Muslims in effort to help humanity and our Ummah (Muslim community).

I am also very active with CDA. I was contacted by the organization upon my first year of accepting Islam. I do motivational speaking and lectures on my story of how I accepted Islam and give Da'wah globally through them.

Finally, I am very active with New Future Foundation which is also a non-profit organization that works closely with the United Nations. I work with urban youth and inner city youth to help create opportunities for the students to receive cultural experiences, by taking them to Africa to experience Gore Island slave quarters from the Atlantic slave trade.

Anything else you would like to share with our readers?

My advice for Muslims is to become stronger within the Ummah.

Muslims should consider spending more time giving Da'wah to non-Muslims vs Muslims. We need to change their misconceptions.

Too many of us Muslims only give Da'wah to Muslims, which is always good but the non-Muslims are those whose misconceptions need to be changed.

Feel free to to follow our brother Ibrahim Khalil on Facebook, Instagram at Georgegreenjourney, Twitter @iamgeorgegreen.

Website : www.iamgeorgegreen.com

Watch his latest video interview with WNYMuslims on Music & Fame here.

Photos courtesy of George Green.

Superheroes: Prophet-inspired?

2013-08-04T21:26:00.001+04:00

People are fans of famous singers, sports players, actors, socialites, models and other celebrities.. I can't help but wonder: how do they all really contribute to our society?
Superheroes also have a strong following of their own and I couldn't help but to notice similarities in their man-made nature with... the Messengers of God (Peace Be Upon Them). And my question is, why aren't our Prophets our real Superheroes??

Superman vs Moses (PBUH)

In 1938 started to emerge a wave of superhero characters from America with the likes of Superman, Batman, Wonderwoman, Hulk and many more. Their appearance is flawless and their super powers make them stronger than humans while they deal with all aspects of society, including personal, social and political abuse - like hot, current topics of drug and alcohol abuse, terrorism etc.

Hope is what brought about comic strips back in the 1930's, also known as the Great Depression in the USA. Now listen to this.

Two young Jewish New Yorkers named Jerry Siegel (writer) and Joe Shuster (illustrator) decided to create their own hero - Superman, whose story is strangely similar to the one of Moses (Peace Be Upon Him) :

- Their childhood : both were sent away from home by their parents and forced to undergo an exodus from their people (Hebrews/Kryptonians) due to their threats against their lives, and then get adopted by people who are very different from themselves (Egyptian royalty/rural Kansans).

- Meaning of Superman's birth name : Kal-El, his Kryptonian name, can be translated as "Voice of God" in Hebrew.

- Talmudic values and principles.

The 99 vs Allah's Names & Attributes

The 99 is the brainchild of Naif Al-Mutawa whose idea was to create a group of superheroes enforced by the 99 Names & Attributes of God which are found throughout the Quran, in a comic book inspired by Islam.

Widad the Loving, Bari The Healer, Jaleel The Majestic, Mujiba The Responder..
Those are a few characters from the new generation of comic book heroes who not only fight crime like others, but they smash stereotypes, battle extremism and reinforce positive messages of Islam.

Justice League adopt Teshkeel Comics heroes

Since its inception, The 99 have witnessed unprecedented success ; Obama gave the superheroes a shout out, 26 animated TV series are reaching completion and a theme park is in the making.

Last but not least, The 99 team partnered with DC Comics' Justice League standing cape to shoulder with the likes of Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman to defeat the friend of evil.
What brought these characters of different worlds together is, no doubt, their virtues and values which are found across Abrahamic religions.

I personally think that having these role-models, inspired by such, are a great influence on our younger genereation.
I remember the Sheikh whom I professed my faith, or Shahada, with saying ; "Teenagers put posters of Britney Spears, boy bands, actors etc up on their walls.. to me God's Prophets and Messengers (PBUT) are our superheroes and I try to be like them".

Sources:
Jewish Virtual Library
Ted.com speaker profile on Naif Al Mutawa
Twitter: @DrNaif

Iftar meals distribution (Dubai, UAE)

2013-08-02T19:21:00.002+04:00

For the second year, DU joined forces with Emirati-run social media PR agency Think Up to distribute iftar meals daily in the UAE as part of their Mawaed Al Rahman campaign for the Holy month of Ramadan.

Think Up gathered hundreds of volunteers to pack meal boxes with hot biryani, water, laban, dates and a fruit, and to distribute them to the less fortunate.
In total, 134,000 meals were handed out throughout the entire month across four prime locations in the UAE. Needless to say, this was done under hot weather conditions as the summer months in Dubai can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius.

When I interviewed Alia Al Ateeq, Head of Corporate Social Responsabilities, she humbly expressed that this campaign was "a wonderful opportunity for them and for volunteers to return something small to the UAE and to the community".

Here is a short video interview of some of the Think Up volunteers and their thoughts on the experience :

As God's messenger Mohammed (PBUH) said, "the most excellent voluntary charity, or sadaqah, consists in your satisfying the hungry stomach". (Al Tirmidhi #1946).

What campaign and cause did you join this Ramadan?

Introducing the "Suhoothie" recipe - Smoothie for Suhoor

2013-07-31T00:00:00.000+04:00

My first Ramadan back in 2002 was a fun, exciting and highly spiritual experience I will always remember with a smile ; falling asleep on the prayer mat during fajr morning prayer (that's if I heard the alarm), somehow learning Arabic verses with the wrong pronounciation, breaking my fast with Diet Coke and chocolate (that was another year when I piled on the pounds), feeling lost during Taraweh, sleeping all day etc...

I also remember the incredible feeling after completing a full day of fasting and all five prayers for the first time. I was on top of the world and I felt full of radiance and light!

Over the years, I have worked hard on figuring out what works best for my health and diet during Ramadan. Year after year, I welcome Ramadan as a much-needed purification for the soul, mind and body.

This month, I developed and perfected my smoothie recipe that I whip up for the morning meal suhoor :
1) it is filling (but not heavy on the stomach) and provides the necessary nutritional values you'll need in the morning
2) it keeps you hydrated,
3) it contains vitamins, oils and fat (the good kind) that are essential to our well-being
4) the whey powder gives me the protein I need as a vegetarian, but also reduces hunger and improves the immune system

Basically, it boosts your energy for the rest of the day and brings countless health benefits to your body. I call it the "SUHOOTHIE"!

Banana & Strawberry Suhoothie Recipe

Blend together the following ingredients for 1 minute:
- 1 cup of almond milk (or coconut, hazelnut, rice-vanilla as you wish - it's even better if you alternate every day)
- 2 bananas
- a handful of strawberries (or blueberries, or both)
- a handful of freshly-grated coconut
- 1 tbsp of plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp of honey
- 1 tbsp of whey protein powder
- a pinch of cinnamon

I sometimes add a cup of quick-cooking oats to add fiber and for a thicker texture.

Divide between two tall glasses and serve. Enjoy and it's time to pray fajr!

Interfaith Friendships : can we learn from one another?

2013-07-30T17:40:00.000+04:00

A belated Ramadan Kareem to y'all!

This month, Good Taste magazine asked me to answer a few questions as a Muslim convert together with a friend of my choice from a different faith. The magazine's summer issue focuses on the Holy month of Ramadan, in which they raise an interesting topic of "Interfaith Relationships".

This made me wonder why it is hardly talked about, as Islam actually encourages interfaith harmony.

I chose my friend Amanda who is an Australian Christian Catholic (as I was before I embraced Islam) woman who has been studying religions for many years.

The questions were a lot more extensive than what is now published.
However, answering them allowed Amanda and I to realize how precious our friendship is and how much we learn from one another. We felt overwhelmed with gratefulness at how blessed we are to have such a friendship in our lives, which is based on this strong foundation of mutual acceptance and sharing of our knowledge.

Personally, this allows me to remember what our Abrahamic religions share and have in common. It reminds me that Christianity guided me and led me to Islam as a continuation of God's message to spread monotheism.

Do you have a similar friend in your life? What is your opinion on interfaith friendships? Do you think they will weaken or strengthen your own faith?

For more information on the annual "Muslim-Christian Dialogue" event mentioned in the article above and held at the Knowledge Village auditorium in Dubai Media City, click here.

Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding website

Special thanks to Saadiya Ahmed for this interview opportunity.

Muslim community in Toronto & Mississauga (Ontario, Canada)

2011-09-12T18:20:00.000+04:00

Salaam!

After spending 2 months in Toronto, Ontario, I am reflecting on my experience as a revert Muslim fasting in Canada during Ramadan.

Some time in mid-July, while on vacation, I received a phone call from work to visit Toronto for only 5 days on business, after which I would resume my vacation back home with family and then return back to Dubai (where I reside). I had my Ramadan all figured out and planned in Dubai : volunteering, taraweeh prayers at my usual Ramadan masjid with friends, iftar invitations, spiritual talks etc.
Once again, I was reminded by Allah azza wa jal that no matter how much planning we do, we have no control of what is destined for us, subhanAllah.

The 5 days turned into 2 months of intense work, with a busy schedule from morning till night. I was at first seized with panic at the thought of not being able to achieve as much as I'd hoped during Ramadan. Although it was a very different Holy Month of Ramadan for me, I feel I've learnt so much and experienced incredible things with amazing accounters.

I quickly researched all masjids and Islamic centers. A dear sister of mine from Al Huda Sisters group in Dubai was very helpful and recommended the Al Huda Insitute in Mississauga, as well as asked her friends there to look after me. I couldnt believe the warm welcome I received from total strangers! I was chuffed and still am to witness with my own eyes the bond and comfort of our Muslim community and Ummah worldwide.

Here is a short list that could be helfpul to you, on your visit to Toronto :

- Toronto Masjid (168 Dundas Street W, Downtown Toronto)

Toronto Masjid

This Masjid is situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, making it very convenient to access and pop in between meetings.
They offer three khutbah Friday prayers/sermons one after the other mashaAllah! There is a separate prayer hall for women upstairs.
There is enough parking space at the back (make sure you put enough coins to avoid getting a ticket), right at the metro exit, therefore is very accessible. The street has many Arabic restaurants such as Ali Baba (try their falafel sandwich!), hennah and beauty salons etc.
For more info and Toronto prayer times, visit http://www.masjidtoronto.com/

- Al Huda Institute (5671 McAdam Road, Mississauga)
This institute has it all masha'Allah! From classrooms for men and women, to a book store (with some of their own publications that I recommend), library, prayer hall, reception area for questions and guidance, activities for kids and families, etc!
I personally loved the one-coloured hijab touch for the volunteers to easily spot who they are! They are all very welcoming and super friendly.
They do things 100%, with great organization and even itikaaf cublicles during Ramadan, taraweeh (there is a pause halfway through with explanation of juz in English language) and qiyam night prayers.
It is only a 20-30mn drive from Toronto and there is plenty of parking space.
For more info, visit http://www.alhudainstitute.ca/

- ISNA masjid (2200 South Sherida Way, Mississauga)
ISNA stands for Islamic Society of North America, and their Islamic center is fantastic. It has a school, basketball courts, library, beautiful mixed prayer hall where women pray at the back (that was a first for me!), fresh food is sold there as well.
I strongly recommend attending their khutbah Friday prayers with great sermons in English language.
The parking is limited and the exit traffic very congested. Patience is a must!
For more info, visit http://www.isnacanada.com/

- Islamic Information & Dawah Center International (1168 Bloor Street West, Toronto)
Very friendly, informative and helpful brothers here on Bloor Street West, with a library and pamphlets. Check out their Facebook page here : http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ghurabaa-Dawah-Group/185274551516156?sk=info
Map + Public transport details

- Muslim Association of Canada (MAC)
I saw lots of flyers for their Eid Al-Fitr celebration they organized in the streets of Toronto : the "Eid Festival" with a carnival 11am - 6pm, with a bazaar! I was sad to miss it! Love the idea though :)

- Flea market, Mississauga
If you are in Mississauga and need to buy supplies of any type, I strongly suggest their flea market! From clothes, to fruits and vegetables from their farmers market, and Islamic products such as prayers rugs, hijabs, etc.

- Hennah tattoos, Etobicoke
I got my hennah done for Eid, subhanAllah, by a very talented and very kind sister Nusrat Malik.
Feel free to give her a call on Lujayne's behalf!
Phone number : (647) 997-6786

For location map, rates and more info, click here.

There are many, many other mosques, Dawah and Islamic centers in Toronto, some of which I've been to, seen or not, but the list above is my personal favorites.
I've been to them many times during my stay so I feel comfortable to strongly recommend them to you!

Looking back, alhamdulillah I feel blessed to have lived this very unusual Ramadan experience and I can tell you that you will not feel lonely in Toronto. May Allah accept our deeds and accept our efforts made during Ramadan, I wish you a belated Eid!
Our Ummah will be taking care of you there inshaAllah!

Thank you to all the wonderful sisters and brothers that made my stay pleasurable, may Allah reward you abundantly! Jazak Allah khair and God bless you!

Al Huda Sisters group : A New Beginning (Dubai, UAE)

2011-06-19T16:39:00.010+04:00

My first post is dedicated to the al Huda Sisters group and now 'markaz', or (Islamic) center, located in Dubai, UAE.

'Al Huda' is the Arabic word for 'guidance' and truly every student, including my

self, has a unique, touching story as to how they found the group and joined.

In my case, back in 2007, I had just graduated from university in France, my home country, and moved on my own to Dubai (U.A.E.) at the age of 23, to start my career.

You see, I had already embraced Islam for some time, but back there I was isolated from the Muslim community (the mosque was not in a safe neighborhood).

When I moved to Dubai, the first thing I wanted, was to find another revert like myself! After years of isolation in France I started thinking there were no others!

A month after my arrival, I was grocery shopping one evening and I was stoked when I saw a white, blue-eyed girl, wearing hijab. After a long hesitation, I went up to her - guess where she was headed that night? To Eman alObaidi's home - and it was a stepping stone in my journey of faith.

Who is Eman alObaidi?

She is the co-founder and teacher of what is today a woman's Islamic Center called the "AlHuda Sisters" Markaz, located in Umm Suqeim in Dubai (UAE).

It started off with a friend, then later developed to a small group, which became larger, friends brought their friends, who brought their own - there are now 250 students, classes every day and women abroad (Brazil, USA, Malaysia, Egypt, etc) from all around the world, can now listen to them live, online.

Why are the classes so popular?

Because it all started with good intentions to seek knowledge in Islam and to please Allah. And Allah guides the one who wants to get closer to Him.

Along the way, there were difficulties finding a permanent venue to teach at, we moved from mosque to mosque, spent two years at the Ladies Club, but after answering to every test with patience, on May 9th, 2011, we were gifted with an invaluable blessing : a beautiful villa close to the beach, near a mosque, with a library, classrooms fitted with livefeed on flat screen TV's, a prayer room and playroom for kids.

So, long live to the new Al Huda Sisters Markaz!
Not only I made a new friend in the supermarket but since then I am blessed with many others, who I have learned to love for the sake of Allah. I hope to see many of you join!

وَإِن تَعُدُّوا نِعْمَتَ اللَّهِ لَا تُحْصُوهَا

“…and if you count the Blessings of Allah, never will you be able to count them.” (14:34)

www.alhudasisters.wordpress.com (with map)
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/pages/AlHuda-Sisters/97373959035?sk=info

Twitter : @AlHudaSisters
For more details, please email alhuda.sisters@gmail.com or call +971 (0)50 585 62 14