Chamber members unite to celebrate Iftar

Over 70 members and guests of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce gathered to fast for a day during the Muslim month of Ramadan and celebrate Iftar, the nightly feast that breaks the fast.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.

Fasting from dawn to sunset is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are not acutely or chronically ill, travelling, elderly, breastfeeding, diabetic, or menstruating.

The event was hosted by Asian Business Chamber president Omar Rashid, Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber president Naeem Arif and Future Faces president Kasim Choudhry.

Members and guests were welcomed by Omar Rashid while Kasim Choudhry talked about the different aspects of fasting and the inspiration behind the event.

Naeem Arif invited all guests to focus for a moment in prayer, to remember those less fortune than us, especially around Birmingham who were struggling at the moment and also an end of war in the middle east.

Speaking about the event Naeem Arif said: “The event was a great example of a cross chamber event, where the business and social networking connections were made. Nearly a third of participants were non-Muslims, some of whom tried fasting for the day.

“The event allowed people to experience fasting, but also ask questions about what Muslims go through in a social environment.”

Omar Rashid said: “As ABCC President it was a proud moment to be able host such an event under the Chambers banner. Kudos to Kasim for setting up the Fast for a Day initiative and it was amazing to see people from various backgrounds, including non-Muslims open the fast side by side with Muslims.”

Kasim Choudhry said: “It was great to see many people turn up to the Iftar. The evening proved to be a good example of members and guests from different regions and walks of life coming in and celebrating together as one.”