By: yusufibrahimkamara@hopemediasl.com
The Youth Wing of the Wellington Muslims Association (WMA) successfully organized its Annual Iftar Ceremony on 14 March 2026 at the Association’s Conference Hall, bringing together members of the Muslim community in a spirit of reflection, unity, and collective celebration during the holy month of Ramadan.
The event, held under the stewardship of the Youth Wing leadership, aimed to strengthen cohesion among young members, reinforce Islamic values and traditions, and provide a platform for mentorship and leadership development within the community. The gathering attracted youth leaders, senior members of the Mission, religious scholars, and other stakeholders committed to the growth of the association.
The ceremony was ably chaired by Abdul Razar Kamara, who served as the Master of Ceremony. As Principal and Secretary General of the Wellington Muslims Association Senior Secondary School and the Mission, he carefully guided the proceedings, ensuring a smooth flow of activities and maintaining a reflective and spiritually uplifting atmosphere throughout the program. His leadership in coordinating the event was widely commended by participants, as he seamlessly introduced speakers and facilitated engagement among attendees.
Delivering the opening address, Youth Wing Chairman Santigie Silman Kargbo emphasized the importance of gratitude, collaboration, and unity in community leadership. He expressed appreciation to community leaders, particularly his predecessor, Abu Bakarr Kamara, for their mentorship and support in grooming emerging leaders. Chairman Kargbo described the Iftar as a strategic initiative aimed at fostering togetherness among members during Ramadan and encouraged sustained participation in programs that strengthen the association and promote communal harmony.
Speaking on behalf of the President of the Mission, Vice President Osman T. Kamara highlighted the importance of commitment and dedication in sustaining youth-led initiatives. He noted that while not all young people may be able to contribute actively, those who are committed must continue to support and invest in the growth and sustainability of the union. Kamara further urged participants to pay close attention to the educational lectures delivered during the program, stressing their relevance in shaping future leadership and community service.
Religious guidance formed a central pillar of the ceremony, with Deputy Grand Chief Imam of the Mission, Sheik Haround S. Mansaray, addressing attendees on the spiritual and communal significance of Ramadan. He described the Iftar as a platform for inclusivity, bringing together individuals from different tribal and religious backgrounds in accordance with Islamic teachings. He also reaffirmed the Sunnah of breaking fast collectively, as practiced by the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Sheik Mansaray encouraged youth members to emulate the dedication of their predecessors and remain steadfast in supporting the association’s initiatives throughout the year.
Similarly, Sheik Alfred Kargbo expressed gratitude to Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) for guiding the Muslim community and blessing them with the teachings of Islam. He commended the Youth Wing leadership for promoting unity and religious observance and emphasized the need for deeper understanding of Islamic values. He urged youth members to participate actively in community programs and maintain unity across tribal and religious lines, noting that Ramadan serves as a period for reflection, worship, and collective action aimed at societal development.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by former Youth Wing Chairman, Abu Bakarr Kamara. In his remarks, he reflected on the progress achieved during his tenure and expressed pride in witnessing the continuity of initiatives he had championed. He praised the current executive for their commitment in organizing what he described as an outstanding and impactful Iftar gathering, reiterating his longstanding vision of using such programs as platforms to inspire youth engagement and strengthen the association’s developmental agenda.
Overall, the Annual Iftar Ceremony served as a powerful demonstration of collaboration, mentorship, and devotion among members of the Wellington Muslims Association. The event reaffirmed the transformative power of unity in Islam and underscored the importance of nurturing a new generation of leaders committed not only to faith but also to community development and social cohesion.