An evening of unity and reflection brought together people of all backgrounds.
Beechwood School in Britwell, Slough hosted its third annual Community Ramadan Iftar, celebrating the spirit of togetherness during the holy month.
The event was attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Slough, Councillor Siobhan Dauti and Julie Siddiqi, alongside students, families, community leaders, and faith representatives.
Ms Siddiqi, who also hosted the evening, said: "This evening is another important step in Britwell, bringing together our school community at such an important time for our local Muslim communities and bringing people from all backgrounds together to eat and meet and share time together.
Read more
Teenager arrested after Slough college was placed in lockdown due to police incident
Teenager died at prestigious college that was once attended by Royals
College staff set to walk out again as part of ongoing dispute over pay
"We are seeing a rise in hate in our country and around the world, this Iftar felt like a positive push back and a reclaiming of hope over hate and connection over division."
The evening featured speeches from Cllr Dauti, Cllr Dexter Smitth, Slough MP Tan Dhesi, and headteacher Anita Spires.
Samina Hussain, founder of Sakoon Through Cancer, said: "Beechwood School is a community secondary school where connection truly comes to life.
"This Community Iftar was a beautiful testimony of connection, authenticity, and kindness.
"People from different backgrounds came together to share food, conversation, and reflection reminding us that when communities gather with open hearts, we create spaces of understanding, belonging, and unity."
Revd Naomi Hill of St George’s Church took part in a panel discussion alongside three Muslim students who spoke about the meaning of Ramadan.
Revd Hill, attending her first Iftar, reflected on the overlap of Lent and Ramadan and emphasised the importance of unity, drawing on the teachings of Jesus to 'love God and love our neighbours'.
In her remarks, Cllr Dauti highlighted the importance of 'good people in our communities' standing up to hatred and praised the Iftar for fostering meaningful conversations and connections.
Ms Spires commended students for welcoming guests with kindness and openness.
She said the event was a reminder that 'we are all Britwell' and that the community must come together to support young people and their families.
Mr Dhesi spoke about the value of interfaith unity and condemned the rise in hate crimes against Muslims and people of other faiths.
The call to prayer was delivered by 19-year-old Aqif Hussain.
Attendees also included Sonia Khan, director of strategy and transformation at Slough Borough Council, and Angela Carr, CEO of Athena Angels.
Food was provided by AJ Cafe volunteers, Britwell’s Community Cafe, and through donations from parents, staff, and other supporters.
Share