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By: zaghra savahl  Have you thought about equipping yourself with more knowledge about Black History and the experience of black people in America? If so, look no further as we’re here to help you get started. We asked some of our team members about books they consider essential reading to gain a deeper understanding. Below are some of their suggestions: Recommended by Latifat Cabirou 1. Americanah (by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie)  "This is a fictional novel that tells the story of a young Nigerian immigrant living in the U.S. The author paints a vivid portrayal of the cultural experiences of Black immigrants in the U.S. as they navigate the racial, ethnic, and cultural landscapes of life in the U.S and negotiate different aspects of their identities. I think many African diasporans can identify with, and connect to different parts of the protagonists' experiences. It also allows non-diasporans to get a glimpse of the many challenges Black immigrants face as they try to make their place in their new world."
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By: Zaghra savahl When fashion model Halima Aden announced in November 2020 that she quit runway modelling, her reasons gave rise to some important discussions about Faith and the Fashion industry. The first Hijabi supermodel stated that many of the tasks that were required of her during her fashion career were incompatible with her Islamic Faith. At what point have you compromised too much of your Faith and what should you do when you`ve reached that crossroad?  The Fashion Industry is a global economic powerhouse with a variety of career pathways that include marketing, promotion, design, sales and many more. In Islam, many of these pathways are acceptable if they do not contradict any Islamic principles. There are also many areas in Fashion that are strictly prohibited as they involve doing work that is haram. It is for this reason that many Muslims have found themselves on a precipice when it comes to their Faith and knowing when to walk away when they feel they are compromising their values. Go back to the beginning. Who are you aiming to please?
Throughout Islamic history, there are many examples of Muslim women who owned businesses and thrived in their careers. The most famous example is that of Khadija (RA) – the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It is well-known that she was a successful businesswoman. Islamic principles are all about balance and moderation. Therefore, pursuing a career while being steadfast in your Faith is possible, providing it does not tilt to the extreme where certain aspects of your Faith become compromised. Muslims believe that if you do everything for the sake of Allah (SWT), the rest will take care of itself, including working towards a career you are passionate about. If you start and sustain your career with the intention of pleasing Allah (SWT) and you continue to place your Faith first and everything else secondary, the decisions you make will become clearer.
 There's an old saying that goes “the Pen is mightier than the sword”. What does this mean? Is there any relevance to this saying today? It is widely understood that this proverb relates to the power and influence of writing being more consequential than conflict or violence. With the devastating effects of the Coronavirus Pandemic, the destruction of wars and ongoing political tension and animosity, how do “mere words” have power over these realities? Communication Because of the pandemic, it’s difficult for many of us to speak to one another, especially for work. Many people have turned to emails and messaging apps to complete projects and share information. This is especially relevant in the working world because being able to write well is a skill that many employers still value, even if a position is not related to writing or editing. Employers want to make sure that the people working for them are going to properly represent their company, especially online. Social Media Initially created for the purpose of social networking, social media has become one of the most popular platforms to push political agendas. A Tweet or Facebook post of “mere words” has been the catalyst for social upheaval in many instances. Used for both good and bad, it is no doubt that words on social media have power over many realities. By: Gina Klaff  It's been more than a year since the Coronavirus was first identified and went on to become a global pandemic. Through the dark times, there has also been light in the form of many that have come together to strive for cure and healing. Many have asked Allah (SWT) through his infinite mercy to grant the sick Shifa. What does this word mean and what is its connection to illness. “We send down (stage by stage) in the Qur'an that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe; to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss Surah Al-Isra' Verse 82 The word Shifa translates directly to healing or cure. While there are Ayahs (verses) that contain the word Shifa (as in the example above), in essence, the entire Qur`an is a source of physical and spiritual healing for those who ponder upon its meaning. In Islam, we believe that all good and bad comes from Allah (SWT) for different reasons. When Allah (SWT) grants Shifa to people, it comes in different forms, some of which, as humans, we don`t understand. What we do know is that if it brings us closer to Allah (SWT) and brings out the good in us, then whether it was something we liked or disliked, it was in the form of a blessing.
By: Zaghra Savahl  What is it about journaling that has caused it to stand the test of time? What benefits does it provide? For anyone that's ever seen the movies The Notebook or Bridget Jones` Diary, you will know how integral journaling is to those stories. Much like real-life, journaling provides stability to centre your emotions, your psyche, and ultimately your sense of self. The year 2020 has been tumultuous – to say the least – and 2021 just cranked up the turmoil. Many people have been practicing social distancing due to the pandemic, and they have found themselves in isolation, which can get lonely…very lonely. Adding on to the weight of the world's problems, being too much in your own thoughts for extended periods of time can have a negative effect on your health and your overall well being. It's safe to say that an outlet is needed. For many years, an outlet that has been highly recommended is journaling. Journaling is the practice of recording your thoughts, often in the form of a notebook, which has many benefits. This tool and practice is not only needed, but it is essential. “By the time I got to junior high, I started to have emotional drama with hormones and puberty so that’s when it became a catharsis for me. I got a clear sense that I wanted to pour my heart out, have that emotional outlet and find emotional balance. I learned very quickly that I could soothe myself with my writing by telling myself my deepest secrets, concerns, and fears, and then give myself comfort -Mark Matousek interview with Kathleen Adams, Journal to the self, 2014 With the daily pressures of life and the stress that it brings, journaling can be that source of comfort that you need, through both the highs and the lows. Let's take a look at how it can be of benefit to you.  By: Michelle Cabanas  Sabr- to be patient, persistent, and persevering. As Muslims, through the Qur’an and Sunnah, we are taught the importance of being patient and having perseverance, even in moments of adversity. What better time to utilize these skills than during a global pandemic. Despite the chaos, turmoil, and uncertainty going on in the world today, remaining calm, having faith, and continuing to be strong is crucial. During difficult times, having sabr is key to overcoming hardships.
How will someone accomplish anything without perseverance? It’s not easy to persevere and stay patient, but with practice, embracing the true meaning of sabr, can become second nature. With all that is going on, remembering to persevere can be difficult for most. |
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