Islamic Relief held an event in Kuwait to mark its 30th anniversary, celebrating decades of serving humanity.
The event, attended by more than 300 people, was a chance to share our work with others. It also celebrated our close partnership with Sheikh Abdullah Al-Nouri Charity Society.
Guests at the event, held in Salmiya on December 12, included Jamal Al-Nouri, chairman of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Nouri Charity Society; chief guest Shafique Shah, Lord Mayor of Birmingham; Mohammad Arif Butt, president of Pakistan Business Council Kuwait; Hafiz Mohammad Shabbir, a member of Overseas Pakistanis Advisory Council (OPAC); and Majid Ali Chawdhary, director of Pakistan National English School Hawally. We were joined by the Pakistani business community in Kuwait, supporters and volunteers.
Long-term work
Speeches were given by Islamic Relief’s CEO Dr Mohamed Ashmawey, Shafique Shah, Jamal Al-Nouri, Mohammad Arif Butt, Mr M. Aslam Khan, Pakistan’s ambassador to Kuwait, and Tom Shepherd, head of the British Embassy’s political section.
Lotfy El Sayed, manager of the Middle East Department at Islamic Relief, said: “The event was a huge success as it gave us the chance to engage with our supporters and share our story with people who had not worked with us in the past. The speeches focused on the growth of Islamic Relief over time, from its initial work responding to the famine in Sudan to its more recent emphasis on integrated development.
“The event was a warm and friendly evening, full of reflection and hope for the future. We are indebted to the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers and staff, who have enabled Islamic Relief to go from strength to strength.”
Speaking at the event, Muhammad Arif Butt said: “I have no words to describe the great work you do in Pakistan. We assure you that whenever you need our assistance we will work hand in hand with you.”
Majid Ali Chowdhary also attended. He said: “I have known the work of Islamic Relief for the past two years and am fully confident in their worldwide activities but especially in their work for the people in our home country of Pakistan.”
Hafiz Mohammad Shabbir added: “Islamic Relief has made colossal efforts in investing every dime and nickel across the globe for humanity.”
The Sheikh Abdullah Al-Nouri Charity Society is a long-term supporter of Islamic Relief. Projects funded in 2014 include a rainwater harvesting project in China, humanitarian relief for flood-affected people in Bosnia and food parcels to war-affected people in Gaza. This year alone, the organisation has funded support for more than 7000 internally-displaced people (IDPs) in Syria.
Islamic Relief was founded in 1984. Our 30th anniversary celebrations will finish in early 2015.