Solihull College & University Centre extends heartfelt Eid greetings to all staff, students, and the wider community. As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, the College acknowledges the unwavering dedication and resilience demonstrated by its staff and students, who have continued to work with commitment while observing their fasts.
This year, the College was proud to host a special Iftar dinner, bringing together nearly 90 staff members, both Muslim and non-Muslim. for an evening of unity, reflection, and shared experience. The catering team, who worked tirelessly to prepare and serve an exceptional meal, also ensured that fasting staff who were unable to attend received takeaway packs to break their fast at home.
Faizah Azeem, co-organiser of the event, expressed her gratitude for the efforts of the catering team: “The team truly went above and beyond, and I’m deeply thankful for their hard work. The Iftar dinner is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of unity and understanding. By sharing this meal, the College strengthens its community bonds, turning it into more than just an institution.”
Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Shahin Ashraf MBE, joined the Iftar dinner at Solihull College & University Centre.
Grace Wynne Willson, also a co-organiser, added: “It was inspiring to see so many staff come together to embrace the spirit of Ramadan and support one another. The Iftar dinner has quickly become a cherished tradition, and I look forward to seeing it grow in the coming years.”
The evening’s programme included a heartfelt speech from Vice Principal Pete Haynes, whose words resonated deeply with attendees. His message emphasised the importance of fostering a sense of belonging for all, regardless of faith or background, and acknowledged the perseverance and contributions of Muslim colleagues. His remarks highlighted the vital role events like the Iftar dinner play in nurturing unity and mutual respect within the College community.
The College was also privileged to welcome the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Shahin Ashraf MBE, as the event’s distinguished guest. The Mayor participated in breaking the fast, warmly engaging with attendees and sharing insights into her work. Her presence and thoughtful words left a lasting impression on everyone, reinforcing the sense of inclusion and community.
An evening of reflection, togetherness, and celebration at Solihull College & University Centre.
The event garnered further attention through coverage on BBC West Midlands Radio, where both Faizah and the Mayor spoke about the importance of inclusivity in such gatherings. This year’s Iftar dinner marked the second of its kind in the College’s history – a testament to the growing appreciation for such events. Faizah reflected: “When Grace and I proposed the idea last year, we were met with overwhelming support. Now, the Iftar dinner has become a highly anticipated event, with staff eager to learn about the details as soon as Ramadan begins.”
At Solihull College & University Centre, the values of community and inclusivity are paramount. Events like the Iftar dinner provide an opportunity for cultural and religious understanding while fostering deeper connections among colleagues. The College looks forward to continuing this tradition and watching it flourish in the years to come.
