Iftaar event held at the International Maarif School in Claremont, Cape Town. Photo: Supplied
Image: Supplied
With less than a week remaining in the holy month of Ramadan, an Iftaar event held at the International Maarif School in Claremont brought together religious leaders, community organisations, and local government officials to celebrate the breaking of the fast but also served as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by many across the globe.
The event was attended by Former Minister Ebrahim Patel, Speaker of the Western Cape Legislature Reagan Allen, Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, Leader of the opposition in the Western Cape Legislature Khalid Sayed, Judge Siraj Desai, and MJC President Sheikh Riad Fataar Al-Azhari were among the high-profile guests.
A tour at Maarif International School. Photo: Supplied
Image: Supplied
At the heart of the event was a stirring message from Yonca Sunel, the Turkish Consul General, who reminded attendees of the essence of Ramadan. “Tonight let us remember those around the world who face unimaginable hardships. Let us keep them in our prayers and in our hearts,” she said, her voice resonating with compassion.
Sunel elaborated on the profound lessons of Ramadan, which she described as a time for prayer, fasting, and self-discipline. “The deeper meaning,” she continued, “is indicative of gratitude and self-reflection. It teaches us to feel the struggles of others, to extend a helping hand, and to be grateful for what we have.”
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde addressing the guests. Photo: Supplied
Image: Supplied
Her words took on an even greater significance as she addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where many families are enduring the uncertainty of fasting without knowing if they will have food to break their fast at sunset. “More resources are needed to respond to the current humanitarian crises,” Sunel urged, calling for collective action and compassion.
Turkish Consul General Yonca Sunel with Western Cape Premier Alan Winde during a tour of the Maarif International School. Photo: Supplied
Image: Supplied
The event, hosted by the Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF) in collaboration with the Türkiye embassy and officials from the Western Cape government, highlighted the importance of education and community support.
Since its establishment in 2016, the TMF has opened 465 schools and universities across 51 countries, embodying a commitment to both academic excellence and humanitarian values.
The International Maarif School, which has been operational for over a year, focuses on maths, science, and technology while emphasising the significance of humanity in education. As part of its outreach, the school will hold an Open Day and scholarship exam for prospective Grade 7 and Grade 9 pupils on April 12, 2025, fostering further opportunities for youth in the community.
Yonca Sunel, the Turkish Consul General, who reminded attendees of the essence of Ramadan. Photo: Supplied
Image: Supplied
As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, gatherings such as this Iftaar not only mark the end of a period of reflection and fasting but also strengthen the bonds within the community and highlight the importance of supporting one another in times of need.
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