Claire Brown – Tuesday 25th March 2025 – 12.30pm.
Last week, the Trust invited local staff, community members and partner organisations to share a special Iftar dinner under one roof to celebrate unity.
This was the third event of its kind, which took place on Thursday 19th March at Sandwell hub and was hosted by the Trust’s Muslim Chaplain, Imam Muhammed Asad MBE who began the evening with a talk on Islam.
Imam Muhammed Asad said: “The event was to show unity, empathy and sympathy to all our Muslim staff who are fasting during Ramadan. This year, we welcomed many non-Muslim staff to the dinner where they had the opportunity to learn about what Muslims do and the reason behind fasting. It was a fantastic event, and I’d like to thank everyone for attending.”
As well as WMAS staff, volunteers, students and managers, the dinner was attended by representatives from across the health, blue light and education sectors which included West Midlands Police, Royal College of GPs, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s Hospital and the University of Wolverhampton.
WMAS Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Marsh, fasted during the day prior to attending the evening to show solidarity with his Muslim staff, volunteers and students. He delivered a powerful message promoting mutual harmony and unity and showed his gratitude for the hard work of everyone at WMAS.
Talking after the event, Mr Marsh said: “The evening was a great opportunity to come together with our staff, volunteers and colleagues from different partner agencies to learn the significance of Ramadan and celebrate the great things we have in common as well as to show support to our staff, volunteers and students. By understanding each other and having a united approach within the workplace it’s ensures we’re the best we can be which, in turn, helps us to continue to provide world class healthcare and save as many lives as possible.”
The evening concluded with the Muslim call to prayer, Adhan, and performing Namaz, before attendees shared a feast together to break the day’s fast.
ENDS
Photograph courtesy of World News TV.