The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat hosted its annual Neighbourhood Meet and Greet on January 16, bringing together residents and community leaders from across Bradford West Gwillimbury at the Leisure Centre despite challenging winter weather.
The event, which filled the MPR Room to capacity, featured remarks from Lal Khan Malik, National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Canada, who outlined the community’s service initiatives over the past year.
“At the heart of our faith is service to humanity,” Malik said. “Here in Bradford, we are humbled by the dedication of our members who strive to serve the community in practical and meaningful ways.”
Those initiatives included Humanity First food drives, blood donation campaigns, snow removal and grass cutting for neighbours, park cleanups and road maintenance. The annual Run for Bradford has raised funds for local charities over several years.
“It was truly my pleasure attending this wonderful community-led initiative, Thank you for all that you do for our community.”
His Worship James Leduc
A Family Apple Picking program at Hadiqa Ahmad Orchard drew particular attention, welcoming nearly 1,000 families representing more than 4,000 residents over six weeks last fall. Each family received a complimentary bag of apples.
Dr. Aslam Daud, Chairman of Humanity First Canada, spoke about the organization’s humanitarian services at local and national levels.
Mayor James Leduc praised the gathering. “It was truly my pleasure attending this wonderful community-led initiative,” he said. “Thank you for all that you do for our community.”
Deputy Mayor Raj Sandhu echoed the sentiment. “It was a pleasure to join everyone and be part of such a welcoming gathering,” he said.
Lieutenant Colonel Ferguson also attended, expressing appreciation for the hospitality and “meeting so many wonderful people.”
Guests enjoyed a shared dinner and lively conversation, reflecting the simple but important purpose of the evening: bringing the community closer together. Encouraging feedback from previous years inspired organizers to continue the New Year tradition.
