By the grace of Allah, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at organised a successful tabligh and book display at the Waterloo BookFest on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Several Ansar, Khuddam, and Atfal took part in the effort alongside the respected missionary, Mubashir Badar Sahib.
About Waterloo BookFest
Waterloo BookFest is an annual community literary festival held in Waterloo, Ontario, that celebrates books, reading, writing, and the exchange of ideas. Organised by the City of Waterloo, the event brings together authors, readers, publishers, community organisations, and local businesses for a day of author talks, book readings, panel discussions, workshops, and book displays. Designed to promote literacy and foster a love of learning, the festival draws visitors of all ages and backgrounds from across the Waterloo Region, offering cultural and educational organisations a welcoming platform to connect with the public and contribute to meaningful conversations within the community. This year’s festival hosted around 50 booths and was attended by several hundred visitors.
The Jama’at’s Participation
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at booked a booth to present the teachings of Islam and Ahmadiyyat, recognising the event as a valuable opportunity for tabligh and outreach and a way to make the Jama’at’s presence felt in the wider community.
A copy of the Holy Qur’an was showcased at the booth, and as part of the festival’s reading programme, Mubashir Badar Sahib was invited to the stage, where he recited Surah Al-Fatiha and spoke about the Holy Qur’an, offering attendees a brief introduction to its message and significance.
A wide range of tabligh literature, including numerous prominent titles and copies of the English translation of the Holy Qur’an, was displayed throughout the event and drew considerable interest from visitors. More than thirty meaningful, in-depth conversations took place between Jama’at members and guests, providing valuable opportunities to introduce the true teachings of Islam and Ahmadiyyat. Several books and booklets were given out free of charge to interested visitors, while others were sold. A number of Muslim attendees also visited the booth and expressed their appreciation for the Jama’at’s efforts to promote Islam.
Overall, the Jama’at was able to present a positive and impactful message about the beauty of Islam and Ahmadiyyat, which was warmly received by those who visited.
The initiative was organised by Majlis Ansarullah Kitchener and the Ishaat Department of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Kitchener, with the cooperation of Majlis Ansarullah Cambridge. Several Khuddam and Atfal also offered their help and participation. May Allah accept these humble efforts and make them a means of guidance for many. Ameen.
