In keeping with the guidance of Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) on the importance of building stronger relationships with the youth of First Nations communities, Saskatoon Jama’at has continued its efforts to engage Indigenous youth through Tabligh and community initiatives.
By the grace of Allah, Saskatoon Jama’at organised the Ahmadiyya Muslim and Indigenous Youth Basketball Tournament 2026 in collaboration with the White Buffalo Youth Lodge. The tournament was held to encourage young people to take part in healthy and productive activities, to give them a platform to showcase their athletic talents, and to foster meaningful friendships. The event brought together Indigenous and Ahmadi Muslim youth in an atmosphere of unity, teamwork, mutual respect, and brotherhood.
The two-day tournament welcomed over one hundred Indigenous and Muslim youth from across Saskatchewan, including Khuddam from Regina Jama’at. For many of those attending, it was their first opportunity to interact closely with youth from different cultural and religious backgrounds, creating a valuable environment for understanding and relationship-building.
“When we meet, then we know that there are many commonalities between the communities.”
Throughout the tournament, participants displayed sportsmanship, leadership, discipline, and cooperation both on and off the court. The event created a welcoming atmosphere in which young people were able to connect, learn from one another, and strengthen community ties through sport.
The tournament commenced with a silent prayer led by Murabbi Saad Hayat Sahib. During the opening remarks, Executive Director of the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, Jolon Lafond, said: “When we meet, then we know that there are many commonalities between the communities. We want to highlight those commonalities and unite for the purpose of goodness.”
The atmosphere throughout the event remained one of excitement, encouragement, and mutual respect. Families, Elders, volunteers, coaches, and community leaders all played an important part in making the tournament a success.
The closing ceremony highlighted the true purpose of the gathering, which was to bring youth together in the spirit of friendship, understanding, and service to humanity. Participants were reminded that beyond medals and competition, the greatest achievement was the unity, brotherhood, and lasting relationships formed during the event, a reflection of the Community’s guiding motto, “Love for All, Hatred for None.”
Insha’Allah, Saskatoon Jama’at hopes to continue strengthening this partnership and to expand opportunities for Indigenous and Muslim youth to connect, learn, and grow together through future initiatives.
Readers are humbly requested to pray that Allah the Almighty may enable the Jama’at to fulfil the directions of beloved Huzoor (aba), and that it may be successful in building strong and lasting relationships with the First Nations communities of Saskatchewan. Ameen.
