In accordance with the guidance of beloved Hudhur (aba), emphasizing 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 various Tabligh and community initiatives.
Alhamdulillah, Saskatoon Jama’at successfully organized the Ahmadiyya Muslim & Indigenous Youth Basketball Tournament 2026 in collaboration with the White Buffalo Youth Lodge.
The purpose of the tournament was to encourage youth to participate in healthy and productive activities while providing a platform to showcase their athletic talents and foster meaningful friendships. By the grace of Allah, the event successfully brought together Indigenous and Ahmadi Muslim youth in an atmosphere of unity, teamwork, mutual respect, and brotherhood.
The two-day tournament welcomed over 100 Indigenous and Muslim youth from across Saskatchewan, including participating Khuddam from Regina Jama’at. For many attendees, this was their first opportunity to interact closely with youth from different cultural and religious backgrounds, creating a valuable environment for understanding and relationship-building.
Throughout the tournament, participants displayed excellent sportsmanship, leadership, discipline, and cooperation both on and off the court. The event created a positive and welcoming atmosphere where youth were able to connect, learn from one another, and strengthen community ties through sports.
The tournament commenced with a silent prayer led by respected Murabbi Saad Hayat Sahib. During the opening remarks, Executive Director Jolon Lafond of the White Buffalo Youth Lodge stated:
“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 filled with excitement, encouragement, positivity, and mutual respect. Families, Elders, volunteers, coaches, and community leaders all played an important role in making the tournament successful.
The closing ceremony highlighted the true purpose of the tournament — bringing 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.
Insha’Allah, we hope to continue strengthening this partnership and expanding opportunities for Indigenous and Muslim youth to connect, learn, and grow together through future initiatives.
Love for All, Hatred for None.
We humbly request your special prayers that Allah the Almighty may enable us to fulfill the directions of beloved Hudhur (aba), and that we may be successful in building strong and lasting relationships with the First Nations communities of Saskatchewan.
Ameen!
JazakAllah
Wassalam,
Rashid Ahmed
