Alhamdolillah, the Interfaith & Multicultural Flavours of Iftar held on February 22, 2026, at the City Hall Rotunda in Kitchener, was an outstanding and truly memorable success.
The evening welcomed more than 30 distinguished dignitaries and community leaders, along with approximately 160 invited guests, including members of academia, faith communities, and friends of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at. In addition, nearly 50 AMJ members and dedicated volunteers contributed to the success of the program. The program moderated by Nabeel Rana (Sec Umur-e-Kharjia, Kitchener) began with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an. Welcome remarks were delivered by President Dr. Ahmad Imran of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Cambridge.
A highlight of the evening was the vibrant multicultural panel, featuring speakers from Europe (Amar Cerimovic), the Middle East (Basheer Odeh) , Central America (Tyab Yaqoob), and South Asia (Imam Aneeq Ahmad), who beautifully shared how Ramadan is observed in their respective regions. The interfaith segment was equally inspiring, with scholars representing Hinduism (Dr. Neil Arya), Judaism (Bob Chodus), Christianity (Reverend Paul Poolton), and Islam (Imam Mubashir Badar) offering thoughtful reflections on the philosophy and spiritual significance of fasting within their traditions.
The program was further enriched by heartwarming presentations from our children. Young participants from South Asia recited a moving poem in praise of Allah, while children from Africa presented a Qaseeda in honour of the Holy Prophet (sa).
Several dignitaries were invited to share brief greetings, reflecting the spirit of unity and mutual respect that defined the evening. This included greetings from the Mayor of Kitchener Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor of Cambridge Jan Liggett, MP Tim Louis, MP Dr. Matt Strauss, Regional Chair Karen Redman and Chief Police Mark Cowan of Waterloo Regional Police Service.
The Adhan was called beautifully, followed by the breaking of the fast, congregational prayer, and dinner; all in an atmosphere of harmony, respectful dialogue, and brotherhood.
Alhamdolillah, the event truly embodied the spirit of Ramadan: faith, diversity, service, and unity.
