A powerful gesture of inclusion has come to life just off the N3 near Estcourt, thanks to one man’s empathy and determination. Simon Harper, owner of Midway Service Station, has built a Muslim prayer room, or “musallah,” at his establishment after witnessing, for years, the hardship of Muslim travellers performing their daily prayers in the open — often under a tree, sometimes in the rain.
Harper, who has owned the service station for the last seven years, said the idea struck him after repeatedly seeing Muslim customers praying outside, silently and without complaint. “It moved me deeply,” he said. “They never asked for anything — not even shelter — but I could see their discomfort. That’s when I knew I had to do something.”
What began as a personal idea grew into a collective effort. “I could not have done it alone,” he said. “Javid from Gift of the Givers played a key role in guiding the process, ensuring every detail was correct and respectful.” Additional help came from staff and even a Christian pastor, who was invited to bless the space — a touching act that reflected the spirit of interfaith unity.
The project took approximately eight weeks to complete, from design to finish. A pivotal moment for Harper came when he saw a traveller enter the musallah and begin to pray. “It was emotional,” he recalled. “That’s when I realised how a small act of accommodation can carry a big emotional impact. It’s about dignity as much as it is about comfort.”
Feedback from the Muslim community has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing deep gratitude for the clean, private, and peaceful space. According to Harper, the experience taught him that inclusion is empathy in action. “When we make room for others, we all grow,” he said.
But, Harper’s efforts didn’t stop at the musallah. He also pursued the certification of one of the station’s kitchens as halal, making it easier for Muslim customers to find meals prepared in accordance with their faith. Despite being turned away or ignored by many he approached for help, he refused to give up.
Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, shared how Harper’s sincerity and determination impressed him. “Simon never asked for a cent — only for guidance to do things the right way,” he said. With the help of halal inspectors and community contacts like Ebrahim and Maxwell Carpets, the kitchen was certified, carpets were fitted in the prayer room, and a geyser was installed in time for winter — all without delay.
“Simon is extremely grateful,” said Sooliman. “He has extended his welcome to the community, saying that we are always welcome to use the facilities at Midway Service Station.” For Harper, the journey has not only been about service but about growth. “This prayer room is a small but meaningful step toward understanding and compassion,” he said. “Everyone deserves to feel respected.”
