Muslimah Today, Durban’s only conference for Muslim women, hosted by ILM for Women, a division of the Institute for Learning and Motivation – South Africa (ILM-SA) takes place Saturday 29 August, 9am-4.30pm, at the NMJ Islamic Centre. A dynamic lineup of speakers – including Ebrahim Rasool, the former premier of the Western Cape and award-winning author Shubnum Khan – feature. This year, Fatima Asmal, the founder of ILM-SA will also be speaking. We caught up with her ahead of the event.
1. Muslimah Today has become an established event on Durban’s calendar. What does reaching another edition of the conference mean to you personally?
When we initiated Muslimah Today back in 2012, one of the primary objectives was to bring women from all walks of life together for a day of sisterhood and inspiration in a space that feels safe and non-elitist. Knowing that we have achieved that objective makes my heart feel full – but it is important to add that without the Help of the Almighty first, and secondly the faith our sponsors and partners have shown in us – this would not have been possible. So I’d say my heart is filled with gratitude not pride.
2. Muslimah Today combines faith, personal development, social issues and real-life experiences. Why is it important for the conference to address women as whole individuals rather than focusing on only one aspect of their lives?
Often when we are inviting speakers, the first question they ask is, “What is the theme for the conference?” We never focus on a theme because if we did so, it would probably be mainly/only women who are interested in that particular theme who would attend and therefore benefit. If as an organiser, you want everyone to gain some benefit from an event, you have to recognise that life by its very nature is multi-faceted and you have to cater for that by including “something for everyone” in the programme.
3. What feedback from attendees has most strongly reminded you why Muslimah Today needs to continue?
Gosh, all feedback means so much to us. But I guess if I had to choose, I’d say it is when attendees comment on the spirit of sisterhood which transcends man-made barriers like race, income group etc, which prevails at Muslimah Today that I am most inspired to continue. I also felt very motivated to continue when Dr Naledi Pandor who has spoken twice commented on a television station that it was a space which gave women a space to voice themselves, which is rare in our community (her comment not mine!)
4. Beyond organising events, ILM-SA supports students, madrasahs and families experiencing hardship. Which area of the organisation’s work is currently most in need of public support?
We need public support (in the form of financial contributions) mostly towards covering our running costs. Many people think charities like ours don’t have operational expenses – but we do, and if we were easily able to cover them, we’d be better placed to focus our attention entirely on our projects.
5. Women often carry several responsibilities at once. How do you balance being a mother, community leader, student, organiser and public figure without losing yourself in those roles?
My son is 22-years-old so there isn’t a lot of mothering involved in my life anymore lol. My time is divided between my mum, work, Arabic studies and leisure activities and I designate specific times in the day for each of these. For example, Arabic classes are on Tuesday and Wednesday, mum time is after work and at breakfast etc. etc, Sundays are for hiking. The one responsibility I do find challenging to manage is taking on the role my late father fulfilled in the home – I did not realise how time consuming it is to arrange plumbing, the changing of light bulbs etc!
6. When you need to switch off from responsibilities, what do you enjoy doing?
Playing padel, hiking, going to gym (particularly the boxing aspect of it which is built into my sessions), spending quality time with my mum and my best friend, watching a good thriller, sleeping. I’d like to add that I don’t view work as a responsibility – I love it, I’m fortunate that my work is my passion.
7. What is one personal goal you are currently working towards that has nothing to do with ILM-SA or Muslimah Today?
Becoming a better person in terms of what my faith requires of me.
8. What is the last book you read that made an impression on you?
The Forty Rules of Love.
9. Who has had the greatest influence on the woman you have become?
I can’t single out a single person in this regard. For me, the woman I have become, has been shaped by my understanding of the Qur’an.
10. What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?
If you have been through life experiences which you need to heal from, start that healing journey as soon as possible because if you don’t, it will have a negative impact on your life choices and consequently your life.
11. What are you most grateful for at the moment?
Being a Muslim – my faith has gotten me through life.
12. What is one lesson your parents taught you that still guides you today?
It is to lead a simple, non-extravagant life.
13. How would your closest friends describe you in three words?
My closest friend said she’d describe me as “Intelligent,” “Charismatic,” and “Dynamic.” But honestly the descriptions I most hear being attributed to me are “resilient” and “compassionate.”
14. What is your favourite comfort food?
Anything that’s a carbohydrate!
15. What is your favourite place in Durban to unwind?
The corner of our leather couch at home, or on/in my bed.
16. What is one habit you are currently trying to improve?
I memorised 16 parts of the Qur’an – and I need to revise them regularly. I’m trying to be more consistent in this regard.
17. What is your biggest pet peeve?
People disrespecting your time by being late for appointments.
18. What is the one word you would use to describe the chapter of life you are in now?
“Healing.”
19. What is one experience you would like to have at least once in your lifetime?
To experience healthy love with a beautiful human being within the context of a marriage.
20. Finally, why should a woman who has never attended Muslimah Today make 29 August the year she attends for the first time?
Because it’s unlike any other event which takes place in our community. I say that without taking anything away from other organisations who host events – they do a remarkable job. But without a single iota of pride, and attributing this solely to the Mercy of the Almighty, I promise you that you will not see a true representation of the diversity of Muslim women like you’ll see at Muslimah Today. Plus there’s the amazing speakers, the yummy food and a goodie bag worth close to R400.
Tickets for the conference are R320 and pensioners’ and students’ tickets are R220. Tickets include lunch, refreshments, stationery and a goodie bag. Please visit www.ilmsa.co.za/MT for bookings. Queries may be WhatsApped to 0832714500.
