Special guest speaker Imam Nizam Mohammed delivered a religious prayer at the start followed by an Eid message from President Bashir who also thanked members for their recent efforts at the Williamsville outreach and reminded members of upcoming projects.The Club started its year of Rotary "Making a Difference" with the celebration of the festival of Eid Ul Fitr at its first regular meeting, held at the residence of Rotarian Hafiz and partner in service Laura.The meeting was called to order by Sgt. Terry Ali and after an excellent rendition of the National Anthem by child of Rotary Kyle Ali on steel pan who was joined by child of Rotary Saheli Ali in a beautiful vocal rendition of the National Anthem, chair for the afternoon Dir Rishi Ramlogan took carriage of the programme.
IPP Debbie Roopchand took the opportunity to thank members for their support at the recently concluded handover ceremony, wish everyone a productive Rotary year and to present Rotarians Amraz Alibocas and Rhea Nobbee with tokens of appreciation at the event for their dedicated service during the last Rotary year.
Imam Nizam Mohammed enlightened members on the meaning of Eid Mubarak - Eid meaning ever recurring happiness and Mubarak originating from the word "Baracka" meaning blessings and his discourse covered the importance of the 3 degrees of good viz the importance of justice, the doing of good to others and giving to kindred.
The evening was filled with wonderful vocal renditions of Qaseedas by Rotarians Amaraz Alibocas, Capildeo Baharry and a duet by children of Rotary Rehan and Saheli Ali. Child of Rotary Nabeel Mohammed delivered an Islamic message and Rotarian PP Jamir Ousman recited chapter 59 of the Holy Quran.
The evening came to a close with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Rotarian Terry Ali and partner in service Laura who expressed her thanks to partners in service Selene and Narisha for their assistance with the event.
The afternoon meal consisted of a traditional east Indian fare with traditional sweets and sawine as dessert which was enjoyed by all who attended.
The Club is deeply grateful to Rotarian Hafiz Ali and partner in service Laura Ali for hosting the event at their home, to partner in service Selene for her beautiful decor and to all Rotarians who through their efforts ensured the occasion of Eid was celebrated in a special way.
