MDX hosts Inter Faith Week to celebrate shared values

Staff, students, and community members of all faiths come together at Hendon campus to promote tolerance, unity, and understanding

Sharing a traditional pudding, exploring the science of climate change, and reflecting on what unites us were among the activities held at Middlesex University during Inter Faith Week.

This week’s events, led by a range of community groups, brought together staff, students, and local residents to mark the national initiative, which celebrates the shared values connecting people of all faiths and beliefs.

The celebrations began with a Noah’s Pudding gathering at the Hendon campus, where participants learned about, prepared, and enjoyed the delicious centuries-old dish, traditionally made as a symbol of unity and gratitude. 

Led by the Dialogue Society, a charity that promotes social cohesion, with Barnet Multi Faith Forum (BMFF) and the University’s staff Inter Faith Network (IFN), people shared the pudding, a sweet dish made from a mixture of grains, fruits and nuts, which holds special significance in Islamic tradition. 

Monna Rizvi, Vice Chair of BMFF and a member of the University’s IFN, said: “Traditionally, this dish, made in large quantities, was distributed to neighbours, relatives, and those in need, regardless of faith or background. It symbolises unity, friendship, and peace. It was a fantastic event that truly embodied those values.”

“In a diverse city like London, it’s a pleasure to work with Middlesex University, which regularly hosts events that strengthen community cohesion. Engaging with students and residents and exchanging ideas through dialogue continually inspire our work.”
Cigdem Duran, Dialogue Society North London Branch Director

Following the celebration, a Climate Fresk workshop took place to mark IFW and the 20th anniversary of Mitzvah Day. It was jointly organised by Barnet Multi Faith Forum, MDX IFN and the Mitzvah Day charity, which promotes the UK’s largest faith-led day of social action based on Jewish values, bringing people of all faiths and backgrounds together to make a difference to their community.

The interactive three-hour workshop uses a card game to teach participants about the science of climate change and to inspire environmental action. Over two million people worldwide have now taken part. Facilitators leading the workshop, including members of BMFF, MDX IFN and the local community, embarked on their personal Climate Fresk journey almost a year ago to prepare for the event.

Dan Rickman, Interim CEO of Mitzvah Day, said: “Mitzvah Day is about bringing people together through shared action and conversation. Inter Faith Week and activities like Climate Fresk and Noah’s Pudding capture that perfectly — practical, meaningful ways to connect across communities while tackling the issues that matter most.”

Anne N’Diaye, Climate Fresk facilitator and trainer, said: “Climate Fresk is the perfect Mitzvah Day companion. It empowers people of all faiths to understand the climate crisis. In the spirit of doing good, it bridges communities and generations with purpose.”

The event was especially relevant for the University’s staff IFN which has focused on sustainability this year as part of its awareness-raising activities with colleagues.

Councillor Sara Conway, of London Borough of Barnet, gave a talk highlighting the work of community groups in the borough, including the IFN. Reverend Dr Julie Gittoes, Vicar of St Mary’s CE Church in Hendon and Area Dean of Barnet also attended. 

Amir Ohadi, Chair of BMFF’s Environment and Sustainability Committee, said: “The Climate Fresk workshop is a way for people of diverse backgrounds to learn, share and discuss actions in response to the deepening climate crisis. Noah’s Pudding offers a simple but powerful act of sharing food, opening conversations that embody the spirit of Inter Faith Week and Mitzvah Day. Our collaboration with Middlesex University, faith communities, local government and partners strengthens these values, building dialogue, climate action, and community cohesion.”

An interfaith discussion led by Barnet Multi Faith Forum with Middlesex University is also being held this week at Hendon Town Hall. People taking part, including University staff and students, will be encouraged to exchange ideas on strengthening cooperation between the borough’s faith communities.

Professor Shân Wareing, Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University, said: “Actively promoting understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures and values is a very important part of life at Middlesex University so I’m delighted to see our staff and students involved in Inter Faith Week events hosted at our Hendon campus. These activities, involving people of a wide range of faiths, are important for fostering awareness of each other’s beliefs, and celebrating our shared humanity, with our diverse staff, students, and local community.”