Hundreds of people mark the interfaith iftar celebration at Middlesex

The annual event to celebrate the fast-breaking meal of Muslims during Ramadan was organised entirely by students

Hundreds of students, staff and guests from community groups came together for the annual interfaith iftar on Middlesex University’s campus.

Iftar is the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims during Ramadan.

More than 100 students attended the event alongside guests from a range of community groups across the borough, including the Barnet Multi Faith Forum, the Persian Advice Bureau and the New Citizen Gateway. Speakers from various faiths shared messages of respecting neighbours, kindness and solidarity.

At the event Professor Shân Wareing (pictured above), the Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University, said: “It is no coincidence that the root of the word ‘company’ means ‘to share bread’. Because the act of sharing a meal is a simple but profound one.

“Whether we consider the Langar meal shared by Sikhs, the Seder in Judaism or in the communion of the Lord’s Supper in Christianity – many traditions recognise that by sharing food, we are sharing something of ourselves. And in doing so, we narrow the distance between us.

“I can vividly remember the fascinating conversations and new friendships forged at previous iftar meals at Middlesex – and I’m sure tonight will be no different.”

Samah Ghanem, Head Sister of the Islamic Society, said: “This year’s iftar at Middlesex is especially meaningful because it’s been organised entirely by students, which truly reflects the unity and dedication within our community. Ramadan is a time for reflection, gratitude, and compassion values that go far beyond fasting.

“The iftar reminds us that small, conscious choices like taking only what we need and sharing what we can are acts of worship too. Events like this bring people together from all backgrounds to celebrate shared values of kindness, awareness, and community spirit.”

“To every student here, do not fear taking space. Do not fear responsibility. Do not fear unity. Do not fear standing beside someone different from you because tonight proves something beautiful and powerful. People of different faiths, cultures and backgrounds can stand together, not despite their differences, but because of them.”

Faris Hussain Iqbal, President of the University’s Islamic Society

The Middlesex Iftar included a Quran recitation with translation by Humaid Akram Nooramith from the MDX Islamic Society (ISOC) as well as congregational prayers led by Sheikh Shuayb Patel, Imam of West Hendon Mosque. Throughout the evening, there was a focus on reducing food waste and promoting sustainability in Islam and there was a talk on the subject from Qari Mir Zahed from the Afghan Youth Guide Foundation.

During the evening, the Barnet Hill Academy Choir also performed two songs. 

In a speech, Reverend Dr Julia Gittoes, Vicar of St Mary's and Christ Church Hendon and Area Dean of Barnet, said: “Fasting is demanding. That discomfort reminds us of our dependence on God but also draws us into solidarity with the marginalised. 

“As Isaiah puts it, rather than hiding from our kin - our neighbours - we are to see and respond to them. This Lent, this Ramadan, may our fasting deepen our spiritual lives and draw us deeper into loving action. May this season prepare us to be the people our world needs: challenging systems of injustice and oppression; being advocates for fairness and dignity; meeting the needs of seeking food, shelter and refuge; living in a more sustainable, kincentric way with the earth.”