Inspiring Positive Change, Networking Dinner

On April the 20^th the Mend Leicester working group held a dinner titled “Inspiring Positive Change”, attended by 130  Councillors, Imams, business people and community leaders.  It was a glamorous evening held in the prestigious, gothic St Barnabas Hall.  The assembled leaders were served  canopes and a three course meal.  The dinner was truly a highlight of the Muslim social calendar in Leicester.

During the programme videos were shown of Mend’s local and national work, interspersed with nasheeds from Omar Esa and a keynote speech from MEND founder Sufyan Ismail.

One of the main videos during the evening was of the horrific attack on Zainab Hussain, in Leicester, and all the work that MEND has done with the family and community since the attack. The video presentations were concluded with a poignant interview with Zainab.

In his presentation Sufyan Ismail highlighted how MEND had grown in to a nationwide organisation that is now working to reduce Islamophobia in communities, in schools, online and in workplaces.  He showcased MEND’s lobbying work, work in schools and the positive impact that MEND’s Islamophobia response unit is having on the lives of everyday Muslims.

From table to table the discussion at the event was continuously about how professional and organised MEND is an organisation and how it is punching way above its resources.  Many of the attendees signed up to join the MNED Leicester working group and thousands of pounds were raised for MEND’s ongoing work on Islamophobia.

Overall a highly successful and inspirational evening.