On Saturday, 2 December, the Daughters of the Ummah (DOU), the sisters youth initiative of Darul Ihsan Centre, hosted Muslimahs aged 9-14 at the Mariam Bee Centre in Berea, Durban, for the event “Paint and Ponder – Brushstrokes of Hope”.

It was a morning of reflection on the genocide and suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza, highlighted with an opening rendition of Qur'an verses to instil hope and consolation in the attendees during a time of suffering and hardship.

An interactive session followed, in which the attendees were asked questions related to Gaza. This allowed them to share their own sentiments and ruminations. An emphasis was placed on building one’s sense of spirituality, and how to take positive inspiration from the Palestinians to draw mercy from Allah Ta'ala and help ease the suffering of the Ummah.

The Muslimahs thereafter engaged in a painting activity, in which they could each express their creativity and aspirations for a free Palestine.

Beautiful artworks were produced, including Arabic calligraphy and symbols related to Palestine.

Lunch was then enjoyed by all the attendees, giving them an opportunity to socialise after the busy morning’s activities. Sisters were provided simple ways to assist the suffering Ummah and were also advised on how to turn the holidays into “holy-days”.

The event was an inspiring and beneficial one, offering eye-opening lessons from the current situation in Palestine to improve one’s commitment to their Deen.

The Darul Ihsan Youth Initiative events are free to attend and can be accessed by prior arrangement via the Darul Ihsan Centre.
Contact the Darul Ihsan offices on 031 577 7868 for further information.

Daughters of the Ummah

Darul Ihsan Media Desk