National Convention

The MCC National Convention 2023 took place on July 16 last year at Islamic Institute of Toronto (IIT), marking its first open convention. Dignitaries from other Islamic organizations were invited for speeches. Br. Sharaf Eldin, President Strategy of MAC, Br. Ijaz Tahir, President of ICNA and Chairman of IIT Br. Farhad Khadim addressed various topics, with a primary focus on safeguarding ourselves and our families from the challenges confronting Muslims in Canada—the central theme of the convention. The event was held in various cities across Canada, including Toronto, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina, Winnipeg, and Vancouver. The BC Chapter met in person for the first time on this occasion in vancouver, as their members are scattered in Vancouver, Surrey, Kelowna and Prince George. The next national convention is scheduled on Sunday, July 7, 2024. The convention is designed to draw dignified lecturers and attendees from different cities with due festivity, and like the previous year, this event will be open to all.

Working with Others

Our Chairman, Br. Muhammad Zulkarnain, was invited by Muslim Ummah of North America as one of the key guests at the MUNA Convention 2023 held on August 20th in Pennsylvania, US, to address a large crowd. In another event, Br. Musleh Uddin Faradi, the President of the Muslim Community Association (MCA) of the UK visited Canada in August. He addressed a day-long education camp at Scarborough Centre, focusing on chapters in Toronto. Br. Jomir Soroardy, the Secretary General, was invited to a dinner with community leaders hosted by ICNA (Islamic Circle of North America), Canada. The purpose was to discuss issues related to chartered schools and to explore strategies for combating Islamophobia and injustices. During the event, Br. Jomir engaged with Presidents of MAC, ICNA, the Canadian Imam Council, the National Council of Canadian Muslims, and leaders of local Islamic organizations, exchanging insights to address these important issues.

Visits

Responding to an invitation from the MCC Dawah Department, Shaikh Dr. Abdus Salam Azadi from the UK visited Canada in August 2023. He delivered talks at various locations, drawing attendance from thousands of people. Shaikh Dr. Mohammad Abdus Samad, from Bangladesh, has also visited Canada in February 2024 addressing Toronto, Scarborough, Windsor, Regina, and Saskatoon. Br. Mashhud-ul Matin visited Winnipeg to offer guidance for the launch of MCC Youth Centre in the city. East Zone President Br. Shahin Siddiquee, Social Secretary Br. Waheed Hoque, and Assistant Secretary for Social Br. Enamul Haque Kawsar visited Ottawa last fall. They provided guidance to the local chapter, aiming to improve their standards and activities. To monitor activities and enhance interactions with local leaders, Br. Zulkarnain and West Zone President Br. Ahsan Sohag visited Saskatoon last year. Br. Jomir also visited Regina, Winnipeg and Edmonton at different times of the year.

Education

Under the coordination of Dr. Manzar Mahmud, Secretary of MCC University, a new course was launched in October 2023 on 'Challenges and Priorities of Muslims in North America.' The course is conducted by Dr. Mirza Galib, an Assistant Professor at Howard University, USA. This course delves into the historical narrative of Muslims in North America while addressing the challenges and opportunities for Muslims to positively impact their communities. Commencing in January 2024, the Charter Member Candidate course for the year 2024 is underway. The course is conducted by Education Secretary Dr. Salahuddin Khan. This program is strategically designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and tools to navigate challenges presented by western academia. Additionally, it aims to provide candidate members with a comprehensive understanding of the history of Islam and its gradual development.

Methodology and Training

The first published version of BoD approved Methodology, was sent to every chapter with a request to organize education and training sessions on the methodology. A two-day long training session on the constitution, methodology and web portals for the chapter leaders, educational secretaries, and the BoD was held federally in November 2023.

Professional Training and Student Support

MCC University Chapter started their programs under the leadership of Br. M Borhan Huda and the coordination of Br. Raihan Jamil. Two successful programs focusing on mental health, spiritual growth, and career development have already taken place with great enthusiasm among the participants. Around 40-50 participants took part in the online program.

Social Service Updates

A high-level committee headed by Br. Enamul Haque Kawsar was formed to support newcomers to deal with the challenges of initial settlement. Members from Toronto, Scarborough, and Montreal chapters are providing significant assistance tailored to the newcomers’ specific needs. This support is aimed at helping over hundreds of individuals in those areas, making their transition to a new phase of life more comfortable and welcoming. Members from various chapters, generously contributed to fundraising efforts and donation for relief efforts in response to the Turkey earthquake, Morocco flood, Palestinian disaster, and medical treatment in Bangladesh, through both local and global charitable organizations.

Picnics and Camping

Consistent with our tradition, chapters throughout Canada arranged summer picnics. Picnics play a vital role in fostering connections amon Bangladeshi-Canadian Muslims. People of all ages came together, enjoying the festivities and engaging in interactions to strengthen community bonds. The chapters that had this event are Ottawa, Scarborough, Toronto, Windsor, Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon and Edmonton. Edmonton hosted a 3-day long education-camp in Gull Lake, AB, participated by more than twenty families (120 participants). The visit included an Islamic scholar, Shaikh Dr. Masum Sarker Azhari, who delivered short speeches after every salah. Various sports and social activities aimed towards enhanced community bonding were also notable features of this education camp.

Dawah Activities

Dawah Secretariat, led by Dawah Secretary Br. Md. Ismail Hossain, continued their quarterly nation-wide halaqah, covering different topics addressed by renowned shaikhs from different parts of the world. Under the supervision of MCC sisters, Sr. Shaheena Alam Shelly, Sr. Quazi Fil Akmam (Tamanna), Sr. Sultana Razia, Sr. Tasneem Sumaiya and others, various school activities on Islamic Heritage Month (IHM) took place in October 2023. Chapters across Canada, especially Toronto, Scarborough, Saskatoon and Edmonton made the month successful with various events. MPP Doly Begum attended, supported and addressed an event held in Toronto.

Youth Programs

NextGen held a Youth Convention on “Art of Reflection: Balancing Life and Faith” at IIT for the 4th year, attracting hundreds of passionate youths from the Greater Toronto Area. Sheikh Musleh Khan, a Lecturer at IIT, and Sr. Nimao Ali, Principal at Abraar School, Ottawa, were invited to speak at the event. With a massive turnout and the enthusiastic participation of the youth, the program was a resounding success. Organizers were Br. Awlad Monshi, Br. Shahin Siddiquee, Br. Waheed Hoque, Br. Nuruzzaman Biswas, Br. Mohammed Habib Jannat, Sr. Tasneem Sumaiya, Sr. Nadia Akhter, Abdullah Ahmed, Jabeer Mahmud Rahman, Jarin Noshin, Mashrufa Orchi, Umayya Saleh and others. Please mark your calendar for 1st January to join next year’s exciting event. In the spirit of the holiday season, chapters from coast to coast in Canada united for the Annual Qur'an and Knowledge Competition and children's activities held during Ramadan and the December break. With the coordination of Br. Awlad Monshi, the NextGen Secretary, this captivating event drew the participation of several hundred individuals, showcasing the enthusiasm and dedication of the participants. The participating chapters include Toronto-Sister, Montreal East and West, Windsor, Saskatoon, Regina, Edmonton, and Winnipeg.

MCC Centres Updates

Under the leadership of Br. Waheed Hoque, President of MCC Scarborough Centre, its charity status was approved last fall, marking a significant milestone. The center is now open to receive increased donations, allowing contributors to receive tax receipts. Meanwhile, in Edmonton, the MCC Youth Centre is in full swing, renting a space to fulfill its needs, offering enriched Islamic classes and tutoring. Keep an eye out for updates as they diligently work on their pending official applications, ensuring a bright future for the youth in Edmonton!

IT and Website

The general website of MCC is reshuffled and will be updated soon led by IT Secretary Dr. Shaikh Akhlaq- E-Rasul and his team. The new look of the website with useful information and data needed for all members and all Canadian Muslims in general. The IT team also supports the daily maintenance and updating education, finance and organization portals. All members are expected to make a regular visit to https://mcofcanada.com the educational, financial and organizational portal of MCC.

Election and Important Dates

In accordance with the constitution, an upcoming election for the Board of Directors (BOD) and Chairman is scheduled during the last week of April 2024. Your active involvement is crucial to ensuring the organization secures the finest leadership for its promising future. Please contribute your skills and engage at your highest capacity to play a vital role in selecting leaders who will guide the organization towards continued success. Your participation is key in shaping a bright and prosperous future for our organization. Annual federal reporting, in the form of Annual General Meeting, will take place on Sunday, May 19, 2024, where all chapters and federal reports will be presented to the members following Q&A to the Chairman. All charter members are mandated to attend the program.

A Special Appeal

As Ramadan approaches, let's strive to make the most of this blessed month by extending our hands in generosity. Let's open our hearts to giving Zakat, directing our contributions towards the most deserving sectors and sections of people around the world. Your support can make a meaningful impact during this sacred time. Join us in spreading compassion and making a difference in the lives of those in need. Jazakumullah bil Khair. Walaikumus Salam Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh.

Muhammad Zulkarnain

Chairman Muslim Circle of Canada