– Md. Sami Ahmad
Patna: The two-day organizational and training convention held by Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, Bihar Women’s Wing, started on September 27. It was a vibrant platform for fostering organisational awareness, personal development, and collective progress. The first day of the convention featured impactful sessions led by key figures, including Shaista Rafat, National Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, and Rabia Basri, Assistant Secretary of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind.
Shaista Rafat guided an inspiring workshop on “Organisational Awareness” during the third session of the day. She elucidated that true awareness begins with observation, progresses through reflection, and is realised through application, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding. Quoting the Quran, she emphasised that reflection unlocks the heart, enabling profound personal and collective growth.
She underscored that an organisation thrives on individuals united for a shared purpose – advancing the Islamic movement. She likened an organisation to a vehicle propelled by the movement, cautioning that when the means (organisation) becomes the goal, progress stalls. She highlighted that individuals are the organisation’s strength, and their impact depends on their level of awareness. In a powerful metaphor, she stated that in an organisation, “one plus one equals eleven,” as individual capabilities are not merged but utilised distinctly to amplify collective strength. Identifying and leveraging these capabilities, she noted, is key to fortifying the organisation.
She further outlined the four foundational pillars of the Islamic movement: leadership, obedience in matters of virtue, adherence to Shari’ah, and fostering mutual relationships. These principles, she stressed, guide the organisation toward its mission of advancing the Islamic cause with clarity and purpose.
In the first session, Rabia Basri delivered a compelling lecture on “Holistic Personality Development.” She urged participants to strengthen themselves in four critical ways: emotionally, ideologically, spiritually, and intellectually. She emphasised that personal growth in these domains is essential for women to navigate contemporary challenges and contribute meaningfully to society. Her insights inspired attendees to cultivate a balanced and impactful personality, equipping them to fulfil their roles within the organisation and beyond.
Basri also provided presidential remarks during the second session’s group discussion on “Progress on Fundamental and Essential Tasks.” Her feedback enriched the dialogue, offering strategic guidance to participants as they shared progress and challenges from their respective regions.
The convention began with a soulful Quranic recitation by Shagufta Bano, City Organizer of Patna, who presented verses 1 to 5 of Surah Al-Muddassir, along with their translation and explanation, setting a reflective tone for the day. The inaugural address by Zebaish Firdous, Organizer of Bihar Women’s Wing, eloquently emphasised that any significant work requires organisation and discipline, drawing inspiration from the example of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. She noted that while Allah could have entrusted the Prophet to carry out his mission alone, He provided devoted companions to work alongside him, spreading the message of truth.
She highlighted that as the world rapidly progresses, various issues concerning women are being raised. In such an environment, women must build self-confidence, step forward in multiple fields, and work with insight, rather than limiting themselves to being homemakers. She stressed the need to develop the ability to create an impact.
The first session, moderated by Muntaha Ghayas, included an engaging introduction session where participants connected in a lively manner. Sahifa Naz, Assistant Organizer of Bihar Women’s Wing, presented a report on the past two-and-a-half years’ activities, followed by Shaista Rafat’s valuable comments and suggestions.
The second session, moderated by Hafsa Imam, featured group discussions where participants, divided into groups, shared progress and challenges in their places of work, within a five-minute timeframe. A quiz based on pre-camp assignments, supervised by Sahifa Naz, added an interactive element.
The day concluded with a recreational session under Zeba Aftab, a member of Bihar Advisory Committee, where participants enthusiastically showcased their talents, fostering camaraderie and creativity. Breaks for prayers and meals provided moments of reflection and bonding.
This convention exemplified the commitment of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind to empower women through organisational awareness, personal growth, and collective action, setting a strong foundation for the second day’s proceedings.
