CoEJ Holds its first Annual Conference 2025 in Hyderi Islamic Centre (Term 2024-2027)
The First Annual CoEJ Conference of the term 2024-27 was held at the Hyderi Islamic Centre, South London on 10-11 Rabi Al Awwal, 5-6 September 2025.
Councillors, delegates and invitees participated in this supercharged one-and-a-half-day conference. Presentations from Secretariat Boards, departments, and initiatives led to highly topical and constructive deliberations throughout the event.
Speeches
The conference featured beautiful Qur’an recitations, especially as the Manar al-Huda Qur’an competition was held in parallel. Alhaj Aliasghar Bhai Khimani, President of Hyderi and host of the event, warmly welcomed the community leadership. In his address, he highlighted the Hyderi Centre’s growing potential and provided an update on its progress. He mentioned recent refurbishments and renovations, including a kitchen upgrade and the conversion of two halls into purpose-built workshop rooms for children. Additionally, he announced plans to build a multi-purpose sports hall, aiming to establish the centre as a community hub.
The Conference was blessed with both the Chairman of The Africa Federation, Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor, and the President of The World Federation, Alhaj Safder Bhai Jaffer, addressing the august body with engaging speeches.
Alhaj Amine Bhai Nassor delivered an eloquent speech in Gujarati and recited a signature Qasida in honor of the Holy Prophet (SAW). He emphasized the importance of the relationship between regional federations and expressed his delight at the closeness between them, as well as his desire for increased collaboration between Africa and Europe.
Alhaj Safder Bhai Jaffer emphasised the significance of unity among the federations, even in the face of differences. He reiterated the advice of His Eminence, Sayyid Al-Sistani (dz), on two key points: maintaining the community’s organised and democratic structure, and preserving unity at all costs
Opening Ceremony of Manar al-Huda Qur’an Competition
Community Servants were honoured to join Hyderi Jamaat in the opening ceremony of the Manar-al-Huda Qur’an competition.
The CoEJ Hon. Treasurer presented the finances and audited accounts. A spectacular financial development, with increased donations as well as spending on output was welcomed by the conference.
Morning
Secretariat & Board Updates
The CoEJ Secretary General, Zuhair Bhai Hirji gave a presentation filled with success stories, including the Lebanon Emergency Appeal, which raised over £99,000 and involved a historic partnership between CoEJ,  Who Is Hussain and WF-Aid. Record Ramadhan Relief collections, including aid to Gaza and delivering food to refugee camps.
Sports, Health and Wellbeing BoardÂ
The Sports, Health and Wellbeing Board has been very active, with a plethora of activities. This being the Year of Marhum Mulla Asgher (ra), the MAMT events through the year has a special significance.
Upcoming plans for gents include the MAMT Youth Football and Volleyball tournaments, while the ladies’ board is exploring an international football experience for girls and launching a new Ladies Fitness Hub.
Arba’een, Brand Ambassadorship
CoEJ has been actively involved in several community-building and advocacy efforts. A partnership with Maukib Imam Hassan bin Ali (as) provided an opportunity for community members to serve the pilgrims of Imam Husayn (a.s) during the Arba’een walk. A community delegation also had the honor of an audience with His Eminence Sayyid Al-Sistani, receiving prayers and guidance. The launch of a new Decoded Podcast is planned for the second half of 2025, which will explore various subjects through the lens of Islamic values.
Women’s Board
The Women’s Board hosted a series of successful workshops such as on self-improvement and spiritual preparation for Ramadhan and Muharram.Â
Seniors Board
The Seniors Board is focusing on several important activities, including an annual Milad un Nabi Programme, a trip to Iraq for seniors, and a retreat for senior leadership to enhance networking. A special task team has been appointed to explore and plan these initiatives, ensuring they are transparent and collaborative.
Palliative CareÂ
The Palliative Care initiative is progressing through several phases to provide support to the community. Phase 1 involved appointing 18 local support champions across 13 Jamaats. Phase 2 focused on community awareness, with a campaign launched during Ramadhan. Phase 3 included a CPD Day on Islamic and Medical Perspectives on Palliative Care, attended by champions, ulema, and support workers. Additionally, CoEJ has been actively involved in national advocacy against the Assisted Dying Bill, spearheading letter-writing campaigns and sending joint statements to the Secretary of State for Health. Â
Education, Youth and IdentityÂ
The Education, Youth and Identity chapter delivered a very successful Camp CoEJ 2025, Gujarati Camp as well as sponsorship towards Camp Kibaha.
QARI DepartmentÂ
Since its official launch in January, the QARI department has engaged multiple community strata, including a Ramadhan Qur’an Competition with over 200 participants and several online workshops. The Qur’an Retreat was a significant event, attracting approximately 650 attendees for workshops and a Mahfil-e-Qur’an. The department is also preparing for upcoming events, including a family event with Mulla Nazar Al-Qatari.Â
European Madaris Department (EMD)Â
The European Madaris Department has been focused on leadership engagement, with one-on-one meetings held with leaders from all member Madaris. They also initiated a Holy Qur’an Distribution project, dispatching 2,000 copies to various Madaris. A new Qur’an Teacher Training Course is set to begin in September 2025, in collaboration with QARI, to upskill teachers. The department is also planning a Madrasah Leadership Conference and a series of in-person visits to engage directly with institutions.Â
New Membership Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
After the Secretariat Updates, we had Shabbir Bhai Merali and Mehboob Bhai Dossa provide an update on the draft paper they proposed for the new Jamaat membership process.  Â
Portugal Jamaat Membership
Zuhair Bhai Hirji, also provided a quick update to the community on the Portugal Jamaat Membership. Â
Manchester Jamaat Membership
Kumail Bhai Dina provided an update that the Manchester Jamaat is currently in the process of formalising its structure and are being guided by the CoEJ Onboarding Team in line with the SOPs.
Paris North Capital Project
The President of Paris North, Mounaver Bhai Mahamade Houssen, shared their plans of acquisition of land to meet the current need of expanding their Madrasah.
Afternoon
The afternoon session began with the recitation of the Qur’an by Muhammad Ali Bhai Ismail followed by the address by the President of CoEJ, Arifali Bhai Hirji.
He began his address by framing the organisation’s work as a journey rooted in the spirit of Imam Husayn (a.s) and the teachings of Imam Jaffar Al-Sadiq (a.s). He emphasised that the role of a “Husayni” extends beyond simple lamentation and includes actively defending the truth and safeguarding the community’s future. He stated that the organisation’s efforts are not just about fulfilling promises but are a heartfelt endeavor to serve the community in the arrival of Imam Al Hujjat (ATFS).
Key Achievements and Deliverables
He highlighted a series of successful pledges and initiatives that have been delivered over the past year:
- QARI Department: This new department has become a source of pride, with other communities expressing interest in replicating its successful programs, including a Qur’an competition and a Mahfil-e-Qur’an program.
- National Advocacy: CoEJ has taken a proactive stance on national issues, notably by partnering with Majlis-e-Ulama to write letters to ministers and MPs regarding the assisted dying bill.
- Financial Growth: The organisation has seen a significant increase in donations, with much of the funding coming from numerous small, individual donors. A new multi-currency portal has also been launched.
- Arba’een Volunteering: A successful volunteer program was established to create a pipeline for people to serve pilgrims in Karbala.
- Palliative Care: Champions have been appointed across 13 member Jamaats to provide spiritual and practical guidance on end-of-life matters.
- Youth Camps: The feedback from this year’s camps was overwhelmingly positive, and they have become a template for success for other communities.
- Senior Citizen Ziyarat Trip: An overwhelming response to the planned trip to Iraq for senior citizens showed a strong desire for such opportunities, particularly for those who have never been.
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD): A program has been established for resident ulema to keep them updated on both Fiqh rulings and medical advancements.
- Community Mediation: He proudly mentioned the confidential work of the organisation in successfully mediating and resolving complex marital and communal conflicts.
Future Plans and New Leadership
Arifali Bhai also outlined several forward-looking pledges:
- Islamic Faith School Conference: A conference is planned for April 2026 to develop a comprehensive strategy for creating Islamic faith schools in Europe.
- Scholars Board: A new advisory board with prominent scholars has been confirmed to provide spiritual guidance.
- Financial Investments: The organisation aims to acquire six additional properties by 2027 to ensure financial growth.
- Islamic Life Coaching: A new program will be launched to provide guidance on navigating the challenges of modern life.
- Leadership Development: A unique program on Islamic management is being planned in partnership with Africa Federation.
He concluded by announcing a change in the secretariat, expressing gratitude to the outgoing Secretary General, Zuhair Bhai Hirji, and Assistant Secretary General, Kazimali Bhai Khaki, for their immense dedication. He then introduced the incoming leaders: Dr. Imran Janmohammed as the new Secretary General and Abbas Hussein Bhai Sikhilada as the new Assistant Secretary General.
CoEJ Commendations
It was an honour for CoEJ to present first-of-its-kind commendations, a tribute to those who serve, inspire and uplift our communities with sincerity, excellence and faith. The initiatives seek to strengthen Islamic identity, build self-worth rooted in servitude to Allah (swt) and the Ahlulbayt (a.s), and cultivate a culture of courage, contribution, and inspiration within the community.Â
Winners of the Commendation 2025:Â Â
The Zaynabiyya Commendation (Excellence in Faith) was presented to Sister Zahra KananiÂ
The Baqir al-’Uloom Commendation (Excellence in Religious Education, Madrasah) was presented to Sister Mariam Abbas Â
The ibn Sina Commendation (Excellence in Academics) was presented to Brother Ali JumaÂ
The Abul Fadhl al-Abbas Commendation (Excellence in Community Services) was presented to Brother Mohsin LakhaÂ
The Light of Muhammad (saw) Commendation (a recognition given by the CoEJ President) was presented to Mu’allim Murtaza Bandali
CoEJ Extends its sincere gratitude to Hyderi Islamic Centre for their impeccable hospitality and seamless coordination throughout the weekend. Â
The first annual conference was a testament to our continued strength of collaboration and in-person connection. As we continue this term, we remain steadfast to serving our communities through transparency, unity, and shared purpose.
