From a WhatsApp Group to a Registered Charity: The Inspiring Journey of Northstowe Muslims

It’s truly remarkable to reflect on how a simple WhatsApp group, created on 3rd January 2020, has blossomed into a vibrant, registered charity—Northstowe Muslims. Today, we stand as a growing faith-based organisation with a dedicated website, an active presence across Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), and representation in various Northstowe and Cambridgeshire-wide forums.

The spark that ignited this transformation came during a Ramadan Iftaar in April 2022, organised by the local group Jashan alongside community members including Brother Owais Siddiqui and Sister Zahara Razzaq. That event made one thing clear: the Muslim community in Northstowe needed a collective identity and voice. This event proved to be a catalyst when few community took upon themselves to create a community led faith group, and this led to Northstowe Muslims.

The name “Northstowe Muslims” itself emerged after extensive community-wide discussions, led by committed members like Brother Mohammad Waris Abdullah, Brother Owais Siddiqui, Jawad Nawash, Sister Saadia Ashraf, and others. Their leadership and vision ensured that the name truly reflected the will of the people, it is meant to represent.

By June 2022, acting on valuable community feedback, Brother Waris launched our digital presence—creating our Facebook, Instagram, X accounts, and a dedicated website. We began participating in Northstowe Faith Strategy Meetings and establishing a firm footprint in interfaith and civic conversations. Early pillars of this movement included Sister Yesim Demir, Brother Omer Beg, Brother Owais Siddiqui, Brother Yasser, Sister Saadia Ashraf, and Brother Mohammad Waris Abdullah.

It wasn’t long before the dream of building our own mosque in Northstowe began to take shape in our hearts. To turn that dream into reality, we knew we had to formalize our efforts. And so, a committed team came together to form what would become the registered charity Northstowe Muslims. After months of preparation and dedication, in 2023 our application was approved by the Charity Commission.

This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the tireless efforts and countless volunteer hours from Brother Jawad Nawash and Brother Mohammad Waris Abdullah, whose perseverance turned aspiration into accomplishment. This was the milestone, which made us a legal entity.

Our first prayer gatherings were held in the humble and welcoming homes of community members—Brother Saeed Fazal, Brother Waris Abdullah, Brother Yasser Shakoor, and Brother Jehangir. These early prayers were more than just rituals; they were the foundation of a growing faith community.

From a modest WhatsApp group to an officially registered charity, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. It is a testament to what sincere intention, unity, and faith can achieve. To all those who played a role, visible or behind the scenes—may Allah bless you abundantly.

Our Founding Trustees:

• First Chair: Brother Dr. Mohammad Waris Abdullah

• First Treasurer: Brother Jawad Nawash

• First Secretary: Sister Saadia Ashraf

Our journey continues with bigger dreams and greater responsibilities. May Allah (SWT) guide us, strengthen our unity, and help us serve in the path shown by Him and His beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Ameen.