Learning & Work
Video: Mawlana Hazar Imam is awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Ottawa
At a special convocation ceremony held on 13 January 2012 at the University of Ottawa, Mawlana Hazar Imam was awarded the honorary degree Doctor of the University for his service to humanity.
Mawlana Hazar Imam receives honorary doctorate from the University of Ottawa; lauds Canada for “what it can do for others”
Ottawa, 13 January 2012 — At a special convocation ceremony held this morning at the University of Ottawa, Mawlana Hazar Imam was awarded the honorary degree Doctor of the University for his service to humanity. The convocation was presided over by University of Ottawa Chancellor Huguette Labelle, in what was her last official event following an 18-year tenure as Chancellor.
Opportunities abound at Africa conference hosted at the Ismaili Centre, London
A weekend-long Opportunity Africa conference held at the Ismaili Centre, London hinted at what is already spreading across the continent. With a growing middle class, an impending housing market boom, an infrastructure deficit waiting to be filled, and a common East African financial market on the horizon, Africa is a focal point for new expansion and entrepreneurship.
A square without corners: Innovators in media
A handful of Ismaili innovators in the digital media space are applying their creativity to promote change. Using emerging technologies such as smartphone cameras and interactive social media, they are producing compelling visual stories, harnessing new market segments and carefully studying the impact on audiences.
Ismaili producers explore ideas and perspectives with passion and purpose
Artistic production — including folk theatre — was a component of early civilisations including Greek, Roman, and Vedic cultures. In modern times, visual production is intertwined with far-reaching broadcast and social technologies. Hanif Kanji looks at a group of passionate Ismaili producers who use diverse media to influence social attitudes.
For students in IIS Graduate Programme, the whole world is a field for study
This past summer, students of The Institute of Ismaili Studies’ Graduate Programme in Islamic Studies and Humanities (GPISH) travelled to seven different locations across the globe as part of their field research projects. Zuleikha Haji and Sehr Tejpar share accounts from two sides of the globe.
Mawlana Hazar Imam signs agreement between the Ismaili Imamat and the State of Illinois
Chicago, 4 November 2011 — At the invitation of Illinois State Governor Patrick Quinn, Mawlana Hazar Imam travelled to Chicago today to sign an Agreement of Cooperation between the State of Illinois and the Ismaili Imamat. During the visit, Hazar Imam and Governor Quinn also held talks on a range of issues of mutual interest, including early childhood education and media and communications.
Mawlana Hazar Imam is awarded the J.C. Nichols Prize for Visionaries in Urban Development
Los Angeles, 28 October 2011 — Describing him as “an unparalleled leader in development, cultural preservation and philanthropy,” the Urban Land Institute has named Mawlana Hazar Imam the 2011 Laureate of the J.C. Nichols Prize for Visionaries in Urban Development. The prize recognises an individual whose career demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of responsible development.
Live Event: IIS Graduation Ceremony
The Institute of Ismaili Studies will hold a live webcast of the 2011 Graduation for the Graduate Programme in Islamic Studies and Humanities on Saturday, 22 October 2011 at 2:00 PM (London time). Professor David Ford of the University of Cambridge will deliver the Commencement Address.
Kabul school sparks new opportunities for young people and a brighter future for Afghanistan
Sparks Academy in Kabul is a catalyst for community development and learning opportunities for people of all ages. When Tahmina Shayan began volunteering with a community-based early childhood development programme of the Ismaili Council for Afghanistan that was supported by the school, she discovered new opportunities for herself and an avenue to make a difference in the lives of other young Afghans.
In the face of a bleak economy, Jamati institutions in France provide a boost to job hunters and budding entrepreneurs
A global economic downturn is hitting hard in many parts of the world, making it difficult to find jobs and risky to invest in new business opportunities. But in France, the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board has been on a mission to improve employability and enhance professional opportunities for the Jamat, and its early efforts have met success.
Talented musicians find space to grow in Ismaili Ensembles
Ismaili Musical Ensembles in the USA and Canada provide creative platforms for dedicated Ismaili musicians to learn, practice and showcase their talents. But the musicians are required to demonstrate the quality of their abilities and commit to the ongoing development of their musical education.
Snapshots of our identity on a coffee table
The photography book Ismailis, A Celebration of Diversity portrays the rich plurality of the global Ismaili community and the sentiments expressed by talented photographers through their visually stirring images. It is the result of one photographer’s love of art and the community.
University of Central Asia benefits from the services of a worldly accountant
Nasir Jetha’s career in accounting and finance has taken him around the world, from Tanzania to England, Canada and Bermuda. Most recently, it took him to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where he helped oversee the Finance Department of the University of Central Asia as a TKN volunteer.
Ismaili summer camps in North America teach youth about building communities that care
Each year, many Ismaili youth from all over North America spend their summers at camps organised by the Jamati institutions. They learn about the importance of being responsible members of the society, compete at various sports and games and take on leadership roles — all while growing, discovering, playing, and making friends.
Three years on, the Ismaili Centre, Dubai can look back with pride
Three years after the opening of the Ismaili Centre, Dubai, it has emerged as a multidisciplinary hub of culture, faith, education, and community identity. Exemplifying the core values of Ismaili Muslims, the Centre offers a platform for dialogue, unity and progress within the Jamat and the wider community.
Prime Minister of Kenya performs ground breaking of AKU School of Media and Communications in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam
Nairobi, 27 July — The Foundation Ceremony of the Aga Khan University’s Graduate School of Media and Communications was held today. Mawlana Hazar Imam and the Right Honourable Raila Odinga, Prime Minister of Kenya, presided over the ceremony.
CEO of Diamond Trust Bank tells of opportunities and growth in East Africa
Nasim Devji is the Group CEO and Managing Director of Diamond Trust Bank, Kenya — an affiliate of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development — and the first woman in the Kenyan banking industry to hold that office. She has garnered numerous career recognitions, including being named Leading African Woman in Business in 2010. Yasmin Madhani recently spoke with her.
Developing a child’s mind through the game of chess
Research shows that children who play chess cultivate good habits that benefit them academically and socially. Danial Asaria is a young chess champion from California who has won several local and national awards. His parents discuss how teaching their son chess has helped him to sharpen his focus, improved his analytical abilities and develop other important skills.
Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa inspires Central Asian youth while developing their potential
Thousands of kilometres from Khorog, on the other side of the vast Indian Ocean, is the Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa. Eight Tajik students were recently given the opportunity to attend the residential school, and are are now benefiting from a multicultural student body, experienced educators and state-of-the-art facilities.
TKN service a source of valuable experience and career growth
When Salim Mohamed started his Time and Knowledge Nazrana assignment with AKDN project and construction management company PCM, the civil engineer brought decades of experience to the East African construction projects he was tasked with overseeing. He in turn gained valuable experience working in an African setting, and an understanding of what it’s like to work for an AKDN institution.
Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi on community building and the pursuit of passions
In 2010, 38-year-old Naheed Nenshi made history when he became the first Muslim mayor of the City of Calgary in Canada. In a recent interview, Mayor Nenshi shared his thoughts on pluralism in civil society, community-building and his vision for women, young people, and the Ismaili community.
Finding peace amidst a legacy of conflict and resolution
In May 2010, Naveed Somani was named to the Steering Committee for the Royal Commonwealth Society’s Nkabom International Youth Leadership Programme. Focused on equipping young people with conflict resolution skills, the programme took him to Rwanda where he witnessed the legacy of a national conflict and its resolution. He shares his impressions and experiences.
Champion Ismaili debaters argue convincingly for youth to take up the art of disputation
Good debaters are not only eloquent speakers but also quick thinkers who can mould, evolve and expand a concept in order to challenge their opponent. Three North American Ismailis with a record of outshining the competition in the debating arena at state, provincial, national, and international levels, describe how the ability to intelligently dispute an argument has helped them succeed in other aspects of their lives.
National honours for members of the Jamat in Britain and Australia
Yasmin Waljee and Farah Ramzan Golant were recently named to the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, while Aladin Rahemtula became the first Ismaili to be conferred the Order of Australia. The awards recognise the outstanding services rendered by these individuals in their respective fields.
Climate change and the race to a low-carbon future offer challenges and opportunites
There is near universal scientific consensus that the loading of the atmosphere with greenhouse gases is causing increased global warming and associated climate change, argues Abyd Karmali. Fortunately, he notes, several countries are putting in place policies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, which are resulting substantial new economic opportunities.
Climate change, the carbon market and trees
Over the last 25 years, AKDN has planted over 100 million trees in Asia and Africa. Many communities already recognise that sustainable agro-forestry provides dividends in the form of food, fuel and fodder, and the emergence of a global carbon market presents new opportunity.
Awards highlight young Ismaili achievers across India
Young Ismailis are increasingly making their mark in all fields — academic and non-academic. Through the Youth Awards for Excellence, 2010, the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for India recognised the Jamati youth and honoured high achievers in fields such as sports, the arts, sciences, creative expression, and leadership.
New sport facility in Kabul cultivates the spirit of the youth
The Ismaili youth of Afghanistan have a new place where they can play, learn and socialise. The two-storey Youth, Sports and Social Development Center in Kabul, opened its doors in December 2010.
Voices of the media: Conversations with Ismaili media professionals
Mass media plays a crucial role in forming and capturing public opinion, and in shaping the perceptions of society at large. As more Ismailis emerge into the global media scene, a few from North America share insights into the responsibilities and challenges that are integral to their work.
Empowered women work to improve the lives of other women and their communities around the world
A number of Ismaili women have devoted their careers to elevating the status of women — particularly those who are disadvantaged — by improving the quality of their lives and those amongst whom they live in communities across the globe. By leveraging their own potential and fulfilling a desire to make a difference, they are providing inspiration for others to follow their lead.
Lighting a nation, one village at a time
Using mini solar-powered electric grids, Naeem Mawji — a determined Canadian Ismaili student and entrepreneur — has provided the villagers of Masurura, Tanzania access to both electricity and hope. Now he aims to transform the country’s economy by increasing access to electricity for other villages in the region.
Singaporean Ismaili makes debut in television series “Dream School”
Shirin Keshvani was a toddler when she first took to the stage. At age four, she was selected to emcee the official opening of her nursery school. In November, the 12-year-old made her television acting debut on Singapore’s Okto TV Channel in Dream School.
“Outsourced” not outdone — Ismaili actor makes headway in Hollywood
Rizwan Manji, an Ismaili Muslim actor from Toronto, plays the part of Rajiv in the hit comedy TV series Outsourced. The show, which features a cast of South Asian actors premiered this fall on NBC to critical acclaim, and has garnered worldwide attention and publicity.
Jamati members combine faith and innovation to help the environment
A group of proactive Ismailis are applying their innovative prowess to counter the spectre of climate change and ecological devastation. Inspired by Islam’s ethic of caring for the environment, they are doing their part to preserve and safeguard nature’s precious resources in order to sustain social and economic development.
National Park of Mali follows four decades of AKDN investment in West Africa
The Aga Khan Development Network’s involvement in West Africa began some 40 years ago, and has included investments in people, culture and enterprise. Last month, Mawlana Hazar Imam joined the President and people of Mali in marking the 50th anniversary of their independence, and inaugurated a National Park developed by AKTC as part of the occasion. Salima Chitalia reviews AKDN’s development efforts in the country.
Primary teacher education programmes cater religious education to the many ways in which children learn
Two decades after the introduction of the Ta‘lim curriculum, primary teacher education programmes have increased the effectiveness of teaching and learning at Ismaili religious education centres. Through a modern approach to education, children learn about Islam both as a faith and through its role in shaping Muslim civilisations.
Choosing an early child care centre with confidence
Numerous studies have shown that proper care in the early years of childhood is essential to academic success. Birth to age six is a time of intense brain development; therefore, choosing a quality child care programme that caters to the child’s developmental needs should be a top priority for parents.
Entrepreneurial women transform home-cooked meals into a source of income
The Jamat in Dubai includes a disproportionate number of bachelors and young families, who, with all the pressures of work and modern life, find it difficult to prepare traditional home cooked meals. Meanwhile, many older women in the Jamat possess exceptional cooking skills and an enterprising spirit. The opportunity to come together was obvious, and led to the creation of a Golden Alliance.
Harvard University Professor Ali Asani discusses a new course on Ismaili history and thought
In the spring of 2010, Harvard University, for the first time in its history, offered a course on Ismaili History and Thought. Harvard student Shenila S. Khoja-Moolji spoke with Professor Ali Asani about his experience designing and teaching it.
Malagasy students immerse themselves in Kenyan culture and hospitality
In April, 13 students from Madagascar travelled to Kenya for a week-long visit. It was an opportunity for them to experience a culture outside their own, meet Ismaili students from another country, and to immerse themselves in an environment where they could improve their spoken and written English.
Scholarship opportunities abound; students need only apply
Each year, companies and charities offer more than $2 billion in private scholarships, which, in addition to being an attractive form of education financing, are also a prestigious form of recognition. But many scholarships go unfulfilled because nobody applies for them. Three students share tips from their scholarship successes.
Performers join hands across the Indian Ocean to celebrate Africa at 2010 World Cup
Over the past four weeks, millions of people have turned their attention to South Africa, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup championship. It is the first time that the tournament is being hosted in an African country, and for a group of Ismaili musicians who performed at the Kick Off Concert, the occasion is particularly special.
Sustaining the humanistic tradition of civic participation
Through civic engagement, humankind has refined agricultural practices, reformed education, rebuilt communities after natural disasters, and strengthened civil society. In countries around the world, Ismaili Muslims have made their own mark on history through community involvement, voluntary service, youth education and political engagement.
Ismaili artists draw inspiration from their Muslim faith and culture
Several North American-based Ismaili artists talk about what draws them to create art. They also discuss how Islamic themes and symbols influence their work, and how they use art to give expression to their personal faith interpretations while exploring cultural heritage and celebrating identity.
Five-part international news programme sheds new light on human trafficking
It is believed to be one of the fastest growing forms of organised crime in the world, though most people ignore it or are simply unaware. But through a five-part series currently being aired on BBC World Television, executive producer Faridoun Hemani and researcher Jazzmin Jiwa hope to change that. They assert that human trafficking is a modern form of slavery.
Almost a century later, the Girl Scouts movement is still engaged in service
This year, the Girl Guide movement turns 98. Over the years, the organisation’s impact on the physical, mental and spiritual development of girls and young women has been phenomenal. Many Ismaili Muslim women who are part of the movement have become inspiring role models and leaders in their communities and the world.
Ismaili scouts earn prestigious Eagle Scout award for outstanding community service
In December, ten Ismaili Muslim Boy Scouts in Texas earned the prestigious Eagle Scout Award for performing outstanding community service that demonstrated initiative, commitment to help those in need, and extraordinary leadership skills. This prestigious rank is achieved by only five per cent of all Boy Scouts in the United States.
Books, bonding, and new beginnings
It is a little past three in the morning on a foggy, Seattle Sunday, but a group of women are already armed and ready with a carpool list, tea, and that month’s novel tucked under their arms. Since February 2009, the book club’s members meet every first Sunday of the month to discuss books as varied and diverse as the women in their group.
Jamati reading programmes promote critical thinking in children
Across the United States and Canada, year-round programmes in various Jamatkhanas encourage critical thinking and nurture a love of reading among children. In celebration of Reading Month, TheIsmaili.org is also pleased to highlight a number of web-based tools and resources to help parents enhance their children’s literacy.
Cultivating a love of reading in young children
Children enter the world eager to learn, and research shows that when parents read daily to their children — especially in the first five years of their life — it promotes language acquisition, literacy development, and academic success at school. In celebration of Reading Month, TheIsmaili.org explores the experiences of many Ismaili families who read to their children.
The magic of reading: A mother’s account
Novelist Shaila Abdullah tells how just as her parents cultivated a love of books in her from a young age, she in turn shared this love with her daughter, Aanyah, from the moment she was born. Today, at six-years-old, Aanyah is the one reading to her mother!
Four Partnership Walk & Run enthusiasts share their experience of meeting beneficiaries firsthand
Last November, four dedicated participants from the Partnership Walk & Run in the United Kingdom had a chance to see the impact of their efforts firsthand. They spent seven days in India, where they visited one of the projects selected to receive funds from the event. They recently shared their impressions with TheIsmaili.org.
A half century of the Daily Nation
When the Daily Nation was established in 1960, the newspaper business in Kenya was dominated by the colonial press, which did not represent the interests and aspirations of the local people. By staying true to its mission of helping the newly independent country discover its civic voice, the Nation emerged as the country’s most popular daily.
Marking the 50th anniversary of the Daily Nation, Mawlana Hazar Imam announces a new journalism school to be situated in East Africa
Mawlana Hazar Imam announced the establishment of a new Graduate School of Media and Communications today, which will be part of the Aga Khan University (AKU) in East Africa. Hazar Imam made the announcement as part of his address at the inaugural Pan-Africa Media Conference, which marks the 50th Anniversary of the Nation Media Group.
Perched at the Daily Nation, young journalist shares a bird’s eye view of the Kenyan media landscape
Newly minted out of Columbia’s School of Journalism, Jami Makan spent eight months as an intern at the Daily Nation, the Nation Media Group’s flagship newspaper in Kenya. As the Nation celebrates its 50th year, he reflects on what he observed about the role and impact of the media in contemporary Kenyan society.
Transforming values into reality — A conversation with Eboo Patel (Part 2)
Concluding a two-part series, Eboo Patel, the Founder and Executive Director of Interfaith Youth Core, discusses how his organisation overcomes the faith line and promotes religious pluralism by bringing young people together to engage in dialogue and service to the community. (Read the first part of this interview here.)
The shared value of religious pluralism — A conversation with Eboo Patel (Part 1)
In the first of a two-part series, TheIsmaili.org spoke with Eboo Patel, the Founder and Executive Director of Interfaith Youth Core, an organisation that promotes mutual respect and pluralism among young people from different religious traditions. Patel shares his understanding of religious pluralism and explains what motivates him in his work.
Trial without sight: How one woman’s triumph against the odds allowed her to give back to society
Imagine swimming 750 metres, then biking 20 kilometres, and finally running 5 kilometres in a span of a few hours. Sounds like an intense physical challenge? How about taking this on without your sense of sight? Rozina Issani shares her inspiring personal story.
Knowledge Discovery Challenge sparks innovative solutions to address global development problems
The Knowledge Discovery Challenge was a competition in which Ismailis in Canada were invited to develop solutions to international development problems. The winning team found a way to address inadequate maternal and infant health care in a refugee camp, while fostering economic opportunity for women living there.
New breed of social entrepreneurs foster ethical enterprise
The notion that enterprise should be conscious of its impact on society rather than focusing exclusively on the pursuit of profit, has long been part of the Muslim ethic. It is also an increasingly visible trend in business that is finding new vitality in the era of social media.
Jamati member from Australia earns second prize in Divisional Toastmasters competition
Hussain Rajwani of Sydney, Australia was recently placed second in a Toastmasters divisional competition. Toastmasters International is a global organisation dedicated to public speaking and oral communication, enhancing leadership skills and confidence.
Novel approach to Early Childhood Education in Africa is creating a valuable legacy
Canadian kindergarten educator Shamim Murji recently returned to her country of birth, Uganda, where she volunteered with the AKF Madrasa Resource Centre. She shares her impressions of their preschool programme and the impact it is having on children, teachers and their communities.
Ismaili Centre plays host to the 2009 Lisbon Forum
In November, the Ismaili Centre, Lisbon was the venue of the 2009 Lisbon Forum, an annual event of the North-South Centre. Focused on the “creation of a culture of human rights through education,” the gathering was organised in partnership with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations and the Aga Khan Development Network.
Ismaili Student Network introduces young Ismailis to university life
Abeed Mohamed is one of a number of young Ismailis who left home for the first time this autumn, to begin life as a university student. The Ismaili Student Network helped him and other UK students to prepare for this important transition.
Scoring the sounds of Bollywood
Salim and Sulaiman Merchant started their career composing “jingles” — short pieces for television advertisements. But a big break in 1997 led them to build a solid career in Bollywood, where they regularly compose songs and background music for high-profile films.
First days of school: Project Shelter Wakadogo opens in Uganda
Earlier this year, TheIsmaili.org reported on Project Shelter Wakadogo, which was building a nursery school in Northern Uganda. Five months later, with the school built, we caught up with Farah Williamson, one of the project principals, to learn how they are progressing and their hopes for the future.
Economic opportunities in Bangladesh attract interest from the Jamat abroad
Decades ago, Bangladesh was home to a thriving Jamat. Ismailis were active in key industries including jute, textiles, steel, aluminum, leather, construction, and food processing, as well as trading, banking, insurance and hotels. Today, the country is re-emerging as an area of economic interest to both the Jamat and the wider international community.
Lifelong learning graduates empowered by their achievements
The idea that learning extends from the cradle to the grave underpins the philosophy of the ICEU Lifelong Learning Programme. The programme’s impact on the lives of participants has been as broad as the range of subjects that they have pursued.
Born special: A family’s journey of acceptance and hope
There is no easy access to Zain Ali’s mind — at the age of two he was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. But his parents decided they would leave no stone unturned in exploring the various programs, therapies and interventions that exist for children like him.
From Kyoto to Copenhagen: The next step in the fight against climate change
Twelve years ago, Abyd Karmali witnessed the negotiation of the Kyoto Protocol to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. Drawing on his experience, he discusses the crucial importance of the upcoming meeting in Copenhagen in addressing the current reality of the climate change crisis.
Eight hundred year-old Cambridge University awards Mawlana Hazar Imam an honorary degree
In a colourful and historic ceremony held on Friday, 12 June, the University of Cambridge conferred upon Mawlana Hazar Imam an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity. Hazar Imam became the first Muslim to receive the distinction in the University’s long and storied history.
University’s international ambitions resonate with students
That students at the University of Alberta are inspired to make an international impact through their activities is no coincidence. Their school is engaged in an array of international collaborations around the world, a fact remarked upon by Mawlana Hazar Imam in his convocation address.
Seeking knowledge to the ends of the universe
Professor Arif Babul is an astrophysicist whose research into the origins of the universe is just one aspect of his multi-faceted career. A Distinguished Professor at the University of Victoria, he directs the Canadian Computational Cosmology Collaboration, and is an advocate for strengthened Muslim-West relations.
Navigating towards a better tomorrow together
With the economic downturn taking its toll across the United States, professionals, businesspersons, and recent graduates focused on upgrading their knowledge and networking skills at the Regional Ismaili Business Conference held in Dallas earlier this year.
A project for the little ones
In Northern Uganda, encouraging steps have been made towards peace in recent years, but there is a desperate need to rebuild civil institutions. One modest project is bringing hope to children and their families in a village just outside of Gulu district.
Talking the talk early in life
Research shows that young children are not just capable of learning several languages — they are hard-wired to do so. And being multilingual has cognitive and intellectual benefits that extend beyond the basic advantage of knowing another language.
A changing climate: Exploring the social impact of global warming
In February, an eminent panel convened in London as part of the Ismaili Centre Lecture Series to discuss global warming and its impact on the developing world. The panel turned its attention to the social impact of climate change, particularly in the developing world.
Lessons I learnt last summer
In this reflective piece, Aliyyah Giga, an alumnus of The Institute of Ismaili Studies’ Summer Programme on Islam, shares some personal lessons that she drew from her experience of the programme.
Graduates of IIS programme carve out dynamic career paths
Ismailis interested in tackling pressing issues faced by societies around the world increasingly see the Graduate Programme in Islamic Studies and Humanities as a stepping stone. The multi-disciplinary programme is a bridge to new and exciting opportunities.
Beginning a journey: The Certificate in Lifelong Learning
Continuous learning is essential in a rapidly-globalising world. New forms of communication are allowing access to information that was once hard to reach, and the rate at which people around the world are sharing new types of knowledge is growing.
UCA-NUS partnership to develop a cadre of Central Asian scholars
A partnership between the University of Central Asia and the National University of Singapore aims to ensure that Central Asian scholars with top international academic credentials are strongly represented in the UCA’s faculty. The first students selected for the programme have high aspirations for their native countries.
Civic participation and institutional expertise assist villages in Tajikistan to prepare for natural disaster
Thousands of families living in Tajikistan experience earthquakes and other hazards throughout the year that impact their lives and livelihoods. Focus Humanitarian Assistance strives to reduce the impact of natural disasters through community-based initiatives.
Qatar’s quest to build a knowledge society
Qatar is in a hurry to meet the challenges of a dynamically changing world by transforming itself into a knowledge society. Its leaders are propelling the nation on a quest for excellence in education.
Economic trends in Europe: Seeing risks as opportunities
Uncertainty always signals a need for caution. But spectacular payoffs, writes Professor Alnoor Bhimani, can also accrue from the opportunities that are presented by uncertainty.
Lifelong learning: A priority for the European Jamat
The ability to adapt and continue learning is an essential skill in a fast-paced and rapidly-changing world. The Ismaili Council for the European Union has launched a programme which aims to turn learning into a continuous and natural process in the life of every Ismaili in Europe.
Building the future one nanoparticle at a time
Huma Jafry-Lalani is pursuing a Ph.D. in nanotechnology — one of the newest fields of scientific research. It has a wide range of applications, and offers the possibility of addressing some of the world's most pressing issues.
Academy in Mombasa on the fast-track to realising its vision
Aziz Batada is a teacher at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, Kenya. He reflects on the rapid progress that he has witnessed over the past four years, and opportunities presented by the Academies programme.
Objectif Monde offers windows on a changing world
Objectif Monde brought together 250 students and young professionals from the French-speaking Jamats of Europe and West Africa to discuss career opportunities and trends in a rapidly changing world. We spoke with the organizers about the event and their thoughts on the future.
Young Canadian Ismailis recognized for their achievements
Six Canadian Ismailis were recently named to prestigious “Top 40 Under 40” lists for their achievements, vision, leadership and community involvement. They attribute their success to the values instilled in them as Ismaili Muslims, as well as the opportunity to thrive in the fields they love.
The “cosmopolitan ethic” explored
The 2007 Ismaili Centre Lecture Series concluded with addresses by Rageh Omar and Jan Aarte Scholte focusing on cosmopolitanism and identity, exploring ideas of tolerance and social justice in a pluralistic society. This gives way to the 2008 Lecture series which focuses on the theme Sharing the Narrative of Progress.
Ismaili business alliances in India
Ismaili-owned retail businesses in India are forming alliances in order to remain competitive in a growing economy. In November 2007, various Ismaili alliances gathered in Hyderabad to share best practices and strengthen their partnerships.
Ismaili Young Achievers Programme (IYAP), Uganda
In February 2008 the Aga Khan Education Services, Uganda, held its first Ismaili Young Achiever’s Programme (IYAP). This recognition programme celebrates the academic and extra-curricular accomplishments of the youth of the Jamat.
From AKDN to Google
Aleem Walji recently joined Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google, the world’s largest Internet search engine company. He is part of the Global Development team and brings to Google his insight in social development based on his education and experience with Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Spark of Knowledge Symposium
Firoz Rasul, President of Aga Khan University and Azim Nanji, Director of the Institute of Ismaili Studies discussed how knowledge could be advanced in the context of the 21st century at symposiums held in two Canadian cities, Toronto and Vancouver with video links to Edmonton, Calgary and Montreal.
Educational trends in Europe
Globalisation and the rapid emergence of new academic institutions have created an environment where students are offered more educational choices than ever before. Alnoor Bhimani, Professor at the London School of Economics identifies some educational trends and issues which will have an effect on the educational decisions made by European Jamat over the next decade.
Bangladesh Youth Camp
Society has high hopes for the youth given their potential to change the destiny of nations. The Prottasha (Bengali for "expectations") Youth Camp aimed to instill those aspirations in the youth of Bangladesh.
Camp Wasal 2007
The Indian Ocean region islands include: Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Comoros and Reunion Island. The predominantly French-speaking Jamat is spread among these islands and, in an effort promote English among the youth, the Aga Khan Education Services, Madagascar organised an English language camp that brought together participants from continental Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
Growing stronger, living longer
Seniors are living longer, are more educated and have witnessed more global changes than their predecessors. Today’s elders are therefore becoming the backbone of our society as well as role models for younger generations.
Rethinking savings strategies
The transformation of demographic trends in the European Union have led to a reshaping of the economic environment as well. In light of these changes, members of the European Jamat need to re-evaluate their savings strategies and career choices in order to ensure financial security.
European Jamat prepares for the knowledge society
With lifelong learning and cross-border economic collaboration becoming integral to success in today's meritocratic society, the Jamat needs to build upon its diverse resources in order to take advantage of the many opportunities and address the challenges presented by globalisation.
Forays into the global village
Sabeen Virani talks about the growing phenomenon of young people across North America going overseas to study, work, or volunteer. She recounts her own experience in Syria as well as other individuals’ ventures to places like Sudan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Uganda.
Euroventures Conference builds bridges across borders
In order facilitate effective business connections within members of the Jamat in Europe, the Euroventures programme organised a weekend-long conference in Portugal that brought together leaders in the entrepreneurial and professional domains within and outside the Jamat.
Training the leaders of tomorrow
Young people today require as much support as we can provide in their overall development. Outdoor leadership programmes can provide a continuous progression and a firm foundation from which to grow. Rizwan Virji writes about the initiatives organised for young members of the Jamat in Kenya with a view to enhancing their leadership development.
“Shoot for the moon” they say
"Shoot for the moon", they say - "even if you miss, you will land among the stars." Are these just statements to give hope or is it a reality? As participants in the Syrian Preparatory Programme (SyPP) Ruba Dayoub and Ahmad Alkasir set it to the test.
Life in the fast lane
The air was acrid and the noise deafening as state-of-the-art race cars zoomed around the track only coming in for a pit stop to pick up a fresh set of tires and more fuel. For a small group of Malaysian youth this outing exposed them to a very different career and allowed them to meet an Ismaili celebrity in their midst - Nur Ali, the dashing young racing phenom.
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