On Sunday 16^th October, Faith Inspire took an initiative to work with a cohort of 30 young people in aged 12-16 living in and around Barking, through a 10-month personal development programme called Steps.

The programme will be delivered from the Barking Learning Centre on Sundays 11am to 1pm, by Steps Leaders that have graduated from previously held Steps programme. The young people, their parents, as well as Steps Leaders were really excited for this much needed initiative for the young people in the area.

Their first day involved “ice-breakers” and general ground-rules setting session. However, this should not be taken as a norm, because this is a well-planned, tried and tested, 10 months programme to bring out the best in young people and the prospects for tomorrow’s leaders. Their journey entails 10 months of themed sessions, a residential, planning a major Iftar party, a charity excursion challenge, and an end of programme  celebratory and certification event.

“We are really excited with this cohort. They seem so eager.” Said Abdulla Almamun, the lead for the Faith Inspire Steps programme. “Once we give the young people the safe space, they often flourish!” He added.

Also excited was the Steps leader, Tahmid Ahmed “my role is to instill all the qualities in these young people to that those small brave steps towards their vison.” He said enthusiastically.

Further optimistic were young Jannah and her mum, Sabia Kamali. They’ve come all the way from Newham. “I’ve got my daughter signed up because I know Faith Inspire can deliver and bring the best out of her, to take those steps in her life journey.” She said.

Other Steps leaders present were Akram, Ihsan, Alim, Umar, Kohinoor, Mahmoda, Shamla, Unaysah. They all will be taking turns giving up their voluntary time for these young people’s development.

Faith Inspire is a Muslim organisation that engages in community outreach, promotes spiritual growth and actively works for social change. Their vision is to see an exemplary Muslim community in Britain that contributes to a society where all people flourish. Further details can be found on www.faithinspire.org