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This week, in celebration of World Outdoor Day, we collaborated and were warmly hosted by Carlton Infant and Junior School to raise awareness about climate change and our Green Deen Project

We are immensely proud of the young stars from Carlton Infant and Junior School who joined us for our Green Deen initiative. They came with so much enthusiasm.

Carlton Infant and Junior School has not only actively participated in Green Deen workshops at Moonlight Trust but has also contributed to several community-driven environmental projects. These include building a garden and a pond-dipping facility. These fanta efforts that have earned national recognition.

So far, over 300 individuals—primarily youth and children—have taken part in the Moonlight Trust Green Deen initiative. This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming students from Carlton Infant and Junior School, who enjoyed a hands-on, immersive experience in nature while learning about environmental stewardship.

The Green Deen project addresses climate change through the lens of deen (faith), rooted in fitrah (nature), encouraging all communities—particularly people of faith—to take meaningful action. This unique approach not only tackles critical environmental issues but also deepens our spiritual bond with the natural world.

We have successfully delivered a series of free masterclasses. We have come together to explore intersectionality between climate change, biodiversity diversity, spirituality, and well being. Weve worked on highlighting these issues from a faith-based, spiritual perspective. These sessions are designed to inspire and engage people from all walks of life.

This initiative reflects our vision to create a “spiritual garden” within Dewsbury Country Park. This project is aimed to enhance the local environment, redevelop park infrastructure and whilst fostering spiritual well-being.

To contribute to the spiritual garden, you may also choose to donate a plaque displaying a Hadith. You can donate via moonlighttrust.enthuse.com/profile

Together, we can inspire our communities to protect and cherish the beauty of God's creation.

A huge heartfelt thank you to One Community Foundation for their generous support and funding.

@#Moonlighttrust @greendeen

Impact of the Bombing on human Lives.

Casualties and Destruction:

With over 2000 people dead due to recent Israeli strikes, this bombing could be one of the most catastrophic events in recent years. It has not only resulted in significant loss of life but also worsened the already dire conditions for survivors. Families are torn apart and communities devastated.

The death and injury of medical personnel have crippled the healthcare system, which was already on the verge of collapse due to shortages of medical supplies, fuel, and equipment. Medical staff are terrified to return to work, leaving hospitals and clinics understaffed or closed entirely. In a country where healthcare was already scarce, this has catastrophic consequences for the wounded and sick.

Refugee Crisis:

#Lebanon has been home to over 3 million refugees, primarily from Syria and Palestine, who are living in precarious conditions. These communities were already facing extreme hardships, with limited access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. The bombing has worsened their situation, making it even more difficult for aid agencies to reach them.

Refugee camps and overcrowded settlements may have been severely affected, leading to increased displacement and suffering within an already fragile group.

Humanitarian Crisis at its worst!

The bombing has compounded Lebanon’s deepening humanitarian crisis.

Infrastructural Damage:

Hospitals, schools, and residential areas have likely been damaged, further crippling the state’s ability to provide basic services.

Aid Shortages: International aid agencies may face additional obstacles in delivering aid due to security risks, making it harder for basic but essential supplies like food, water, and medicine to reach those in need.

The call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon is critical to preventing further devastation and suffering.

The psychological toll on survivors, refugees, and medical personnel is immense. The call for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon is critical to preventing further devastation and suffering. We at #MoonlightTrust stand alongside the international community in demanding the immediate #ceasefirenow.

We are proud to announce the successful delivery of 351 essential packages, including food, hygiene kits, and assistance with fuel and utility costs, reaching over 403 individuals—primarily women and children. At Moonlight Trust, we are committed to being at the forefront of crisis support for some of the most disadvantaged in our communities.

This initiative, supported by One Community Foundation, has provided crucial aid to registered disabled individuals, refugees, asylum seekers, children from impoverished backgrounds, single mothers, and the elderly.

We are truly honoured to serve and uplift these vulnerable groups during such challenging times.

If you would like to contribute to this vital campaign, please donate with the reference UK Family Crisis Support at https://moonlighttrust.enthuse...

Together, we can make a difference.

Mohhammed's story is a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of refugees. Qualities that often go unrecognized beneath the tragic circumstances they endure. Having been forced to flee Syria at the age of 12 and live in refugee camps across three different countries, Mohammed has faced immense challenges, including witnessing violence and experiencing deep trauma. Despite these hardships, he has continually shown remarkable determination.

In 2017, when Noushin met Mohammed and his family during an aid mission, Moonlight Trust was able to offer some support to them. Inspired by the help he received, Mohammed chose to volunteer with the organization and continues to serve as a proud ambassador to this day. His efforts highlight the incredible capacity for refugees to contribute positively to society when given even modest support.

Now living in Germany, Mohammed has achieved numerous personal and professional milestones. He has learned to speak German and is fluent in four languages, secured a job, and earned a professional qualification from college. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mohammed volunteered with a local church, helping to deliver food to the elderly, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the community. Despite the limited support he and his family have received, they are all working hard and contributing to society in meaningful ways.

Mohammed's journey exemplifies not only resilience in the face of adversity but also the potential for refugees to thrive and contribute to their new communities with the right opportunities and support.

Thank you Moahmmed for being an amazing ambassador for Moonlight Trust

We are thrilled to share the launch of our Green Deen workshops in Huddersfield. Last week, it was hosted by Al-Mu’min Academy at the Brian Jackson House. With 65 students, staff, and community members in attendance, the event was a testament to the power of faith-driven environmental stewardship.

Our Green Deen project sheds light on climate change through the lens of Deen (Faith), a Deen of Fitrah (Nature). This unique approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also deepens our spiritual connection to the world around us.

We are excited to announce a series of free masterclasses on climate change, which will explore these themes from a spiritual and faith-based perspective. These sessions are designed to inspire and engage communities from all walks of life.

This event embodies our vision of creating a spiritual garden within Dewsbury Country Park—a tangible effort to enhance our local environment while nurturing spiritual well-being. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Maysoon and the team at The Believers for their incredible work in making this event possible.

Stay tuned for upcoming workshops at local mosques, schools, and businesses. If you would like to contribute to the spiritual garden by donating a plaque with a Hadith display, please visit https://lnkd.in/ezJfGVza to donate. Together, let's continue to remind and inspire our communities to protect and preserve the beauty of God's creation.

Statement on Behalf of Our Trustees and Team Moonlight Trust

We are honoured to share this statement on behalf of our trustees and the entire Team Moonlight Trust. Today, we reflect on the immense courage and unwavering dedication of Shahnaz, a pillar of strength who played a pivotal role in combating the struggles faced by minorities and Muslims in the UK during the 1970s and 1980s.

Shahnaz's journey is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. During a time of profound racial tension, marked by riots and widespread discrimination, Shahnaz stood at the forefront, challenging the forces of hatred and ignorance. Her efforts were not only instrumental in protecting the vulnerable but also in fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among communities. She showed us all that in the face of division, our greatest weapon is our collective humanity.

The legacy of Shahnaz’s work during those turbulent decades continues to inspire our mission at Moonlight Trust. Her fight against racism and injustice laid the foundation for the values we hold dear today—equality, inclusion, and the relentless pursuit of a fairer society for all. We are deeply grateful for her contributions and for the path she has paved for future generations.

As we continue our work, we draw strength from Shahnaz’s example, reaffirming our commitment to stand against all forms of discrimination and to support those who are marginalized and oppressed. Her story reminds us that change is possible when we confront injustice with courage and compassion.

In honor of Shahnaz and all those who have fought and continue to fight for justice, we remain steadfast in our mission to create a world where everyone, regardless of their background, can live with dignity and peace.

You can listen to her podcast here: https://guerrillahistory.libsy...

@shahnazali

Like many others in our communities, we are horrified by the blatant displays of violence, racism, and Islamophobia. Refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers have contributed immensely to our society, embodying values of kindness, resilience, hard work, and strength. They represent the very opposite of the scenes we have recently witnessed.

We require collective efforts from both the government and our communities to stamp out this hate and bigotry and to foster unity and support for the betterment of our country. The current situation is tearing apart our communities, and we must do better. We must unite.

We as immigrants, owe it to our forefathers, who sacrificed their lives in World War II and helped rebuild this country after the war, and to our future generations, to protect and sustain community building and harmony." @nousheen_raja Raja CEO @moonlight.trust

It has been an honour to share the stage with Husam Zomlot, Sadiq Khan, and receive this prestigious award at the 20th anniversary of the Muslim News Awards for Excellence 2024 at London Marriot. It has been a truly special evening as Hossam Zomlot collected the award on behalf of all the journalists in Gaza, followed by powerful speeches from Daniel Levy, President Middle East Project, Sadiq Khan and Ahmed J Warsi. "The dawn is after the darkest hours. There is always hope," Hussam

I was the runner-up for the Alija Izetbegovic Award. This award is named after the Bosnian leader who, in the face of adversity, oppression, and genocide, helped secure the rights of his community to live in peace in Bosnia. The characteristics sought in the nominees of this award include courage and determination for a just world.

I won the Aman wa Amal Special Award. The award exemplified leadership characterised by courage and strong moral principles. The special category is designed at the discretion of the judges.

"Our courage and everything we have achieved is driven by Tawkkal, not ego." Noushin Raja

It was truly amazing to witness the remarkable contributions of Muslims throughout the UK, from sports to grassroots charitable initiatives.

A huge credit to Ahmed J Warsi, Chief editor of "The Muslim News UK," for his 20 years of dedication, support, and inspiration for our community. This is for everyone who has supported me and #MoonlightTrust

Tomorrow's Workshop: Climate Justice!

We often discuss social and humanitarian justice, but what about climate justice?

Join us in our mission to protect this beautiful treasure, our planet.

A Green Deen Project

To book your place, please email: info@moonlighttrust.org.uk

We love life and we celebrate life. Children in Gaza have taught us this. In addition to our food and clothing deliveries in Gaza, this Eid, we have provided toys, Eid gifts, and organized fun activities for the children who have endured trauma and hardship over the past six months. We extend a heartfelt shout-out to the volunteers who have brought smiles to their faces, uplifting these children despite the immense challenges they face. #EidMubarak #gaza

Keep supporting at Moonlighttrust.org.uk