EID MEANS


A PHOTOGRAPHY EID SERIES SHOWCASING THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY & HOSPITALITY DURING EID

NADIA

Nadia’s story fostering community in London highlights the essence of Eid: unity, warmth, and the strength found in togetherness. Growing up in a close-knit Yemeni community outside of London, Nadia moved to London ten years ago and found herself longing for the same connection she had known. Driven by this desire, she made a heartfelt du'a, asking Allah to help her build a similar community in her new city.

 

“I made du'a and I said to Allah like please help me find this community that I have been looking for help me develop it in London."

 

Nadia's efforts began with small gatherings of friends, which organically grew into a large group chat with nearly 200 people. She emphasises the importance of community in her daily life, from organising events and demonstrations to creating safe spaces for young people through her Saturday school that she runs with her friends. Nadia's dedication to community has transformed her routine, embedding a spirit of activism, support, and hospitality in everything she does.


“I don't ever want to say no to anyone. You don't know what they're going through, or what they might need, or what connections they might make that might change their lives."

Looking forward, Nadia hopes more people will host events, feel empowered to lead, and continue bringing others together.

RUNNING WITH THE BROTHERS

 

For  @runningwiththebrothers, Eid means love, peace, unity, togetherness, family, happiness, and gratitude. They started this running club to build a tight-knit community, stay fit, and have regular meet-ups. What began as a small group has grown into a diverse gathering of all ages, showcasing the power of coming together.

 

“RWB is our way of building a strong, supportive community. We started this to stay fit and foster brotherhood. Now, it’s a place where we all come together, young and old,
sharing wisdom and good vibes.”

Being part of this community has profoundly impacted their daily lives. It’s more than just running; it’s about support, advice, and sharing experiences. New Muslims find enlightenment, and young members learn from older ones, creating a space where everyone benefits. Their regular weekly runs keep them motivated and connected, significantly influencing their lives and interactions.


Eid celebrations with RWB focuses on family, friends, and giving back. Cherishing childhood memories and creating new ones, they make Eid special through family gatherings and acts of charity. Looking ahead, they aim to grow even bigger and strengthen their brotherhood and community spirit.

SUHAAR & MARY


Eid is a celebration of joy and renewal for Suhaar and Maryiama.

Suhaar describes it as a time to enjoy family and take a break from the normal routine, while Maryiama sees it as a community reunion filled with love and good vibes.


Their favourite Eid moments vary from experiencing Eid in Somalia for Suhaar, contrasting her usual London traditions, to Maryiama’s unique experience of helping at the mosque and celebrating with friends and family.

“Eid is about reconnecting with traditions, embracing new experiences, and celebrating with loved ones.”

Both highlight the importance of community and hospitality in their daily lives. Maryiama emphasises the Sunnah of being hospitable and considerate, always looking for ways to make others’ lives easier, whether it’s through a smile, a compliment, or a helping hand. Suhaar reflects on how being Muslim teaches living beyond individualism, focusing on helping family and friends, and wanting for others what one wants for oneself.



They also find community in different places: Suhaar enjoys the connection and joy from her book club, while Maryiama cherishes her volunteering at the mosque, bridging generational gaps and building friendships with elderly women. For both, Eid and their day-to-day interactions are deeply rooted in spreading kindness, fostering community, and celebrating togetherness.