Sabahuzafar, Missionary, New Zealand
Tasleem Ahmad Sahib reports that Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya New Zealand recently launched a new tabligh campaign called “Discover Islam NZ”.
In addition to the launch of a new website, which provides a one-stop source of Islamic teachings, it aims to introduce New Zealanders to the true teachings of Islam and to remove misunderstandings. The DiscoverIslam.NZ website features a growing library of articles, FAQs and blogs.
A variety of projects have been initiated by the Discover Islam NZ team. These initiatives are being held nationwide, with the aim of bringing the message of Islam to the people and dispelling common misconceptions associated with the faith.
Some of these projects include the “MeetYourMuslimNeighbour” initiative where we engage with people in localised meeting spots, including on neighbourhood streets and roads where we have open, honest discussions.
Another one being the “Islam Table Talk” sessions, which allows New Zealanders to meet and chat with Muslim Kiwis in informal and candid settings over a cup of coffee. Naturally, this helps to break down barriers and foster dialogue and understanding.
The Discover Islam NZ team has held these initiatives in Thames, Te Awamutu, Raglan, Cambridge and Hamilton thus far as part of the campaign.
On 9 September 2020, the Discover Islam NZ team visited Te Awamutu, a town located 150 km south of Auckland. Along with the “Meet Your Muslim Neighbour” street campaign, two “Islam Table Talk” sessions were held in the town centre.
A Discover Islam NZ delegation also had lengthy meetings with Ms Barbara Kuriger, Member of Parliament for Taranaki and Mayor of Waipa, Mr Jim Mylchreest at their respective offices.
In addition to this, the campaign has received coverage on social media and local news platforms – the visit to Te Awamutu was featured in an article on the NZ Herald/Te Awamutu Courier with another followup article to be published soon.