The Islamic Society

Award-winning end of the year for Exeter’s Islamic Society

A student society has recently been presented with two prestigious national awards in recognition of successful fundraising efforts.

The Islamic Society of the Falmouth and Exeter Student Union (FXU), based at the Penryn Campus, has been presented with both the Supernova Award for Best Newcomer for Charity Week and the Community Heroes award from the Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOIS).

Charity Week, which ran from 31 October to 6 November, is a volunteer campaign which aims to tackle humanitarian issues worldwide. It operates in six countries and the majority of universities in the UK.

The Islamic Society took part in the campaign for the first time this year, raising over £1,000 for the charity Orphans and Needy Children. This secured them the award of Best Newcomer which was presented at Charity Week’s Annual South Dinner.

Sajjad Jabarkhel, President of the Society said: “On behalf of the FXU Islamic Society, I would like to thank all of our volunteers, FXU, Charity Week volunteers and Islamic Relief, for giving us the chance to take part in Charity Week this year.

“The South region has managed to raise over £59,000 during this campaign, doubling last year’s total. We are extremely proud of representing FXU and this campus. Our first Charity Week is definitely one to remember.”

The Islamic Society raised the money through a number of different events including a bake sale, football tournament and henna and bracelet stall.

Representatives from the Society also recently attended the Federation of Student Islamic Societies Winter Conference, where they won the award for Community Heroes. In addition society secretary Chloe Zillwood was nominated for Best Committee Member.

Chloe Zillwood, Islamic Society President, said:

“It was a pleasure to speak about the work that FXU Islamic Society have done with the local community over the past two and a half years at the FOSIS Winter Conference.

Having our efforts recognised is always great and we would like to thank everyone that has helped us to win this year’s Community Heroes Award. From the volunteers that gave their time during Charity Week, to the societies that have shown their support, to the lovely presidents and staff at FXU who have helped us a lot this term, thank you!”

The Federation of Student Islamic Societies is a body that caters for the needs of Muslim students in further and higher education across the UK. The three-day Winter Conference, which ran from 16th to 18th December, is the largest gathering of Muslim students in the UK.

Chris Slesser, FXU President Falmouth, said:

“We’re really proud of the incredible success of the Islamic Society this term. It’s testament to their hard work and dedication to supporting the wider community.”

Date: 6 December 2016