The aim of the day was to build bridges between communities in Peterborough and through the engagement help remove any misconceptions that individuals may have.

The format of the Open day was a wide range of exhibitions and galleries for visitors to experience as well as a range of hands on activities.

The main exhibition featured was the Holy Quran exhibition with artefacts and photographic imagery sourced from the Astan Quds Razavi Library, the most ancient and largest Islamic library in the world. The gallery consisted of a central showpiece of several ancient manuscripts of copies of the Holy Quran as well as an art gallery of photographic images of various styles of scripts throughout the world.

Another major feature for this event was the ''1001 Islamic Inventions'' exhibition inspired by the major International exhibition held at the London Science Museum in association with the Jameel foundation. Visitors discovered the contributions made by Islamic inventors over one thousand years ago which formed the basis of many modern day scientific inventions and discoveries.
Many were surprised to learn that Muslim inventors had played an important role in the invention of cameras, flying machines, clocks and even the everyday cup of coffee that dates its origin back to the Islamic civilizations. Visitors also had the opportunity to view the International award winning film, 1001 inventions and the library of secrets, starring Oscar-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley. The exhibition housed various items related to modern day inventions and also gave a ‘hands on’ opportunity for all to experience.

Visitors also got an insight into the community work that the Husaini Islamic Centre is involved with both internally as well as externally within the wider community. A PowerPoint presentation showed the various activities the community members have engaged with, examples are raising funds for the baby unit, empowering youths through the youth group in the centre, sports activities for all members, supporting local charities, providing opportunities for schools to visit as well as hosting teachers training days. This exhibition created an environment for networking as visitors sat on the chairs around or were able to sample ‘Kahwa’, an Arabic version of the Italian espresso, whilst sat comfortably on cushions, served by a young person dressed in the traditional Arab attire.

The ‘Discover Islam’ exhibition was featured on the first floor, giving visitors a different experience as they walked and also allowed an opportunity to ask questions to the young people from the Husaini Islamic Centre.
Another enjoyable experience that visitors had the opportunity to experience was Henna painting as well as have their names inscribed in Arabic on a place card. Also a Hijab stall with an opportunity for visitors to try the outer garments as well as headscarves.

The day was very engaging and visitors were also able to meet community members who were serving delicious refreshments throughout the day. Many used this opportunity to share their experiences with other visitors whilst some expressed their delight on having had such an opportunity. Some comments received on the feedback forms were:
'It was a brilliant event everyone was so helpful and it was brilliant to see what a great community we have in Peterborough'. This needs to be celebrated more and break some people's perceptions of such a peaceful people and culture.'  Thanks for a lovely day ’

'Very welcoming and very clear explanation given, extremely helpful people everywhere, just the right amount to see, you covered all basis'

‘ Thanks to all of you for making everyone so welcome…’

Resident Imam of the mosque Imam Mohammed Kassamali said: ‘This Open Day was organized with total commitment from all community members taking on various roles from planning to making it a reality. Majority of the work was carried out by the youths who worked effortlessly in bringing such a positive event for the wider community to engage with.

Project Manager, Mehboob Walji commented: ‘ This was an opportunity to build bridges and create cohesion within Peterborough ’

Members - Husaini Islamic Centre (Peterborough)