British Muslims gathered Saturday for the first Young Muslim Writers Awards since the COVID-19 pandemic began in the initiative run by the charity Muslim Hands with the support of the Institute of English Studies.

This year’s program saw 53 writers in 13 categories, with 35 judges searching for the best of the best.

After opening to the recitation of the Qur’an, Shahid Bashir from Muslim Hands expressed joy for seeing young writers, adding it is not enough that we read and write as we ought to read and write well.

Receiving their awards, the young winners read some of the work on stage, giving attendants a taste of their creativity.

The host and venue for the day, Professor Clare Lees from the Institute of English Studies, reminded that words can make us cry, and laugh and help us communicate, adding “words carry stories, histories, cultures, and faith.”

Project Manager Zainab Chohan, shared that Muslim Hands support this initiative as it allows them to empower children to share their thoughts and ideas.

Source: AboutIslam.net