Burton Unity’s ‘Grand Iftar’: Celebrating Unity, Diversity, and Empowerment.
Burton Unity brings together Burton’s women to break fast as a community and honour Ramadan’s spirit.
By Rena Khanom
On 16th March 2025, Burton Unity hosted its second unforgettable ‘Grand Iftar,’* celebrating unity, diversity, and empowerment. The event brought together Burton’s women to break fast as a community and honour Ramadan’s spirit, highlighting patience, resilience, and love, especially within families.
Islam deeply values kinship, emphasising the importance of maintaining family and relationships as commanded by Allah (SWT).
Branston Pavillion was elegantly transformed into a regal setting, adorned with decorations that instantly transported guests into a rich, traditional ambiance of Ramadan by Burton’s own Hello Sweetness Events (see instagram)
The gathering beautifully showcased the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs of women, including Vice Madam Mayor Kim Smith, Kathy Hardy - CEO of Affinity Learning Partnership, and over 200 incredible women. United in their goal of building a supportive and inclusive community, the event was not only a celebration of Ramadan but also a testament to the power of women uplifting one another.
The Grand Iftar showcased, Quran recitation by Aunty Tayyeba, Echoes of Praise - a small group of Burton Women and children who sing in praise of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. There were smiles and laughters and applauds for Assia, who sang a beautiful naat, and Burton Unity’s own Aishah recited the 99 names of Allah. Zakariya, aged 10, recited the Adhan at 6:17 pm, signalling the end of fast, followed by a delicious five-course meal!
Ladies left smiling, satisfied hearts and bellies filled with delicious food. A heartfelt thank you from Burton Unity to everyone who attended making the evening truly special.
* The word “grand” usually describes something magnificent, and while Iftar is the meal Muslims eat at sunset to break their fast, “grand” at this event refers to the wonderful women who attended. This gathering is grand not because of the materialistic nature, but because of our unity and presence.
Grand Iftars in another context can be large-scale communal meal held during Ramadan, where people come together to break their fast after sunset. It is often organized by mosques, community groups, and cultural organizations to bring together Muslims and non-Muslims in a spirit of unity, charity, and understanding.
Key Features of an Iftar:
🌙 Breaking the Fast – Held at Maghrib (sunset prayer time), starting with dates and water, followed by a full meal
🕌 Community & Inclusion – Open to everyone, including people of all faiths and backgrounds
🍽 Traditional Foods – Features a variety of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and local cuisines
🤝 Charity & Generosity – Often organized as a charitable event with donations going to those in need
🎤 Talks & Speeches – Some include guest speakers, interfaith discussions, and cultural performances
Many cities worldwide hold Grand Iftar events in public squares, mosques, or banquet halls, aiming to foster community spirit and mutual respect
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