Building Bonds of Sisterhood Across State Lines

Building Bonds of Sisterhood Across State Lines

The women’s auxiliary (Lajna Imaillah) and youth (Nasirat) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community celebrated their Regional Ijtema (gathering) with great enthusiasm at Baitul Ata Mosque from May 2–3. Members from Miami, Charlotte, Orlando, North Carolina, and parts of Georgia gathered for the two-day event filled with love and excitement. The theme for this year’s Ijtema was “Jihad: Striving for High Moral Values.”

Out-of-state guests began arriving before Friday prayers, warmly welcomed by the Georgia chapter sisters, who generously opened their homes for visiting members. On Saturday morning, the program started with registration and breakfast. The first session opened with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by Hadith and the pledge.

Educational competitions then took place for women and youth (Nasirat), including recitation and memorization of the Holy Quran, poetry, impromptu speeches, and the popular Bait Baazi (poetry) contest. Participants competed with passion and energy, especially during the poetry competition, where teams kept going without wanting to give up, making it one of the most enjoyable parts of the day.

The first session concluded with Salat-ul-Zuhr (noon prayer) and a lunch break. During lunch, a lively bazaar featuring food, drinks, clothing, and household items allowed attendees to shop while supporting fundraising efforts for the women’s auxiliary organization.

The second session resumed with recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by an engaging workshop titled “Anger and Restraint: Wisdom of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him).” The workshop encouraged thoughtful discussion on practicing patience and self-restraint in daily life.

A Kahoot quiz based on the book Way of the Seekers, authored by the Second Caliph, Mirza Bashiruddin Mehmood Ahmad (may God be pleased with him), added an educational element to the program. Sports activities brought extra excitement to the gathering, while the office bearers’ meeting was held alongside recreational events. The evening wrapped up with a delicious dinner followed by Salat-ul-Maghrib and Isha (afternoon and night prayers), bringing a memorable day to an end.

On Sunday, May 3rd, the final day of the Regional Ijtema began with a hearty breakfast, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran and Hadith. The highly anticipated prize distribution ceremony then took place for women and youth participants who excelled in various academic and sports competitions throughout the event. Winners were recognized for their dedication and enthusiasm.

Ms. Farhat Pall delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all participants, organizers, volunteers, and hosts whose tireless efforts contributed to the event’s success. After Salat, guests collected lunch boxes and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the excellent planning and warm hospitality shown by the Georgia chapter. Many shared that the kindness and generosity of the hosts strengthened the bonds of sisterhood and made them feel truly at home.

Among the guests was Rebecca Valencia from Mocksville, North Carolina, a non-Ahmadi visitor who attended the program on Sunday with her daughter. Reflecting on her experience, she shared:

“My daughter and I attended the Ijtema 2026 in Atlanta. We had an excellent experience.

The event was well thought out and organized. The effort of the organizers was evident. We were able to find what we needed, and the food and friendship were abundant. We are exploring Islam and are very fortunate to have found the Ahmadiyya community.

The women I have met have displayed great kindness, knowledge, and patience with us. We have never felt pressure or judgment, only the openness that allows us to ask questions and continue to learn more about Islam. Thank you so much for allowing us to attend.”

The total attendance for the Regional gathering was 220, and a total of $3,099 was raised during the event.

Overall, the Ijtema was a tremendous success. Sisters left with cherished memories. Many attendees promised to return next year and bring along others who couldn’t attend this year’s inspiring gathering. The Regional Ijtema served as a beautiful reminder of unity, faith, and knowledge, leaving attendees inspired and spiritually rejuvenated as they headed home.