Leeds Grand Mosque has been crowned the winner of the coveted Convert Support category at the 6th Annual Beacon Mosque Awards, the award founded and sponsored by the Convert Muslim Foundation, underscores the mosque’s commitment to providing exceptional services for those embracing Islam. This marks the second year of the new category, which aims to recognise and celebrate mosques excelling in providing dedicated services to those who become Muslim.

 

Convert Muslim Foundation, renowned for its extensive experience in Convert Care service provision, has expanded its mission to guide and advise mosques on implementing and enhancing dedicated services within their organisations. The Beacon Mosque Awards, based on merit, are designed to encourage continuous improvement in services and set a gold standard for mosques across the UK.

 

The rigorous judging process, designed and overseen by the Convert Muslim Foundation, involves shortlisting nominees in the best convert support category based on evidence provided by the nominator and the mosque. Finalists undergo detailed interviews with an experienced judging panel, with criteria encompassing Accessibility, Support Range, Expertise, Facilities/Capacity, Convert Involvement, and Above and Beyond.

 

The finalists all showed a caring commitment to convert care and the Convert Muslim Foundation has provided feedback to help shape their service.

 

Leeds Grand Mosque stood out in every category, with its comprehensive approach to convert support. The mosque, boasting a regular congregation of over 2000 Muslims, has integrated convert care into its core objectives, making it a deserving recipient of the Beacon Mosque Awards.

 

The range of support provided by LGM is commendable, featuring Sunday drop-in sessions and circles with the Imam tailored for new Muslims. Paul Martin is the lead volunteer, and is a convert to Islam and mosque committee member, showcasing exemplary commitment to bridging the gap between the mosque and new Muslims.

 

Notably, the Leeds mosque's has a dedicated ‘new to Islam’ website exclusively designed for converts. This platform provides information about their service, a subscription service for updates, and includes a shahada service upon request.

 

The CMF has praised Leeds Grand Mosque for its dedication to understanding and catering to diverse needs within the Muslim community. Safeguarding lead Maariya Aziz has implemented clear policies to protect individuals, reflecting the mosque's thoughtful and thorough approach. The mosque's imam actively contributes by advising the congregation on how to warmly welcome new Muslims. Leeds Grand Mosque's holistic approach to convert support stands as a shining example, setting a benchmark for mosques nationwide.

 

The Beacon Mosque Awards not only recognise excellence but also inspire mosques to continually enhance their services, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for the growing Muslim community in the UK.

 

Kerry Mannan

Executive Officer

Convert Muslim Foundation

December, 2023

info@convertmuslimfoundation.org.uk

www.convertmuslimfoundation.org.uk