Nadine Osman

University of Leicester’s Islamic society (ULISoc) was named Most Outstanding Islamic Society at the Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS) Midlands Annual award dinner.

At the recent FOSIS Annual Midlands Dinner, which saw 32 Islamic Societies gather to celebrate the work they’ve done over the past year, the ULISoc was named “Most Outstanding Islamic Society”.

ULISoc was recognised for their Charity Week fundraising efforts, raising £11,000 (compared to £4,000 in 2015).

FOSIS Midlands Vice-Chair, Fawaz Lone, explained, “ULISoc have been absolutely outstanding in the work they’ve done this year. From social events to welfare to education, they’ve been exceptional. They’ve put together some fantastic campaigns and projects; raising £11,000 for Charity Week, organising an informative Discover Islam Week and an inspiring array of events.”

Numerous issues faced by students were tackled during the year with a month focusing on Islamophobia, partnering with the Students’ Union to host various Mental Health events, a Blood Donation Drive. In addition to these, the society often raised money for various charity campaigns, such as the Burma Appeal, the Famine Crisis in East Africa and Syrians raising an average of £180 per appeal.

ULISoc also established a fortnightly dialogue with the Christian Union to build interfaith relations along with hosting Believe and Do Good week, which is an initiative for random acts of kindness encouraging members to be upstanding citizens in society. The week included various events including a feed the homeless walk, English classes for refugees, a City clean up and Food Harvest Collections.

ULISoc Deputy President, Mahmoud Shehab, said: “I am so proud of the Islamic Society Committee. I would like to thank the Students’ Union and the University for their phenomenal support throughout this year. Well done Team ULISoc – this award is yours!”