Students at City of Bristol College brought the college community together this week for its second ever Open Iftar, celebrating the holy month of Ramadan through an evening of reflection, learning and shared food.
The event, held at the College Green Centre welcomed students and colleagues from a wide range of backgrounds. Organised entirely by students with support from Elizabeth WIlde and the wider Student Experience Team, the evening highlighted the role of the Student Council and wider student community in promoting inclusivity, understanding and shared cultural experiences across the college.
The programme began with a welcome speech from student Manahil Noor Faisal, followed by a recitation from the Quran by Abdulelah Al-Rabahi. As sunset approached, Zaid Almarto delivered the call to prayer before the prayer itself was led by Abdulelah.
Guests then broke their fast together, sharing a meal prepared by Level 2 Culinary Skills students alongside the college’s Catering Team. The evening came to a close with a lively Islamic trivia quiz hosted by student Sainab Hassan, with prizes awarded to first, second and third place participants.
Speaking during the event, Manahil welcomed guests and reflected on the significance of the evening, commenting: “Hello and welcome to Open Iftar! It’s so nice to see such a diverse group of people here today celebrating one religion’s beautiful month.
“Tonight is the night to celebrate the beautiful month that is important to many people. This evening is very special as it’s the second Open Iftar in our college’s history, making it more than just a meal, it reflects the kind of community that we are building; one that is open and eager to understand one another and what makes it even more meaningful is that this event is fully organised by students and Elizabeth. It shows that we can achieve so much when we come together.
“For those who aren’t familiar, Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the holiest months around the world. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs during daylight hours.
“But Ramadam is so much more than hunger and thirst, it’s a time of spiritual self-reflection, discipline and renewal. It teaches us patience and self-control, it reminds us to be humble and grateful for the blessings that we often take for granted. Most importantly, it helps us to develop empathy for those who face hunger and hardship every day.
“Ramadan is also a time of generosity, charity and strengthening community ties, families and friends gather to break their fast, it is a moment of gratitude, togetherness and reflection, this is why hosting an Open Iftar is so meaningful. It allows us not only to share food but also understanding. In a world where differences can divide us, evenings like this can remind us that sitting together at one table can bring us closer, whether you’re fasting or simply here to show your support, your presence matters, it shows our college values, inclusion, respect and shared experience.”
By bringing students and colleagues together to learn about Ramadan and share the experience of an Open Iftar, the event reflected the college’s commitment to trust, community building and mutual respect.
The student-led initiative demonstrated how shared cultural experiences can strengthen connections across the college, continuing to create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone at City of Bristol College.
