Mahmoud Elnahla’s Post

Ramadan Kareem to all 🌙 We thank two of our colleagues, Aadam Patel, and Aafiyah Mullan, for sharing what Ramadan means to them as the holy month begins. As part of our ‘Belonging at Bellrock’ series we celebrate religious and national observances that are important to our colleagues and that align with our strategy for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As part of this series, we’ve consulted with colleagues on how we can accommodate colleagues in the workplace during Ramadan. What is Ramadan?   Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It is a time when Muslims around the world observe a dawn-to-dusk fast, refraining from food, drink, and worldly desires. Beyond abstaining from physical needs. Ramadan is a period of spiritual purification, self-discipline, and deepening one's connection with God. It is an opportunity for believers to strengthen their faith, seek forgiveness, and engage in acts of charity and compassion. Ramadan is a time of immense blessings and rewards, fostering unity, empathy, and gratitude within the Muslim community. When is Ramadan? The first day of fasting for Ramadan 2024 is Monday 11th March. Ramadan typically lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon, which marks the beginning and end of the month. The lunar calendar followed by Muslims is shorter than the Gregorian calendar, causing Ramadan to occur approximately 10 to 12 days earlier each year. How can we accommodate colleagues?   - Having an allocated room for staff who need to pray within working hours in the month of Ramadan and outside of it too. - Allowing flexibility in start and finish times to the working day. - Consider flexibility to the hybrid working model to allow for more remote working. - Avoid scheduling meetings around breaking fast time to allow colleagues to break their fast and eat. - Be prepared to receive, and where possible accept, holiday requests for certain periods of Ramadan and for Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. #Ramadan #Bellrockbelonging

The holy month of Ramadan has arrived and I wanted to share these key points: 1. Ramadan happens once a year and lasts around 30 days. 2. We follow the lunar calendar which is why it starts earlier each year (shifts by around 11 days). 3. It's a month for spiritual discipline and it helps us feel grateful for what we have. 4. We fast from Fajar (which is the first prayer in the morning) to sunset and yes: "not even water" (around 16 hours of fasting this year in the UK). 5. It's not just about abstaining from food/drink but also about charity and practicing patience and kindness. 6. It means a lot to us when you wish us a "Happy Ramadan". 7. We don't mind being around people eating/drinking so don't feel the need to apologise. 8. Our sleeping hours/caffeine intake changes so we might seem tired. We don't expect to get special treatment while fasting but it would be kinder to check our preference for meeting hours. 9. Ramadan was tough during lockdown, it did feel lonely and isolating as we weren’t able to see family/friends and the days felt longer. Do check on your Muslim friends/colleagues during this month. 10. No question is a bad question, we love talking about Ramadan and are happy to answer any questions people have 🌙Ramadan Mubarak to all my connections!🌙 #Ramadan2024 #monthofblessings

🌙✨ Embrace the Spirit of Ramadan: A Time for Reflection, Connection, and Growth! ✨🌙 As we approach the blessed month of Ramadan, it's not just about fasting from dawn till dusk; it's a time for spiritual rejuvenation, self-reflection, and strengthening bonds with our community. 🌿 What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). 🌟 Why Fast? Fasting isn't just about abstaining from food and drink; it's a holistic experience that encompasses self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and gratitude for life's blessings. Plus, it's an excellent opportunity for a detox from all the distractions. 🤝 Community Connection Ramadan isn't just about personal reflection; it's also about coming together as a community. Whether it's sharing meals with loved ones, breaking fast with friends, or reaching out to those in need, Ramadan fosters a sense of unity and compassion. 💡 Educational Moments During Ramadan, many Muslims engage in extra acts of worship, such as reading the Quran, attending nightly prayers (Taraweeh), and giving to charity (Zakat). It's a time for personal growth and spiritual development. 🎉 Celebrate Diversity Ramadan isn't exclusive to Muslims; it's an opportunity for people of all faiths and backgrounds to learn about and celebrate diversity. Hosting an Iftar meal, learning about Islamic traditions, or simply offering a kind word can bridge cultural gaps and promote understanding. 🚀 Takeaways for Work In the workplace, Ramadan teaches valuable lessons in empathy, time management, and resilience. Employers can support their Muslim colleagues by offering flexible schedules, accommodating religious practices, and fostering an inclusive environment for all. 🌙✨ Let's make this Ramadan a time of growth, connection, and positivity! Wishing everyone a blessed month ahead. ✨🌙 Ramadan Mubarak! #ramadan #ramadanmubarak #ramadankareem #workculture #fasting #reflection #diversity #inclusiveworkplace #muslimcommunity #islamiceducation

As billions of Muslims globally will embark on the sacred month of Ramadan soon, I wanted to share 10 friendly reminders to both myself and you, especially in the professional environment: 1) Try to be considerate towards colleagues who are fasting by avoiding early morning or late afternoon meetings. An email or call could be a more thoughtful approach. 2) If possible, offer flexible working hours to support altered prayer and meal times, and encourage taking breaks even if they're not for lunch. 3) When greeting Muslim colleagues, a verbal greeting is always safe and respectful, especially as physical contact with the opposite gender may not be customary. 4) A simple 'Ramadan Kareem' or 'Ramadan Mubarak' can go a long way in making someone feel acknowledged. And if you're thinking of a small gift, dates are a thoughtful choice for breaking the fast. 5) For any outdoor field missions, try to minimize the time in the sun to avoid additional fatigue for those fasting. 6) Interested in showing solidarity? Consider fasting for a day or join a colleague for Iftar, the meal to break the fast, to experience this important aspect of Ramadan. 7) Curiosity about Ramadan and fasting is welcome; engaging in open conversations can enrich workplace diversity and inclusion. Beyond the office: 8) Encouraging or respecting someone's commitment to prayer, fasting, or charitable acts during this time can be a meaningful gesture of support. 9) Use this time to uplift others, possibly even with a quiet prayer for their well-being. 10) Remember, Ramadan is more than abstaining from food; it's a period of self-improvement, growth, and emerging as a better version of oneself. Let's embrace this month with understanding, respect, and support for our Muslim colleagues and friends. Happy Ramadan to those observing! 🌙✨ #Ramadan #DiversityAndInclusion #WorkplaceCulture #share Note: This year, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening on Sunday, March 10, 2024 and end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. The Islamic Calendar follows a lunar cycle, and while these are the calculated expected dates of Ramadan, they can differ from place to place based on moon sightings or lack thereof.

Gaining Insight into Ramadan: A Cultural Awareness Message As we navigate the diverse landscape of our professional networks, it's essential to foster understanding and respect for various cultures and traditions. With the holy month of Ramadan approaching, I wanted to take a moment to share some insights into its significance for Muslims around the world. Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam, observed by millions of Muslims globally. It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increased devotion. Fasting from dawn to sunset is a central practice during this period, encompassing abstention from food, drink, and negative behaviors. Beyond the physical aspects, Ramadan encourages acts of kindness, charity, and community engagement. By raising awareness about Ramadan, we contribute to creating an inclusive environment where colleagues from diverse backgrounds feel valued and respected. Understanding the cultural significance of this month allows us to support one another, fostering a workplace that embraces diversity and promotes a sense of unity. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you'd like to engage in a conversation about cultural awareness. Wishing you a productive and harmonious month ahead. #Ramadan #Culture #Muslims #Awareness

I wish all my friends, colleagues, business partners and connections a very blessed month of Ramadan, I echoed the nice following message from my friend Mohamed El Daly. Today marks the beginning of the sacred month of #Ramadan, observed during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims worldwide fast for 30 days from dawn until sunset, abstaining from eating and drinking. This period is dedicated to spiritual enrichment and reflection, with added prayers and introspection aimed at purifying the mind, body, and soul and fostering a deeper connection with God. To support your Muslim colleagues and employees during this time, consider the following actions: 1. Extend warm wishes by saying “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem,” conveying your hopes for their blessed month. This small gesture can make a significant impact. 2. Practice respectfulness. There's no need to apologize for eating or drinking in their presence, as those fasting anticipate your usual routines. 3. Avoid assumptions. Not every Muslim fasts during Ramadan due to health issues or specific religious exemptions. Rather than inquiring why someone isn't fasting, offer your support. 4. Propose flexible working schedules and breaks. Since energy levels might vary, accommodating adjustments in work hours or break times can be greatly appreciated. 5. Foster awareness and education among your team about the importance of Ramadan. This effort aids in building an inclusive and respectful workplace culture. 6. Facilitate time off post-Ramadan for the celebration of ‘Eid’. 7. Ask your Muslim colleagues if you're curious about Ramadan and its practices. And if you're wondering, “Not even water?” the answer is, indeed, not even water. 🙂 I wish you and your loved ones a joyous, healthy, and prosperous Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem! This nice photo is from our house decorations.

As we approach the holy month of Ramadan, I wanted to take a moment to share some insights about this significant time for our Muslim colleagues and friends. Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims around the world. Here’s a brief guide to help understand and support our colleagues during this period: 1. What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. Fasting includes abstaining from food, drink, and certain behaviors. 2. Purpose of Fasting: Fasting during Ramadan is a spiritual practice aimed at developing self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and a deeper connection with God. It’s also a time for reflection, self-improvement, and strengthening community bonds. 3. Observance: Muslims begin their fast at dawn with a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor and break their fast at sunset with Iftar, a meal shared with family and friends. It’s customary to increase acts of worship, such as prayer, recitation of the Quran, and charitable giving, during Ramadan. 4. Accommodations: During Ramadan, our Muslim colleagues may adjust their schedules to accommodate fasting and prayer times. Understanding and flexibility regarding work hours and breaks can greatly support them during this time. 5. Respect and Consideration: It’s important to be mindful and respectful of our colleagues’ religious observances during Ramadan. Avoid scheduling important meetings or events during fasting hours if possible, and be understanding of any changes in productivity or energy levels. 6. Celebrating Together: Ramadan is also a time of celebration and unity. Consider organizing inclusive activities or gatherings to mark the end of each fasting day, where colleagues of all backgrounds can join in the festivities and share a meal together. As we embrace diversity and inclusivity in our workplace, let’s use this opportunity to learn from each other and strengthen our bonds as a team. Wishing our Muslim colleagues a blessed Ramadan filled with peace, joy, and spiritual growth. Feel free to share any additional tips or insights in the comments below. Ramadan Kareem! #ramadan2024 #ramadan #ramadankareem #ramadanmubarak

🌙✨ As we embrace the blessed month of Ramadan, let's take a moment to reflect on the profound benefits it brings into our lives: Spiritual Renewal: Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation through fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. It's a time to strengthen our connection with our faith and deepen our relationship with the Divine. Self-Discipline: Fasting during Ramadan teaches us self-discipline and self-control. By abstaining from food and drink from dawn till dusk, we learn to resist temptations and cultivate healthier habits. Empathy and Compassion: Fasting allows us to experience hunger and thirst, fostering empathy for those who are less fortunate. It reminds us to be grateful for our blessings and encourages acts of charity and kindness towards others. Community Bonding: Ramadan brings communities together in solidarity and fellowship. Through shared iftars (breaking of fast) and communal prayers, we strengthen our bonds with family, friends, and neighbors. Physical and Mental Detox: Fasting not only has spiritual benefits but also promotes physical and mental well-being. It gives our digestive system a break, detoxifies our bodies, and can lead to increased mental clarity and focus. May this Ramadan be a source of blessings, growth, and transformation for all of us. Ramadan Kareem! 🕌🌟 #Ramadan #RamadanKareem #Spirituality #SelfDiscipline #Empathy #Community #Wellbeing

1.9 Billion Muslims across the world will be welcoming the month of Ramadan - a time of fasting and reflection. In the spirit of diversity and inclusion, I’d to share some insights for those interested in learning more and supporting their Muslim friends and colleagues during this holy month: 📅 Ramadan is a 30-day practise where Muslims will be fasting from dawn to sunset. In the UK, this period can last for up to 17 hours. 🚰 In this period no food or drink is consumed. Not even water! - No apologies are necessary for eating or drinking around us. 📉 Sleep patterns may change due to that Energy levels could be low. 🎉 Similar to the start of Ramadan, Eid ul Fitr (Islamic Religious Holiday) could fall around the 10th April - be prepared for colleagues to book leave around this date. 🤝Be mindful that everyone will have a different approach to their faith - This is key to inclusion. ❔Questions about Ramadan are welcome- it's an opportunity to share our diverse traditions and beliefs. ✨During Ramadan special treatment is NOT expected. However, having an awareness on our religious month goes a long way in diversity and inclusion in the workplace. To those of you observing this blessed month “Ramadan Mubarak” #ramadan2024 #diversityinclusion

In a few days 1.9 Billion Muslims across the world will be welcoming the month of Ramadan - a time of fasting and reflection. In the spirit of diversity and inclusion, I’d to share some insights for those interested in learning more and supporting their Muslim friends and colleagues during this holy month: 📅 Ramadan is a 30-day practise where Muslims will be fasting from dawn to sunset. In the UK, this period can last for up to 17 hours. 🚰 In this period no food or drink is consumed. Not even water! - No apologies are necessary for eating or drinking around us. 📉 Sleep patterns may change due to that Energy levels could be low. 🎉 Similar to the start of Ramadan, Eid ul Fitr (Islamic Religious Holiday) could fall around the 10th April - be prepared for colleagues to book leave around this date. 🤝Be mindful that everyone will have a different approach to their faith - This is key to inclusion. ❔Questions about Ramadan are welcome- it's an opportunity to share our diverse traditions and beliefs. ✨During Ramadan special treatment is NOT expected. However, having an awareness on our religious month goes a long way in diversity and inclusion in the workplace. To those of you observing this blessed month “Ramadan Mubarak” #ramadan2024 #diversityandinclusion