The Muslim Institute Community Empowerment Fund provides an annual grant a to grassroot UK Muslim organisation or individual working for the common good in our most neglected and overlooked communities. The fund seeks out and promotes excellence and high achievement.
The first beneficiaries of the Community Empowerment Fund were a new Oldham-based voluntary organisation Be whose mission is to empower young people and foster their self-confidence to help them believe in and achieve their goals.
In 2025 the Institute funded The Wholesome Retreat, curated by freelance consultant Tahseen Mehar in partnership with An-Nisa Society.
The 3 night all-inclusive retreat held in April brought together 15 young women aged between 18-25 from diverse backgrounds, for a deeply enriching experience exploring identity, mental wellbeing, spirituality, and belonging.
Guided by a team of experienced Muslim female practitioners, the retreat offered a holistic approach to personal development; supporting mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing through a programme of guided activities and community building.
Set on a working farm in the South Downs National Park, West Sussex, the accommodation provided the perfect rural venue for all on-site activities.
Tahseen Mehar accepts the community Empowerment Fund award at the Ninth Annual Ibn Rushd lecture, July 2024.