Exeter’s Islamic Society has been named the most outstanding Islamic society in the South, by the Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS).
The group have achieved incredible success this year and are nominated for three Students’ Guild awards, in broadening student engagement, cultural & community contribution and student group of the year.
Mo Mohamed, Isoc’s President, attributes their success to interesting events which entice people to join – including the society’s signature event ‘Poetry Night’, Discover Islam Month and various guest speakers. One such figure, Abdel Rahman Murphy – an international speaker – attracted Muslims from as far away as Plymouth earlier this year, later tweeting “don’t sleep on @UniExeterISoc. They are legit Masha Allah!”
The society, which has six non-Muslim members, was also keen to explain it always attempts to be as welcoming and tolerant as possible, encouraging all students to come along even if they are not religious and stresses one of its main goals is to simply educate people about Islam.
The group are looking to build on this year’s success next term by improving the consistency of events and attracting more people to the society.
There has also been speculation of a FOSIS national ranking (thus far it has only be regional), which Mohamed jokingly suggests that the group would easily top – since many other Islamic societies have far more resources.
The society also wants to build on this year’s socials, which included laser quest for female members, and offer even more community building activities.
The group appear to be a relaxed and inclusive society and will be looking to replicate this year’s success by becoming more prominent in University life in years to come.
James Beaney
exeposedev 