What have been your highlights of 2023?

One of my biggest highlights was going on deployment to Bangladesh. Meeting the children and witnessing the poverty they lived in firsthand was eye-opening, but it reminded me why I teamed up with Charity Right in the first place.

 

Back in the UK, I loved doing school workshops. We tend to neglect art in our faith, even though we have a rich history of it, so it was incredible to share it with the next generation. And they love it too – whenever you do something creative and off-script, they express themselves and have a really good time!

 

Still, I’d still say my biggest achievement this year is raising over £36,000 for Palestine. I moved away from promoting my own nasheeds and focused entirely on supporting Palestine, hoping to reach £50,000 by the end of January. What’s happening there is a great tragedy, and we have a duty to do whatever we can to help.

 

What were some of the biggest challenges you encountered this year?

Fundraising has been difficult. I’m a singer, songwriter, creative artist – not a fundraiser. It takes a lot of patience and persistence, but I just put my faith into Allah SWT and call out to people to try and raise money.

 

Finding time to fundraise as a full-time recording artist makes it even harder though! After all, if I don’t keep recording and maintaining my brand, Charity Right wouldn’t have a brand ambassador. Still, charity is a pillar of our faith so it’s a challenge I enjoy.

 

How have you developed as a brand ambassador for Charity Right?

Since becoming a brand ambassador, I’ve gone from a father-of-two to a father-of-three, so I’m even more determined to do my best!

 

I tend to push myself in every aspect of my life – as a father, husband, son, friend, but especially as a Muslim. I might fail at times, but with perseverance and support from Allah SWT, I keep striving for excellence.

 

What advice would you give to those who are new to fundraising or want to step up their game?

To aspiring fundraisers, my advice is simple: be sincere and persistent. Purify your intentions if you’re doing it for the sake of Allah SWT, and never forget you’re handling people’s Amanah. But most importantly – never give up. If you’re ever stuck, just ask the incredible team at Charity Right for help.

 

I’ve found the best route to success is to set yourself several small targets. Before long, they accumulate into something incredible.

 

What plans have you got in store for 2024?

We’ve got a cool challenge planned for the first seven days of Ramadan that I’m looking forward to, as well as a video concept. However, the conflict in Palestine has thrown everything in the air, so plans may change.

 

My main goals for 2024 are to continue working hard with pure intentions to raise money and strive for a brighter future for those who need it most.