The Stevenage branch of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) proudly hosted the Voices for Peace event at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Stevenage on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. The purpose of this event was to raise Voices for Peace in light of His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad’s message to the world – to call for a ceasefire, establish absolute justice and to save innocent human lives. His Holiness launched the Voices for Peace initiative and since members of the community have been holding events across the world including at the Houses of Parliament where the Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, Husam Zomlot was also present and shared his words on the urgent need for a ceasefire.

The event drew approximately 80 guests, including notable figures such as the Mayor of Stevenage, Myla Arceno, Deputy Mayor Jim Brown, and Councillor Daniel Allen, Chair of the Council.

Distinguished speakers enriched the gathering, including Hiba Tul Mohsin Abid, Vice President of AMYA; President Nathanial Chell of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; Pastor Kojo Wood from the Elim Pentecostal Church in Stevenage; and Mayor of Stevenage Myla Arceno. The keynote address was delivered by Imam Tahir Khalid, who eloquently discussed Islamic principles on warfare and emphasised the sanctity of innocent life, likening its loss to the loss of all humanity.

The session concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Saeed Nazir, President of AMYA Hertfordshire, followed by a silent prayer and refreshments.

The event served as a beacon of harmony and unity, transcending cultural and religious boundaries to foster understanding and goodwill within the community.