As Health Promotion Lead for the Muslim Doctor’s Association, a role I’ve held for nearly four years, I’ve embraced countless opportunities for growth. This year, I had the privilege of joining the LEAP Programme’s Prophetic Leadership weekend retreat, held in a serene natural setting at the end of October 2024.
Being four years into a leadership role can feel brief or long, exciting or daunting—it depends on the day. Personally, I’m still discovering my path, facing moments of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Attending the retreat in such a peaceful, energizing natural environment shifted my understanding of good leadership as a Muslim, inspiring me, God willing, to aspire to embody the 11 Prophetic Leadership Qualities. As Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said, “All of you are shepherds, and each of you is responsible for his flock.” This gathering reminded me of our duty to honor that role with accountability and care.
Reflecting on the weekend, I realize words can’t fully capture how uplifting and enriching the experience was. It was heartening to witness the organizing committee embody the 7Cs of compassionate leadership. In this supportive environment, nature’s presence seemed to infuse our interactions with energy. Abdullah’s humour and confidence enlivened the activities, while Yahya’s compassion and generosity showed in moments like sharing leftover treats with trick-or-treaters who visited the retreat venue. Maya’s curiosity brought stillness and reflection as she captured the weekend’s highlights through her lens, and Nayla’s courage glowed in the personal story she shared with me.
The facilitators, Sheikh Hussein Shefaar and Sister Mahmoda Begum, skillfully connected academic concepts to life experiences and Islamic teachings. Their words, woven seamlessly with nature’s tranquility around us, made every session impactful and engaging. Among the many lessons that resonated was Sheikh Hussein’s example of guiding others even in one’s absence and Sister Mahmoda’s exercise on identifying our “board of consultation” in life.
Beyond the learning, the weekend offered unforgettable camaraderie. Sharing vulnerabilities around the campfire, engaging in games, and stepping into new challenges like high ropes and archery with the support of brothers and sisters I met was deeply energising.
I feel blessed to have been chosen to experience the LEAP programme retreat this year. I return with a full heart, recharged by faith, nature and beautiful souls striving to grow as a Muslim and a leader.