Inspiring Young Hearts Through Khoja History and Heritage

In line with the objectives of the Africa Federation Archives Section to engage the younger generation and nurture in them an appreciation for our history and heritage, the Section hosted the students of Guiding Minds Academy for a special storytelling session titled “My Khoja Story – My Roots, My Pride.”

Held at the AFED Archives Gallery on 20th November 2025, the event provided the children with a meaningful introduction to the richness of Khoja heritage, highlighting the values, traditions and lived experiences that continue to shape and guide the community across generations.

The session was led by Sr. Riffat Zahra Jabir, guiding the young learners to explore their roots from the early beginnings of our community in India and continuing through the many challenges that shaped our community. The children also learned about the determination with which our elders later migrated to East Africa and how they went on to build mosques, madrasahs and jamaats with unity, devotion and hard work.

The stories of community figures such as Dewji Jamaal, Haji Naji and Haji Ali Nathoo were shared to highlight qualities of service, wisdom and sincerity that have shaped generations. The children were reminded that they are the next chapter of this beautiful journey and the inheritors of qualities such as kindness, bravery, generosity and a deep love for the Ahlulbayt (a).

Guiding Minds Academy expressed their appreciation to the AFED Archives Section for hosting the visit and for creating an engaging, meaningful experience for the students. They noted that the display at the Archives Gallery helped the children better understand their roots, feel proud of their identity and recognise the sacrifices that built the community they belong to.

The Africa Federation Archives Section extends its gratitude to Sister Safiya Jusab and the Guiding Minds team for their visit and looks forward to welcoming more students in the future, Insha’Allah.

SECRETARIAT

ARCHIVES SECTION OF THE AFRICA FEDERATION

20^th December 2025