Al-Qalam 
By Al-Qalam Reporter
In a world where economic challenges and unemployment persist, hope can often feel like a distant dream. But for some in Durban, that hope was reignited through the tireless efforts of the Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa (MYMSA). The organisation’s annual Project Hope programme, held from August 26 to 28 at the Al Ameen Masjid Hall in Chatsworth, provided vital skills training to people from all walks of life, equipping them with the tools they need to build a brighter future.
This year’s event was a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment, welcoming individuals of all ages and backgrounds. From senior citizens to the recently retrenched, from unemployed youth to women entering the workforce for the first time, Project Hope opened its doors to all, offering a safe and supportive environment to learn and grow. The programme was not limited to Muslim attendees, as the mosque’s management welcomed non-Muslims into the complex, earning praise and gratitude from the broader community.
“Over three days, participants were trained in essential skills needed to navigate the modern job market and entrepreneurial landscape. These included interview techniques, CV writing, drafting business plans, managing personal and business finances, and setting both vision and goals,” said Project Hope facilitator Rashid Chopdat.
He said for many, this training was a lifeline, providing the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue their ambitions.
“This year we introduced two new modules into this skills seminar. We did an introduction to Artificial Intelligence with some practical examples by a social media expert, and we gave guidelines on how to start up a business in terms of licensing, by-laws, and tax matters. The introduction of these new modules was particularly well-received, as participants recognised the importance of staying ahead in an increasingly digital world,” said Chopdat.
The intergenerational aspect of Project Hope added another layer of richness to the experience.“Seniors were very apprehensive, fearing that they may be ostracized by the younger generation. On the contrary, they got a lot of respect and affection from the young ones and the MYM team. We even had soccer players in attendance. They want to make their careers professional, and they attended to improve their skills,” said Chopdat.
As the programme drew to a close, the feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. The sense of empowerment that emerged from the event was palpable, as attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The AI session, in particular, was highlighted by many as a standout component of the programme.
“AI is a new thing, and many people still don’t understand it. For me, having an introduction to it was fantastic and something I learnt a lot from,” said attendee Veronica Appalsamy. Another attendee, Nasreen De Mar, said the organisers went above and beyond her expectations.
“I make dua that Allah will give them barakah and success to continue doing this programme in the future. They have given so much hope to women, and men, but I would say especially women. There were women from all walks of life—some are divorced, some lost their jobs—and they needed hope. The programme has given them the hope and confidence to realise their dreams and to achieve success in their lives,” said De Mar. For some, the impact of Project Hope was felt in very tangible ways.
De Mar shared how the financial management skills she gained during the programme had already begun to transform her life.
“Every month, I make a budget but never stick to it. Alhamdulillah, because of the programme, I made a budget and I stuck to it,” she said.
Another attendee, Nazmeera Amodgora, emphasised the programme’s value for both the unemployed and aspiring entrepreneurs.
“It covered aspects that an unemployed person or even a person starting a business would benefit from. An unemployed person can get tips on how to become a beneficial asset to a company, and even if a person is looking to start a business, they could gather so many ideas,” Amodgora said. Amodgora also reflected on the deeper lessons of humanity and humility that the event imparted.
“The speakers showed so much of this. Every speaker had so much respect; they made us understand ourselves better and made us feel seen. These types of programmes should be available more because they have the potential to change lives, to inspire, and empower.”
As the MYM plans to expand Project Hope to townships facing high unemployment, the impact of this initiative is set to grow even further.
For the many who attended this year’s programme, they said the skills, confidence, and hope they gained will undoubtedly continue to shape their lives in the years to come.
