The Bolles Muslim Student Association (MSA) hosted the organization's first ever Ramadan Iftar Dinner, held February 20 on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus. Families brought traditional Ramadan food from all over the Muslim world to celebrate the breaking of their daily fast at sunset, and donations were also collected for Feeding Northeast Florida to help local families facing hunger. 

Students decorated in Schultz Courtyard and Ulmer Hall to mark the start of the Islamic holy month, which began the evening of February 17 and will last until the Eid Al-Fitr celebration on March 20.  During Ramadan, observant Muslims abstain from all food and drink from before sunrise until sunset every day. The evenings are filled with special food, family gatherings and prayers throughout the month. 

MSA president and founder Zara Touheed ’28, who spearheaded the organization of the event, said it was a great opportunity to share her community with the Bolles student body and faculty.

“Mr. Forrester being there was a really great thing as well! I am really grateful I got to share and introduce my culture to people I haven't met before,” Touheed said.

MSA member Iman Mahamane ’28 also said she felt the event was a great way to bring people together and share a piece of her religion with the Bolles community.

Bolles upper school French and Arabic teacher Sara Phillips-Bourass, who sponsors the MSA, said it was exciting for the students to be able to organize an Iftar. 

“Ramadan is a very special time for the Muslim community, and it means a lot for them to be able to share it with the Bolles community,” she said. “We are hoping it will be the start of an annual tradition!"