Islamabad, Tilford, 2 November 2025: A delegation of team members and volunteers from Humanity First UK, comprising both men and women, had the honour of a mulaqat with Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih Vaa.
The meeting commenced as Huzooraa graced the hall with his presence and extended his salaam. The team members then had the opportunity to introduce themselves one by one, detailing their various capacities and roles within the charity. Following the introductions, Huzooraa graciously granted them permission to ask questions for their guidance.
On Gaza’s future and Humanity First’s role
A team member sought Huzoor’saa perspective on the future of Gaza, the wider implications for the region and what impact Humanity First could continue to make in the face of such suffering.
Huzooraa replied that he has already spoken on this matter. He stated that the oppression being inflicted is not likely to end; rather, it appears set to continue, as Israel is still carrying out its attacks. Therefore, he advised, the Humanity First team should continue their noble service just as they have been doing. He noted that the head of Humanity First provides him with regular reports and he, in turn, imparts guidance and instructions, which they should continue to follow.
Huzooraa expressed his heartfelt prayers for the Humanity First volunteers who are working on the ground in Palestine. He prayed that Allah the Almighty grants them the capacity to serve effectively and that He keeps them safe, acknowledging that they are working in extremely dangerous and life-threatening conditions. He concluded with a sombre outlook, stating that he does not foresee any respite for the region in the near future and that the conflict will likely continue.
Economic pressure and the role of food banks
Another team member noted that due to increasing economic pressure and the rising cost of living, even middle-income families are now turning to food banks. He asked how Humanity First can meet this growing crisis with its own limited resources.
Huzooraa advised that they should continue to do the good work that is possible within the limits of their available resources. He noted that, by the grace of Allah, he understands that the Humanity First food banks have not yet faced any significant food shortages. He did express a slight concern that, at most, right-wing elements might raise objections about “Asians” running food banks, but setting that aside, he stated that, insha-Allah, the good work will continue to be blessed and should carry on.
On using music in promotional videos
A marketing professional on the team explained that humanitarian work requires creativity to engage donors. He asked if, in this competitive environment, Humanity First is permitted to use background music or sounds to make their promotional videos more engaging.
Huzooraa enquired if they were currently unable to raise funds without resorting to music. The member clarified that there is significant competition from other charities. Huzooraa replied that, alhamdulillah, Humanity First’s funds are still being raised, even without music. He reminded them that there was a time when it was difficult to raise even ten thousand pounds, yet now, by Allah’s grace, they manage a very large budget, all without such means.
Huzooraa advised them to let the current, blessed system continue. He clarified his previous guidance on this matter, stating that he had permitted a very light, permissible background sound, such as a subtle hum or a nazm, if they felt it was necessary for social media advertisements. However, this did not extend to music. He stressed that our purpose is to teach the world our values, not to adopt their ways.
Learning from the contentment of disaster victims
A volunteer shared his observation from serving in disaster zones, noting his deep admiration for the contentment and dignity shown by the victims, who remain steadfast even after losing everything.
Huzooraa replied that if such people demonstrate contentment, it is a sign of their faith. He then guided that if the volunteers are so inspired by them, this inspiration should be channelled into two actions. Firstly, it should motivate them to serve even more and to spend more of their funds on helping these noble people.
Secondly, they must use this lesson to train Ahmadis back home. They should explain to people that while these victims have nothing and do not complain, we in the West become agitated if we miss a burger or if the price of groceries increases by a few pence. If we are truly inspired, we should learn from their example of sacrifice.
Huzooraa advised the fundraisers in the team to use these powerful emotional stories. By conveying the dignity and contentment of the poor, they can awaken the emotions of donors, who will be motivated to give in sacrifice for those who are so much more patient, despite having so much less.
On the revelation ‘Your time shall not be wasted’
A team member quoted the revelation of the Promised Messiahas, “You are the revered Messiah whose time shall not be wasted,” (Tadhkirah [English], Qadian, 2019, p. 528) and asked how the Humanity First team can apply this lesson to effectively utilise their own minimal resources.
Huzooraa explained that by using their resources for the benefit of people and the service of mankind, they are already acting upon this. The mission of the Promised Messiahas was the service of humanity and by sacrificing for the poor and deprived, they are fulfilling this purpose.
The team member elaborated, asking if, beyond just delivering services (putting out the fire), they could engage in advocacy to prevent the fire from starting in the first place. Huzooraa replied that we do not possess any physical or political power to engage in that kind of advocacy. Our role is to help the poor within our limited means, providing them with food, shelter, clothing and whatever other aid we can extend.
Beyond this, he advised, we must pray for the needy and ensure that wherever we are running a project, we serve the people with absolute honesty and with our whole hearts. This is the role we can and must play.
The role of women in disaster zones
A female team member asked what the role of women should be in natural disaster situations and how Humanity First should facilitate their training.
Huzooraa stated that their role should be the same as the men’s and their training should be the same. He guided that female volunteers are often essential in disaster zones, as affected women have many specific needs that only other women can understand and fulfil. If there are courageous women who wish to go, they should be allowed to, though he advised that very young girls should not be sent. Instead, groups should be formed under the leadership of mature, experienced women.
Huzooraa stressed that regardless of who goes, the training itself should be available to all women. They must be trained in disaster relief management and have the necessary courage, skills and expertise. When asked about an age limit, Huzooraa said that while anyone under 18 is not permitted, the key is maturity, which would entail those 25 or above. He added that practical and safety considerations are paramount, including family permission and signing a waiver acknowledging the inherent risks.
Huzooraa then gave the powerful example of the Sahabiat or female Companions who participated in the early battles of Islam. They did not ask for guarantees of safety. He narrated the incident of a female Companion, who, veiled and dressed for battle, rode out alone to rescue her brother. The Muslim men, astonished by her valour, mistook her for a male warrior, but she refused to unveil herself. It was only later that they discovered a woman had performed this heroic feat.
While the nature of struggle has changed, the spirit of sacrifice remains the same: to serve the poor and needy despite the risks.
Lessons from the Companions of Badr
A team member noted that Huzooraa is currently delivering a series of Friday sermons on the lives of the Companions of Badr. He asked for guidance on how Humanity First volunteers can adopt their high standards in their own service to humanity.
Huzooraa guided that every sermon contains numerous examples of their high character. He advised the team to listen to the sermons, note down the specific incidents related to their service to mankind and then implement those lessons in their own work. Huzooraa referred back to the example of the female Companion he had just given, explaining that this is also a lesson from that era. Today, the jihad is not fought with a sword, but the spirit of sacrifice remains the same: to help the poor and needy despite the dangers. He advised that all workers should strive to use their full potential, taking it to its maximum level, in the service of humanity, just as the esteemed Companions did.
The mulaqat then concluded and Huzooraa took his leave.
(Summary prepared by Al Hakam)
