Islamic Association opens facility for learning, connection and growth

The Manitoba Islamic Association recently held a grand opening ceremony for its new Institute of Knowledge and Community Centre, marking a significant milestone for the city’s Islamic community. The $7 million facility, located in Waverley West, has been hailed as a miracle by community leaders for its potential to foster learning, growth, and community bonding.

The opening event attracted over 100 members of the Islamic community, who celebrated the occasion with a ceremonial triple-ribbon cutting. The ribbon-cutting was performed by a young community member reciting Quranic verses, as well as dignitaries and elders of the community. The event was deeply spiritual, with recitations of the Quran adding a solemn and reverential tone to the proceedings.

Delvinder Zameer, board chair of the Institute of Knowledge board, emphasized the significance of the facility, stating, “It is more than a building; it is a place where our children will learn, grow, build friendships, strengthen their faith, and create memories.” He went on to express his hope that the center will also serve as a gathering place for the broader community, encouraging connection and growth among Winnipeggers.

The facility will house an elementary school, accommodating students from various language backgrounds, including Arabic, English, and French. Additionally, it will include a community center and a daycare. These offerings reflect the community's commitment to providing a holistic environment where children can learn not just academic subjects but also values rooted in their faith.

For Jesse Reitberger, a father with two school-aged children, the opening of the facility is particularly meaningful. “I’ve got two kids,” he shared, “a first-grader and a third-grader, and as we move closer to the end of the city, we plan to bring them here.” He expressed gratitude for the facility’s ability to allow his family to maintain their faith-based educational values, stating, “It makes the transition easier for us, without the conflicting opinions that sometimes come with public education.”

Community scholar and leader Sheikh Ismail highlighted the community's collective effort that made the facility possible. He called for further ambitious projects, aiming to elevate the status of Muslim citizens within Manitoba and Canada. “As Muslim citizens of Manitoba, as Muslim citizens of Canada, we have to go to the next level,” he urged the audience, emphasizing the need for broader contributions to the province’s inclusive society.

Education Minister Tracy Schmidt praised the community’s collaborative spirit, noting that the successful purchase of the building and the establishment of the new school exemplify Manitoba’s education system’s emphasis on community involvement and relationships. “It’s about community and relationships,” Schmidt remarked, underscoring the event’s role in illustrating Manitoba’s commitment to inclusive education.

Winnipeg’s Mayor Scott Gillingham also acknowledged the association’s efforts, emphasizing the facility’s contribution to the city’s growth and diversity. “It speaks to the growth of Winnipeg and the diversity of our community,” he stated, highlighting the city’s motto of “one with the strength of many.” Gillingham reinforced Winnipeg’s dedication to fostering unity while celebrating its multicultural identity, reflecting the broader ideals that the Manitoba Islamic Association’s new institute represents.