The Youth Iftar & Diversity Dinner, organised by the Dialogue Society North East Youth Platform, brought together around 80 young people from local universities and colleges for an evening full of energy, connection, and shared experience. Hosted at St James’s United Reformed Church in Newcastle, the event created a vibrant and inclusive space for young individuals from diverse faith and non-faith backgrounds to come together during the holy month of Ramadan.
Designed to encourage youth engagement, the programme successfully blended meaningful reflection with interactive and enjoyable activities. The evening began with welcoming remarks by Youth Lead Tarik Akarli, followed by a theme video on Building Community Trust, setting the tone for the gathering. Participants enjoyed a variety of engaging elements including a live sand art performance, an informative presentation on Ramadan, and fun, team-based activities such as tower building, Kahoot quiz, and “Pass the Parcel,” which created a lively and dynamic atmosphere throughout the event.
As the time for breaking the fast approached, attendees experienced the recitation of the adhan (call to prayer), marking the moment to break the fast together. This was followed by a shared iftar meal accompanied by live music, allowing participants to connect and socialise in a relaxed setting. The evening concluded with reflections, table discussions, and a group family photo, leaving participants with a strong sense of belonging and community.
The event stood out as a unique youth-led initiative in the region, providing a valuable opportunity for young people to engage in dialogue, celebrate diversity, and build friendships across different backgrounds. It highlighted the importance of creating inclusive spaces where the next generation can come together, learn from one another, and contribute to a more cohesive and understanding society.
