In Good Faith #46 - How Can We Help Britain Take Faith More Seriously?
Mar 13, 2026
Sohail Hanif, CEO and scholar of Islamic law focusing on structured community solutions. Saleha Islam Bukhari, educator and Sharia consultant who answers public questions on faith. Omar Salha, cultural diplomat who runs the Ramadan Tent Project to spark invitation. Zia Salik, charity leader with expertise in humanitarian mobilisation. They debate belonging, public narratives, invitation through Ramadan, empathy-led practice, and place-based community coordination.
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Faith Needs A Clear National Story
- Zara Mohammed argues faith is already discussed publicly but the real issue is defining the relationship between state, society and faith to shape a national story of belonging.
- She warns Muslims risk being seen as extremes and urges reclaiming a middle-path narrative that shows belonging and problem-solving.
Invite People Into Ramadan Spaces
- Omar Salha urges practicing invitation and cultural diplomacy: actively invite non-Muslims into Ramadan and faith spaces to create dialogue and soften hearts.
- He recommends curating welcoming public events like Ramadan festivals and open iftars to showcase transformative faith-in-action.
Empathy Wins Hearts More Than Argument
- Saleha Islam Bukhari highlights empathy as the centrepiece: embodying prophetic character and empathy invites curiosity about Islam more than rhetoric.
- She cites a Canary Wharf lunch where humane presentation of Ramadan prompted managers to ask how to support Muslim colleagues.