The evening of Thursday, 26th August 2010, at Jungle Braai, London, was an evening of restlessness—restlessness about the state of the world and the current Pakistan plight. A form of restlessness that demanded unity and passion, powerful enough to deliver change to our world, which it so desperately needs.

It is in this spirit that Restless Beings hosted their charity dinner for the victims of the Pakistan floods and raised a phenomenal £2,025 for DEC’s Pakistan appeal.

The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon speaking about Pakistan, asserted that “these unprecedented floods demand unprecedented assistance.” The international response to Pakistan’s plight has been fraught with delays and political tensions, failing to provide this so-called unprecedented assistance. However, individuals have stood up and claimed, enough is enough. The power vested in people to campaign for change and make a difference was clearly evident in the generous hearts of friends, humanitarians, and activists who came together to support Pakistan at Restless Beings’ charity appeal.

Co-founders and Co-directors of Restless Beings, Mabrur Ahmed and Rahima Begum, introduced the event, highlighting what Rahima described as the “holistic” nature of Restless Beings as an organisation. Despite not having any projects based in Pakistan, this event was an emergency response born out of necessity and common humanitarian grounds.

A short video was presented to guests, displaying the plight of the Pakistan victims, the global response, and DEC’s appeal. Following this, the evening’s guest speaker, Ajmal Masroor, took the floor.

Ajmal commanded the room with his inspiring words, highlighting the need for humanity to take heed of their moral, social, and religious duties to one another. His key message, along with the video and the evening in general, emphasized the importance of building and nurturing relationships with fellow human beings, reconnecting with our brethren, and ensuring that we do not fail one another in times of need.

It was with this powerful message that Ajmal began taking bids for donations just before iftar (breaking fast), resulting in an amazing £1,200 pledged in under fifteen minutes.

With this fantastic amount already raised, the evening continued with great food, networking, and further donations.

One of the evening’s key guests, Rooful Ali, founder of Emerald Network, an organisation striving to unite Muslims through networking, commented:

“It is wonderful to see Restless Beings expand beyond their projects to respond to the Pakistan floods disaster. Their ability to be selfless should be commended and inspire others, inshallah, to do similar events.”

Similarly, another guest, Taslimah Yousuf, remarked:

“These events are really worthwhile as passionate people can really make a difference.”

A Call for Action

The UN estimates that over 20 million people have been affected by the Pakistan floods, and this number continues to rise.

This is a call for action. A call for change.

Not just for Pakistan but for campaigning for justice, peace, and humanity across the world.

Restless Beings is a humanitarian effort that seeks to work with marginalised communities worldwide, advocating for the prevention and relief of poverty and actively promoting human rights.

You may view the Restless Beings film DEC Pakistan Floods Appeal which highlights the plight of the victims of the Pakistan Floods.

Why Attend?

Speakers

Networking and Discussions