- Community Trust joined Himmah to organise solidarity Iftar
- Forest forward Awoniyi attends event
- Awoniyi funds his own community event
This week, Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi funded a community Iftar in Nottingham during Ramadan as part of his dedication to giving back and commitment to the community.
To bring this vision to life, Nottingham Forest Community Trust, in collaboration with local charity Himmah, organised a solidarity Iftar at Himmah's Hub in Hyson Green.
The event welcomed 70 community members, uniting those observing Ramadan with others in an evening of togetherness and solidarity.
Himmah’s Hub, which serves as a communal space providing hot meals and support to local residents, provided a suitable setting for the evening and attendees from diverse faiths and backgrounds came together to break fast, highlighting the power of community spirit.
Taiwo personally attended the event, engaging with residents and sharing a meal with Nottingham locals, including community members of his home nation, Nigeria.
"I'm just sharing love to the community. Trying to spread love. To show this month that is so important to my Muslim brothers and also Lent month to the Christians.” Taiwo shared.
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"And is a way of giving back to the community and bringing everyone together [with] love. It doesn't matter if it's your time, if it's your resources.
"It's just a way that everyone can be powerful to each other and growing up that has been my goal. That's always been me to try and assist in my own little way.
“Also, I try to develop the next generation of kids as well and it's something that I hold dearly to me and which is very, very important to me."
Uzair Hasmi, representing Himmah, expressed gratitude for Taiwo’s generosity: “Himmah is a social justice organisation specialising in tackling poverty, racism, and educational inequalities in Nottingham.
“This is the one night of the week where we struggle to find a sponsor for our hot meal provisions.
“Himmah is very grateful for Taiwo’s support and generosity to fund an event for the community.
“Thank you, Taiwo.”
Taiwo’s dedication to community support extends beyond Nottingham. In his home country of Nigeria, he oversees the Taiwo Awoniyi Foundation, which focuses on empowering young people through education and football development.
This event marks another successful collaboration between Nottingham Forest Community Trust and Himmah, following previous initiatives such as providing essential items to those in need over Christmas and supporting a solidarity fast at the City Ground earlier this month.
