A SPECIAL event was held today (Wednesday, October 31) to give thanks to all who have supported an organisation set up to encourage young Muslim women to integrate in the wider community.

Women Learning Together is an initiative set up by Kauser Hussain to build the confidence of young Muslim women and to inspire them to communicate and participate within their local communities.

She was inspired to set up the organisation following the death of her sister in 2000.

She said: “My sister, who died of cancer, could not speak English but was a very highly skilled woman. I realised there were many women like her, who needed mentoring and to be given the opportunity to be part of the wider community.

“This work is very important to me as it is creating a foundation that can be built upon by the younger generation. It is all about learning, sharing and getting involved in the community.”

Ms Hussain held a thanks giving lunch to show her appreciation for organisations that have supported hers, including the University of Teesside, Middlesbrough Council and Barnardos.

Wendy Shepherd from Barnardo’s attended the event.

She said: “I support this organisation because it is extremely important to ensure we work with young women from the BME community and give as many people as possible the opportunity to integrate with and understand different cultures.

“Any project that is trying to reach out to their own and other communities is vitally important in opening doors and cutting across cultural boundaries.”

Women Learning Together is holding a sponsored walk in Albert Park on November 18 to raise funds for Water Aid.  Anyone who would like more information about the organisation or the walk should text 07877-135878.