Islamic Ladies Social and Cultural Association

(ILSCA)

Sisters Serving Humanity

One of ILSCA’s foundation members Sr. Zalayhar Hassanali, former First Lady of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago reflects on the formation and continuation of the Islamic Ladies Social and Cultural Association.

Sr. Zalayhar remembers how it all began in December 1970 …

 “As our women and girls became more educated and outspoken, they felt the need for a ladies organization where they could express themselves and educate themselves further.

After discussions with Dr. Joan Homaida Kazim it was decided to have an inaugural meeting and have some discussion with women from all over our beloved island at the new Gaylord Restaurant.

A heated discussion ensued on that day with more voices against than for the formation of an association. As Chairman on that occasion, I suggested that we have tea and talk later. A few of us were determined to pursue our goals and so a vibrant core group was formed later on.

Forty years later we look back at our achievements with pride and a sense of fulfillment. We have a long list of our activities with photographs in our archives.

May Allah grant us the strength and determination to continue the good work that the Islamic Ladies Social and Cultural Association is doing.”

Sr. Zalayhar Hassanali