Cambridge Community Iftar

Charlotte Smith, Social Action & Enrichment Coordinator, joined Year 13 student Safa Darr to attend the community event on behalf of Cambridge Citizens. Together, they led an activity known as a “Weaving Trust”, designed to encourage meaningful dialogue and strengthen relationships between people from different backgrounds.

The evening welcomed around 250 attendees from across the city, all coming together to break their fast and share in the spirit of Ramadan. Beyond the shared meal, the event placed a strong emphasis on dialogue and community-building. As part of the Weaving Trust activity, participants were invited to step outside their comfort zones by speaking to someone they had never met before. The first question posed was: “Why is the city important to you?” After exchanging perspectives, attendees were encouraged to find a new partner and discuss a second question: “What hopes do you have for the city’s future?”

The simple but powerful exercise sparked conversations throughout the Guildhall. The room quickly filled with the sound of laughter, thoughtful discussion and the buzz of new friendships forming.

The event highlighted how shared experiences, particularly sharing food during Ramadan, can create opportunities for understanding and connection across cultures, faiths and generations.

Reflecting on the experience, Charlotte Smith said: “It was a privilege to attend the event and encourage others to form new connections. The community iftar was about bringing people together, sharing food, and sharing dialogue. It was energising to learn about people from different backgrounds and to understand that together we can do good in the community.”

By the end of the evening, the message of the Iftar was clear: when people come together with openness and curiosity, meaningful dialogue can flourish, and stronger, more connected communities can grow.