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Assalam o alaikum. My name is Qulsoom Fatima and I am currently a first year student studying 'Asia Pacific Studies' hoping to become the next Prayer Spaces Sister In Sha Allah. Prayer spaces in general are sacred to the Muslim community as it's not only a place to pray but also a place to socialise with our fellow Muslim sisters. Hence, the responsibility of making sure the prayer spaces (like the Green Room) on our campus are well-maintained and a comfortable place to socialise, take a break, and of course, to connect with Allah (swt) is extremely important. I believe that I will do a good job as, before coming to Leeds, I would help out at my local mosque and other events (which I still do help out in) and this (as well as hearing of other happenings across the country) has made me realise even further how important keeping the place of worshipping Allah (swt) well-maintained and comfortable is. If I am elected to become the Prayer Spaces Sister InShaAllah, I will make sure that the prayer spaces on campus are well-maintained for the Muslim community here. JazakAllah Khair for considering me for the Prayer Spaces Sister.

Salaam guys! I'm Aaya, and I'd love to continue the role I've had as Prayer Spaces sister since December this year. The prayer spaces are soo central to our experience as Muslim students - even if we spend 5 to 10 minutes in them, they make it so much easier to stick to your deen in Uni. Some things I'd like to do this year:

• Work with the Union to improve and expand our current spaces, make them more spacious and comfortable - In line w this, set up an anonymous suggestions system so that you guys can let us know what you need!
• Complete a full inventory, so that we know exactly what's lacking and what is needed to provide for you
• Keep the prayer spaces directory we produced up to date to help Muslim students always know the nearest prayer space. I know the locations can get a bit techy sometimes.
• Have my grandad's Quranic translation (Abdel Haleem) in each prayer space Inshallah! It is beautifully clear and simple, which really helps connect your heart and mind to God’s words and your prayer more deeply. Honestly makes me sob. We secured the budget this year for it so, hamdoulillah, all that's left is the execution.

In general, I just want to give back to the Muslim community. Having had a rough start in Leeds, I know I’d be lost without the ISOC. It’s genuinely kept me sane, on the siraat when I was lacking and given me a big family away from home. In improving the places in which we pray, talk, learn, cry together (and some play WWE) in, I hope to strengthen our bonds even more Inshallah. Jzk and Salaam :)