The Dawoodi Bohras of Miami welcomed civic leaders, interfaith partners, and community members to their 3rd annual Iftar dinner, held at their community center during the holy month of Ramadan. Among the honored attendees were Mayor Joyce Davis of Dania Beach, Sergeant Eddy Hernandez of the Broward Sheriff’s Office, and President Saima Hussain of the Ismaili Community of Florida. The event highlighted shared values of interfaith dialogue, cultural understanding, and service.
Mayor Joyce Davis expressed her appreciation for the gathering, stating, "Honored to join our community for Breaking the Fast, sharing in a beautiful tradition of reflection, gratitude, and unity during Ramadan. We came together over delicious food, celebrating the richness of culture and faith that makes Dania Beach so special. Respect, understanding, and togetherness will always be our strength. We are Dania Beach United."
The event featured a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by welcoming remarks from Dawoodi Bohra community member Farida Ramakrawala, who emphasized the importance of building long-lasting partnerships: “It gives me great pleasure to see our members introducing themselves, exchanging contact information, and sharing our food and culture with others. We look forward to new friendships and strengthening our relationships with the City of Dania Beach.”
Husain Najmi, president of the Dawoodi Bohras of Miami, presented President Saima Hussain with a letter of condolence on the recent passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and congratulated the Ismaili community on the takht-Nashini of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V. He also conveyed a special message to all guests from the leader of the Dawoodi Bohra community, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin.
President Saima Hussain acknowledged the community’s hospitality, stating, “I can't believe how gracious everyone was and welcomed us with open arms. We truly are brothers and sisters in every way. Let's collaborate and come together to improve our community’s quality of life together.”
Mayor Davis added to the remarks, sharing about ongoing City initiatives, including preparations for an upcoming Dania Beach 5K event aimed at fostering community health and engagement.
Throughout the evening, guests learned about the Dawoodi Bohras’ initiatives in education, health, outreach, and their global community kitchen program. The "Book Nook," offered literature highlighting the community’s values, architecture, and social activities. Attendees received copies of the 2024 Project Rise Impact Report and publications on the community kitchen and Ashara Mubaraka commemorations.
Guests also enjoyed traditional Dawoodi Bohra cuisine, including gol pani, or jaggery-infused water, and mattho, a sweet yogurt drink, and engaged in lively conversations and networking.
The event concluded with attendees expressing their deep appreciation, many remarking they felt “as if they were with family.”
