Over 3,000 Young Muslims Gather for National Convention in Tilford
More than 3,000 young members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK gathered at the Mubarak Mosque for the 2026 National Waqf-e-Nau Ijtema — an annual faith-based convention focused on nurturing the next generation of Muslim leaders through education, service and spiritual development.
The event brought together participants from across the UK, reflecting growing enthusiasm among young people committed to faith, service and community.
‘Waqf-e-Nau‘ is an initiative of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in which families voluntarily dedicate their children to a lifelong commitment of serving faith and humanity. Young members of the scheme are encouraged to develop strong moral values, pursue excellence in education, and contribute positively to society through service and leadership.
The annual convention provides an opportunity for these young people to come together, strengthen their understanding of their responsibilities, and deepen their connection with their faith.
The girls convention took place on Saturday 26th April, attended by over 1,700 participants, with a variety of activities and workshops tailored towards personal development, moral training, and spiritual education in a supportive and engaging environment. The boys convention was held the next day and was attended by over 2100.
A Day of Learning, Reflection and Inspiration
This year’s convention centred on the theme “Prayer: The Foundation of Faith”, with sessions designed to help participants understand the importance of regular prayer and spiritual discipline in everyday life.
The programme was tailored for different age groups.
For younger children, activities blended faith with creativity and teamwork, including science demonstrations, educational quizzes, interactive workshops, and service-based challenges designed to build confidence and curiosity.
Older participants attended seminars and discussions exploring topics such as:
- the importance of faith in modern life,
- personal responsibility and service,
- responding thoughtfully to contemporary challenges,
- and the role of media and education in shaping future generations.
Participants also heard personal stories from converts to Islam, offering powerful reflections on faith, resilience and purpose.
His Holiness’ Keynote Address
A highlight of the convention was the concluding address delivered by Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Addressing the attendees gathered in Tilford, and thousands more watching globally via MTA International, His Holiness reflected on the spiritual and intellectual responsibilities of the next generation of Muslims. He emphasised that Waqf-e-Nau, those whose parents have dedicated them for the service of faith, are entrusted with a unique responsibility to uphold high moral standards, strengthen their connection with God, and serve humanity with sincerity and excellence.
“Treat your family with love and compassion and ensure that an atmosphere of loving affection remains present at all times within your home.“
A key focus of His Holiness’s address was the importance of education, rational thought, and the pursuit of scientific knowledge. He urged the youth to use their knowledge for good and aim for excellence in their chosen fields.
“Regardless of your chosen path, you must strive to achieve its pinnacle.”
Investing in the Next Generation
Events such like this National Youth Convention reflect the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s long-standing commitment to investing in young people, equipping them not only with religious knowledge, but also with the values of compassion, discipline, public service and responsible citizenship.
As attendance continues to grow year on year, the convention remains an important platform for inspiring young British Muslims to contribute positively to their communities and wider society.
