KU graduate climbs Mount Snowden to raise money for charity

KU engineering graduate Mohamed Sghaier took part in a charity event over the weekend scaling Mount Snowden to raise money for a project helping orphans and children in need.

The student union officer teamed up with Islamic Relief for his expedition, which is organised annually by Kingston University Islamic Society (ISOC).

Islamic Relief is a faith-inspired humanitarian aid agency which helps transform the lives of the world’s most vulnerable people.

Sghaier travelled with 13 other students over the weekend to begin their two-day trek up the mountain.

The 24-year-old said: “These sorts of expeditions are both physically and mentally draining, but there’s beauty behind it. It makes you appreciate what you have in life, and ponder over the struggles that many people in need go through.

“Having other people on this hike is second to none. You will never get brotherhood like this. We all developed a bond, uniting with the same intentions.”

Prior to the trip, Sghaier was individually required to raise up to £250. He also helped to organise a variety of exciting fundraising events at the end of October 2020, such as a football tournament, bake sales and a charity dinner where items were auctioned throughout the night.

ISOC managed to raise a staggering £17,000 from that night alone, the largest sum raised by ISOC events.

On the trip, Sghaier posted a picture of himself in a t-shirt and mask as he signalled his solidarity with Uighur Muslims. More than one million men and women have been detained in the sprawling networks of camps.

He said: “The reason why I raised awareness is because the world continues to stay silent. We’ve been promised that history won’t repeat itself, however the world is turning a blind eye.

“We’ve seen evidence where Uighurs are being forced to denounce their religion, some have been subjected to rape and murder. How can we sit here and do nothing? We, the people, need to use social media platforms and project our voice for the voiceless.”

Sghaier aspires to continue to help the oppressed as he set up two of his very own fundraising organisations. The charity, Al Ameen Foundation, was founded two years ago. Its aim is to help reduce food poverty internationally. Sghaier raised £2,000 for Somalis that have struggled to get access to food and water during the first spring lockdown. it is a prospering charity which embeds the same principles that Islamic Relief holds.

He said: “Being charitable is an obligation, it’s a pillar in our faith, and if we are able to, then we all have a responsibility to help.”