Mrs Rubina Shaikh Asvat, president of SOHOM (Spouses of Heads of Missions), and spouse of the ambassador of Panama recently hosted an iftar dinner at the Hotel Mandarin Oriental, Msheireb Doha.
The iftar gathering was attended by several SOHOM members from various regions including Asia, Africa, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East, and by members of executive committee.
The holy month of Ramadan provides an opportunity for expatriates to learn about local religious rituals and culture as well as Muslim societies from other regions around the world.
Muslims around the world in the month of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observe self-discipline, unity,
fasting, prayer, charity, and empathy for those less fortunate.
The month concludes with the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr, three days of feast.
During the iftar and suhour, families and friends gather to share blessings of food and their company. Moreover, it provides an opportunity to know and understand more about the teachings of Islam, culture, as well as local cuisines.
The SOHOM Committee comprises the following executive members: Rubina Shaikh Asvat (Panama), President; Roughyatou Kane (Senegal), Vice President; Farhanah Suhaili (Brunei), Secretary; Sofia (Mozambique), Treasurer; Ezdehar (Syria), Arabic Translator; and Mariana (Portugal), French Translator.
Activities organised by SOHOM during the year have included welcoming new members and bidding farewell to outgoing members, monthly meetings hosted by Committee or Members, and organising humanitarian, social, cultural, and other group activities.
