Staff Reporter – The Fordsburg Independent
In an inspiring act of generosity, the Fordsburg Muslim Youth Organisation (FMYO) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to supporting those in need.
On the morning of October 11, 2024, a heartwarming message lit up the phone of Shakiera Tayob, Owner and Editor-in-Chief of the Fordsburg Independent Newspaper, who is well-known for her extensive charity work within the community. The message contained proof of payment from FMYO, covering the college fees of Ra’eesah Haet, a mother and student from Vrededorp who had been struggling financially to continue her education.
Ra’eesah, a 33-year-old mother of two, is pursuing a teaching degree via distance learning at Stadio College. Despite her commitment to her studies and the support of her family, financial difficulties threatened to derail her academic journey. As the sole breadwinner, Ra’eesah juggles a full-time job, the care of her children, and her studies. Compounding her challenges, her son requires additional care due to ADHD and vision problems, necessitating regular hospital visits and specialist attention.
Faced with the possibility of abandoning her dream, Ra’eesah reached out to Shakiera, explaining her plight. Recognising the transformative power of education and the potential impact of Ra’eesah’s future as a teacher, Shakiera contacted Yousef Cajee, a prominent member at FMYO.
Thanks to FMYO’s intervention, Ra’eesah’s dream of becoming a teacher is back within reach. She now has the opportunity to complete her studies, and both the FMYO and Fordsburg Independent Newspaper team members are hopeful that she will live up to the expectations and she will seize this rare opportunity. Ra’eesah’s determination, combined with FMYO’s support, sets the stage for a promising future.
“This is an incredible opportunity that not many are lucky enough to receive,” said Shakiera. “We all believe Ra’eesah will rise to the challenge, complete her degree, and go on to inspire the next generation of teachers and learners.”
FMYO’s involvement in this case is part of their broader mission to assist those in need across a wide range of areas. Established in 1959, FMYO has become a vital pillar in the community. Their work is supported through various funds such as their Zakaat Fund which Provides essential aid to destitute Muslims, ensuring they can sustain themselves and their families.
FMYO’s Welfare Division plays a crucial role in supporting underprivileged families through both Zakaat and Lillah initiatives. The Zakaat Fund provides essential aid to destitute Muslims, ensuring they can sustain themselves and their families with dignity. One of FMYO’s largest efforts is its Ramadhan Zakaat Hamper Drive, which is among the biggest in Gauteng, delivering food and essential supplies to families in need. Beyond seasonal drives, FMYO offers ongoing monthly support, distributing both Zakaat and Lillah food parcels to alleviate hunger and poverty. The Lillah Fund, meanwhile, supports charitable projects undertaken purely for the pleasure of the Almighty, furthering FMYO’s commitment to uplifting those in need.
FMYO’s commitment to dignity extends even further through its Burial Services, which operate 24/7 across Johannesburg and the Greater Johannesburg area. FMYO provides hearses and ensures that families have access to fully equipped ghusal facilities, including their primary one in Mayfair and several others across Johannesburg. This service eases the burden on bereaved families, ensuring that burial processes are conducted with care and efficiency.
FMYO’s Cemetery Maintenance Projects provide critical upkeep at Newclare and West Park Cemeteries. Their work includes cleaning, grass cutting, improving signage, and installing lighting, all aimed at maintaining the dignity of these sacred spaces. They continue to innovate with new projects, such as paving areas around graves to ensure accessibility for all
One of FMYO’s most groundbreaking initiatives is its Medical Supplies Fund, established in 2019. This pioneering program provides essential medical equipment—such as hospital beds, drip stands, wheelchairs, commodes, walkers, bath seats, and oxygen concentrators—free of charge to all communities. With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, FMYO’s medical efforts expanded rapidly, and they now proudly own over 130 oxygen concentrators. This initiative has been a lifeline for many families who would otherwise struggle to access such critical resources.
By continuing to emphasize these vital services, we can ensure that FMYO’s work reaches a broader audience, encouraging more people to contribute to their noble causes. Donations to these funds can be made directly through the account details provided below, and with every contribution, more lives like Ra’eesah’s can be transformed for the better.
FMYO Donation Details:
- Zakaat (FNB – 252505)
Acc no – 628 4996 4839 - Lillah (FNB – 252505)
Acc no – 628 4996 4805 - Cemetery Maintenance (FNB – 252505)
Acc no – 628 8840 8426 - Medical Supplies (FNB – 252505)
Acc no – 628 4996 4821
For more information, or to get involved in FMYO’swork, you can contact:
Amien Minty – 083 375 2078
Riaz Moolla – 083 456 7867
Mohammed Laher – 083 682 1960
Iqbal Ganie – 082 457 6000
Ridwaan Laher – 076 788 7598
Yousuf Cajee – 082 555 5469
Riaz Moola – 072 772 4786 (For medical assistance)
FMYO’s efforts continue to touch lives across South Africa, embodying the spirit of community, compassion, and care that is so desperately needed today. Their work not only addresses immediate needs but also empowers individuals to build better futures.
