With the joint cooperation of the Native European Muslims Assembly «NEMA», which comes under the auspices of the Federation of Islamic Organizations in Europe «FIOE», the International Association for New Muslims «IANM» organised the First European Convention for the families of new Muslims. The convention was held during the Easter holiday from 10th till the 13th of April 2009 in Istanbul, Türkiye.

This convention is an important link in NEMA’s series of programs concerning the mentoring and educational programs for the new Muslims of Europe. From a social perspective, this event is an opportunity for making acquaintances, communicating with one another, and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood between the new Muslims in an atmosphere of friendliness, as one European family, not merely segmented groups; this alone is a vital necessity for this segment of society, which usually lives in an atmosphere of seclusion in the midst of their native European societies.

As from the educational perspective, this convention nourishes the ideological and educational aspects of the new Muslims through the activities which include numerous lectures and forums.

Choosing Turkey as the place of this convention was in order to project the bright aspects of Islamic civilisation through the landmarks and monuments that stand as a witness of the important contributions made by Muslims throughout history, and in return strengthening the feelings of esteem and belonging to Islam, as both a religion and a civilisation. Keeping that in mind, we made sure that the event includes excursions to the historic monuments of Istanbul, in order that the new Muslims may interact intellectually and spiritually with this unique experience.

The segments of the convention were held in the outskirts of Istanbul to provide the families with an atmosphere of privacy and relaxation, while providing all the logistic needs to hold lectures and meetings. The hotel also provided various recreational activities, along with a private beach on the Sea of Marmara, and provided a splendid atmosphere for both adults and children alike. The convention was specifically held for the new Muslims and their families, and those who are involved in the field of dawah. The expected attendance was a hundred people.

The IANM, along with NEMA, works on achieving a number of aims by holding this event:

1. Strengthening the bonds of brotherhood between the European new Muslims, both as individuals and families, while establishing a network of contacts across Europe.

2. Providing an educational and spiritual package, through lectures and interactive activities.

3. Consolidating the feeling of esteem and belonging to Islam, both as a religion and a civilisation, by making excursions to the landmarks of Islamic civilisation.

The secretary-general of the IANM Mr. Khalid Al-Romaih said, ‘Every year, the IANM holds more than one convention in Europe with the cooperation of the Islamic establishments in Europe, while supporting them in management and with expertise, following up its programs from the stage of planning up until the period of feedback afterwards. This convention is considered our first in Turkey, and we chose it to be in a location where much local and international tourism takes place: around the outskirts of Istanbul, in order to attract the new Muslims, both youths and families, to participate in the daily activities it provides. This includes educational activities, contests, and beneficial social meetings starring those interested in the field, specialists in teaching and talented youths. The star guest shall be his honour Dr. Jamal Badawi, who is a professor of Islamic studies in Canada, and also a prominent daiyah. Such a personality receives great approval of the new Muslims and is able to answer questions regarding Islamic jurisprudence (i.e. Fiqh) and refute stereotypes directed towards Islam, in a professional, intellectual manner. This alone consolidates the new Muslims faith and makes them more confident in integrating and positively interacting with their European societies.’

The Secretary-general also said, ‘These conventions are held on strong pillars, the most important of which is: Choosing the appropriate methods, including the appropriate date and the location, keeping in mind that people would be on holidays, during which many of them resort to recreational locations far away from their homes; and strengthening both the team spirit and the bonds of brotherhood between them (i.e. the New Muslims) by advocating positive values.’

Mr. Al-Romaih emphasised that the number of gatherings the IANM has already held is 28, as either conventions or camps, at different scales per the number of participants. He noted that the IANM is always keen to sponsor and support such events and programs because it serves as an excellent hub for new Muslims throughout the world. All this occurred by the grace of Allah, and then by the support of the Muslim World League and its secretary-general his honour Dr. Abdullah Al-Turky.