#SRtRCSpotlight: Interfaith Community Iftars Bring People Together Across South Wales
This March saw Show Racism the Red Card Wales host their 4th annual community Iftars across South Wales.
During Ramadan 2025, a series of community interfaith Iftars were held bringing together people from all backgrounds to share in the spirit of unity and understanding. Hosted at Swansea City AFC, Cardiff City FC, Newport County AFC & the Dragons RFC, and the WRU, these events were supported by the Cosaraf Charitable Foundation and saw over 650 attendees come together to break their fast and foster interfaith dialogue.
One of the unique aspects of these gatherings was the opportunity for attendees to understand more about the religion of Islam and why Ramadan is such an important time in the Islamic calendar. It also gave attendees the opportunity to pray by the side of the pitch – a powerful symbol of faith and inclusion.
Each event featured guest speakers from the clubs talking about the work that is currently going on with the local community.
Young people’s voices were a key theme at the Newport County and Dragons RFC celebration featured students from Maindee Primary School, who showcased their understanding of the five pillars of Islam through a presentation to the attendees.
At the Cardiff City event, Dembo Jaiteh, a Cardiff City FC Academy player, hosted the event leading Q&A with participants from the Cardiff City Foundation Kicks programme and the players to highlight the strong connection between sports and community engagement. Additionally, several young people took on important roles throughout all the celebrations, either reading from the Quran or leading the Adhan (pronounced Az-aan) ‘Call to prayer’.
Local entrepreneur Ibby Abdi discussed his clothing brand IBY (Inspired By You) and its collaboration with Cardiff City. He emphasised the importance of creativity and the message behind his clothing, which incorporates elements from the streets of Cardiff in its design, emphasising the community and the club connecting as one.
There were special appearances and Q&A opportunities with Cardiff City FC Manager Omer Riza and players Yakou Meite and Yousef Salech, Newport County AFC, Noah Mawene and the Dragons RFC, Ashton Hewit. The players shared their experiences whilst playing sports and the importance of diversity within dressing rooms.
Among the key speakers were Shaykh Wasim Kempson who emphasised the importance of interfaith collaboration.
Shaykh Wasim Kempson said:
“I would like to thank you again for allowing me to be part of the work that you are doing, it reinforces with me the importance of such organisations and the work done.”
Dean Pymble, Campaign Manager for Wales at Show Racism the Red Card (SRtRC), shared his thoughts on the significance of these events:
“Sport has an incredible power to bring people together, break down barriers, and create a sense of belonging. But as much as sport unites us, it also reflects the challenges in society, Racism and discrimination still exist—on and off the pitch. That is why the work of Show Racism the Red Card and sporting partners are so important. We must continue to educate, to challenge, and to build a culture where discrimination has no place—not in sport, not in our stadiums, and not in our communities.
The Iftar celebrations were about more than breaking fast—they were about breaking barriers. It’s about sitting together, listening to one another, and building bonds of friendship and understanding. Wales is a country with a proud history of diversity, and events like these remind us of the strength found in that diversity.”
Community members also reflected on their experiences:
“I had the privilege of attending the Community Iftar event, and it was a truly inspiring experience. The event beautifully brought together people from diverse backgrounds, creating a welcoming space for unity, understanding, and mutual respect. It was more than just a meal it was a celebration of community spirit and solidarity.
The discussions and interactions throughout the evening highlighted the power of shared experiences in breaking down barriers and fostering meaningful connections. Events like this play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and challenging discrimination, reinforcing the values of respect and equality.”
“Fantastic event. A true celebration of diversity and faith, bringing together the local community. SRTRC are doing good work and working to break down barriers, promote awareness of Ramadan and importance of allyship in sport, to embrace and support all faiths including Islam”
“The Community Iftar event was a truly inspiring evening that brought people of all backgrounds together in a spirit of unity and understanding. It provided a safe and welcoming space for meaningful conversations, cultural exchange, and breaking down barriers. Events like this are vital in promoting inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and strengthening community cohesion. We wholeheartedly support the continuation and future funding of Community Iftars and thank Show Racism the Red Card for their commitment to this important work”
“As an eleven year old Muslim, I love the players participation in the Iftar event let alone give advice to young children I am looking forward to seeing the next years Iftar”
Show Racism the Red Card’s interfaith community Iftars served as a testament to the power of sports and its ability to bring communities together. By opening doors to people of all backgrounds, these events strengthened relationships, encouraged dialogue and celebrated the values of Ramadan – compassion, reflection, and togetherness.