At the launch of Islam Awareness Week in Wellington, NZ, last month, IofC NZ was presented with the annual Harmony Award by the Federation of Islamic Associations in NZ (FIANZ). Congratulating IofC NZ, the CEO Sultan Eusoff said it was 'in recognition of (IofC's) dedication and sincerity to create sustainable peace and harmony in our lives and our surroundings by connecting people of all religions, races and cultures'.

Chaired by the Saudi Arabian Ambassador, those attending included the Mayor of Wellington, Muslim, Jewish and Christian clergy, diplomats, local councillors and representatives from Police and the Department of Ethnic Affairs.

IofC's interaction with the Muslim community has grown over recent years, primarily through Sultan and his wife, Alimah. Following the visit of IofC International President Omnia Marzouk in 2015, he arranged a showing of The Imam and the Pastor for members of the Wellington Abrahamic Council, of which he is Muslim co-chair. Muslim women have taken part in Creators of  Peace Circles, with one attending the Living Peace conference.

IofC NZ and FIANZ jointly sponsored Khadar Abdulaziz to represent NZ at the Asia-Pacific Youth Conference (APYC) in Bandung in August. 'The trip was the best thing I have done in my life time', wrote Khadar afterwards. Growing up in Somalia he found it challenged him towards 'healing and moving on, not holding on to the past that was slowly killing me inside'.

'The quiet time was the best though I found it tough, testing, painful and difficult. Letting the emotions come out, the sadness, happiness, anger, rage, joy and love. Listening to your head, heart, and writing down the ideas.... Finally, reading it again to remember'.

At the award ceremony (from front left): Pres of FIANZ, Hazim Arafeh, Saudi Ambassador Al-Johani, Mayor Celia Wade-Brown. Sultan Eusoff stands behind the Ambassador.