sc_writers, Author at Small Changes MY https://smallchangesmy.org/author/sc_writers/ Small Changes, Big Differences Sat, 01 Mar 2025 04:40:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.8 https://smallchangesmy.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cropped-ORANGE-VERSION-32x32.png sc_writers, Author at Small Changes MY https://smallchangesmy.org/author/sc_writers/ 32 32 Words From The President: A Place for Changemakers https://smallchangesmy.org/words-from-the-president-a-place-for-changemakers/ https://smallchangesmy.org/words-from-the-president-a-place-for-changemakers/#respond Sat, 01 Mar 2025 03:20:21 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=6221

This article is written by: Rushdina

"That together, no matter how big or small our actions, we can create a wave of change that shifts lives for the better." - Syafiq Jamali-

We had the chance to interview the president of Small Changes MY himself, Mr. Syafiq Najmuddin Jamali. Scroll below to see what he have to say!

“I just hope it feels like home.”

What are your hopes for SC this term?

“I have the highest hopes that Small Changes becomes a space where our volunteers don’t just work hard and fulfill their responsibilities, but also build bonds that last a lifetime. And a place where they can have super fun! Some of us call Small Changes our second or third place. Others see it as their safest space. Whatever it is, I just hope it feels like home.”

“We are friends, sometimes closer than family”

What is one unique thing about Small Changes?

“At Small Changes, we don’t just volunteer together—we grow together. We are friends, sometimes closer than family. The connections we form are more than just about our work; they’re about real, deep bonds. Every term, we give 150% in everything we do, and we celebrate each step of the way. Some of these friendships even turn into something more 👀, but they all start from one thing: a shared commitment to each other and to making a difference.”

“We’re going to show the world what that looks like”

What is one goal you want SC to achieve this year?

“This year, I want ‘Small Changes’ to be a name that resonates far and wide—not just locally, but internationally. We are no longer starting from scratch. Our foundation is strong, and our changemakers are united by one powerful belief: that together, we have the power to create something bigger and stronger, and this year, we’re going to show the world what that looks like.”

“All made possible because of one shared belief”

Any words of encouragement for the team?

“In a world so divided by race, color, background, ideals, and beliefs, it’s easy to think that doing good has to be a solo journey. But look at us. Here we are, changemakers from every corner of life, mingling, working, coming together, going out for mee tarik with strangers-turned-friends you never thought you’d have.—turning strangers into lifelong friends. All made possible because of one shared belief—that together, no matter how big or small our actions, we can create a wave of change that shifts lives for the better.

What would you like to say to the new and returning committees?

“To the returning committees—thank you for your unwavering commitment and for coming back to this journey. And to those new to SC, get ready—one term will never be enough. You will discover something here that will pull you back, time and time again.”

“Small Changes is more than just an organization; it’s a place of refuge and renewal, where you can breathe, find peace, and be part of something bigger than yourself” -Syafiq Jamali-

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/words-from-the-president-a-place-for-changemakers/feed/ 0 Roots Of Resilience by Ong Ky-Reen https://smallchangesmy.org/roots-of-resilience-by-ong-ky-reen/ https://smallchangesmy.org/roots-of-resilience-by-ong-ky-reen/#respond Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:37:11 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4949

Mental health check-in! Anchor roots grow stubbornly deep, grounding their trees in resilience to weather unforgiving landscapes. Because life whips us about in whirlwinds, we too, need our own anchors within it.

“Mental health is a fickle issue: if focusing on the problem isn’t working, try something else.”

Popular cures prescribed for mental exhaustion are usually exercise, friends, or practicing mindfulness. Mental Health Awareness week just passed; perhaps you tried journaling, meditation or worse — convinced yourself that a run would take your mind off things (because an influencer swore by it). But sometimes, focusing on getting better does the exact opposite, and new “quick-fixes” usually never work. Especially if your handwriting bothers you; or if you end up with stitches because the last time you ran was during COVID. Yoga and meditation are overhyped anyway — find anchors true to you. So… what next? If directing more energy into “helping” yourself isn’t working, try directing it outwards!

“By giving, you gain”

The common denominator of your worries is: it’s centred around you. Worrying too much about your problems magnifies them, setting off mental spiralling. Volunteering gently snaps you out by offering a fresh perspective.

“…talking to the beneficiaries and learning about them, how they live their day-to-day lives was a heartwarming experience. Connecting with emotionally intelligent kids showed me how resilient they became, growing up in the orphanage. Although they had different challenges in life, they all share the same thing: their love for knowledge. Their perseverance through hardships inspires me, so much so I told myself I should study harder.” 

-Alani Safiyyah, Volunteer

We all face struggles and self-doubt. More often than not, it manifests as frustration, curt words seeping into our personal lives, inevitably straining relationships. Yet, like Alani, volunteering helps us shed light on perspective: in her case, reminding her it’s a privilege to learn. These are not new revelations; yet sometimes a fresh perspective is what it takes to remember to appreciate and spark introspection.

“Unlikely Third Place”

We don’t lack communication; we are starved of meaningful connection. We hardly stop from the monotone of daily life to ponder not what, but how to find meaning in our lives. You have to step out of your comfort zone to experience life and all it has to offer.

 “I think volunteering indirectly helps us connect in a more authentic way. You form a bond through your shared compassion of wanting to help those around you. In the volunteering scene, we often meet people from various backgrounds but for some unworldly happenstance and reason, everybody is able to bond with those around them so seamlessly even after only spending a day together.

Most, if not all, of those who have volunteered with Small Changes would refer to it as their ‘Third Place’ —  a place that brings them joy and a sense of balance in a world that is so fast-paced. Community allows us to slow down and take a step back from our immediate realities, putting things into perspective on what truly matters in the grand scheme of life. It promotes a culture of being willing to connect and open to those who are around you.”

-Maira Athirah, Committee

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“A constant in life”

Daily life seems to get faster and faster, with consistency and routine losing out to the next best thing on social media. But that consistency is what we need to keep us anchored. Volunteering is not about how many lives you touch, but the depth and impact of each connection.

“I like the idea of revisiting the same houses. While we may not reach as many orphans, this approach fosters trust in connection. The most fulfilling reward is seeing our consistent efforts materialise in their growth.” 

– Aliya Aina, Volunteer

“But I’m new and scared… where do I even start?”

 “Growing alongside people who care deeply about the same things you do is life changing.

 I’ve always wanted to volunteer but I was scared to take the first step because it sounded intimidating. Little did I know that leap of faith would change my life for the better: it allowed me to learn and discover new things about myself and my community, with newfound friendships that I truly cherish.”

– Maira, on why she believes others should give volunteering a try.

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/roots-of-resilience-by-ong-ky-reen/feed/ 0 From Volunteer to Project Director: Interview with Tisya by Iman Sufia https://smallchangesmy.org/from-volunteer-to-project-director-interview-with-tisya-by-iman-sufia/ https://smallchangesmy.org/from-volunteer-to-project-director-interview-with-tisya-by-iman-sufia/#respond Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:43:37 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4861

Iman: What’s the most rewarding aspect of volunteering for you?

Tisya: For me, the belief that you will receive back whatever you give, in some form, is profound. When I registered for GDO last year to empower the students, I found myself feeling empowered instead. It seems that one is never at a loss for extending a helping hand. No amount of time, effort, or resources is ever wasted.

Iman: What is one thing you learned – that you wouldn’t have known otherwise – if it weren’t for your time volunteering with SC?

Tisya: Great outcomes result from synergy, deep passion, and big dreams. Continue to dream big and challenge the norms. Most importantly, remain steadfast in your principles and beliefs. SC has taught me that even the wildest dreams and hopes can become a reality.

Iman: Can you share the experiences meeting new people throughout your volunteer work?

Tisya: The second greatest reward of volunteering, after witnessing the impact you have made, is the people you meet along the way. It is invigorating to work and converse with like-minded individuals. Observing everyone putting forth their utmost effort and sharing the same level of care as you do restores your faith in humanity.

Iman: In your opinion, what are the qualities and/or skills that an individual must have or at least to have if he or she would like to join volunteering?

Tisya: I can provide a list of essential skills that individuals should possess to be efficient and productive. However, none of these skills matter without the one key element that serves as the catalyst for sustained volunteering: a deep passion and a clear understanding of your motivation for starting this journey.

Iman: Can you share any exciting partnerships or collaborations that have been established for Seeds of Deeds: Girls in Action?

Tisya: Our main sponsor would be none other than Axiata Foundation. Additionally, we have secured several other sponsorships, which will be revealed in due course. Here’s a hint: one of them is from beauty product companies.

Iman: Reflecting on your volunteer experiences, how has volunteering influenced your career aspirations or personal goals, if there is any.

Tisya: My volunteering experience has given me a new purpose in life. I’ve passed through various stages and often wondered, “What’s next?” Volunteering has provided an answer—it is to continue making an impact in every possible way I can. From small gestures that lighten someone’s burden to significant contributions that improve the quality of someone’s life, I aspire to make a meaningful impact in both my professional and personal lives.

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/from-volunteer-to-project-director-interview-with-tisya-by-iman-sufia/feed/ 0 Tales From the Past – Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out! by Kartini Jasmin https://smallchangesmy.org/tales-from-the-past/ https://smallchangesmy.org/tales-from-the-past/#respond Wed, 29 May 2024 14:04:43 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4742

Every heart has a home, and here at Small Changes MY,
Seeds of Deeds is at the centre of that said home.

Watch "Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out!" aftermovie.

Amongst the Small Changes community (both committees and volunteers alike), we treat every single project with the same amount of love, respect, and responsibility. But Seeds of Deeds is one of those projects that reminds us all of the exact reason why this NGO is still well-kept and running even after many, many, years later.

 

This term, it was decided that there will be two separate camps for Seeds of Deeds, and the one that you, our dear readers, will be exploring in this article would be Girls Day Out.

 

For the first time since its inception, Seeds of Deeds held its first ever all-girls camp, just like its name would suggest. The target beneficiaries for this project would be 16-year-olds from underserved communities of various backgrounds. Girls Day Out may be three simple words, but the story behind crafting such a camp that reflected upon the theme was filled with tenacious planning and meticulous execution.

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For Project Director Aleesha Shahzi, it was her first time leading a monumental program. Oh, it is scary when it’s your ‘first’. First exam, first dentist appointment, first date, first job. But Aleesha pulled through her first leadership endeavour great and gave credits to her team members, affirming that “I could not have done it better without the rest of my team”.

 

Not to forget, the modules have to be fit for 16-year-old schoolgirls, – something that has never been done within Small Changes before. The brainstorming process would have been quite different, in comparison with the other projects. The first thought that rolled through for Aleesha was: “How do I leave an impact on young girls aged 16?” She related this subject matter back to her own personal life: Aleesha had been brought up in a male-dominated family.  She was the only daughter, and therefore was raised among boys and only got to learn a lot of ‘girly-related’ issues when she grew much older.

With that, the core theme for the camp was introduced, which was Women Empowerment. Joining forces with Yasmin Mortaza, our Module & Impact Measurement Officer, the two women went on to address taboo topics and misconceptions in the modules outlined for Girls Day Out, with the intent to create a safe space for young girls to express themselves without the weight of judgement.

Once the module framework was drafted out, it was time to recruit for volunteers who would be facilitating the camp itself. Small Changes would not have been made possible without the volunteers themselves because they are the running energy that would be conducting the modules to the beneficiaries. Just like the beneficiaries, our volunteers come from diverse origins – from students to working adults and from the Northern states to Sabah and Sarawak.

 

“It’s always a new experience working with people from different walks of life,” Yasmin articulated. Unlike the previous camps she’s used to, Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out had a different pool of facilitators which offered a more diverse range of ideas and encouraged peer-to-peer learning. Further supporting Yasmin’s statement, Aleesha stated that she was lucky to get this set of volunteers as “all 24 of them worked together to develop and deliver modules with the passion to make a difference in the lives of others”.

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Next came the module development in March and April. Throughout the entire two months prior to the camp, the module ideas, consultations, logistics were all conducted over the internet. It was convenient for the volunteers who are also busy with their actual lives, but it was also a challenge for the team since the modules in theory and execution can be two vastly different things. One of the biggest challenges according to Yasmin, was if the facilitators can bring this module to life.

 

“Thankfully, module planning went smoothly, and the facilitators did well to prep for their sessions.” Yasmin voiced. Slight changes and adjustments were done in the earlier days of May, and the camp went live successfully at the end of the month. Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out took place for three days and two nights, from the 26th of May to 28th of May at Asiacamp, Semenyih.

 

A total of 65 young women from SMK Bandar Baru Sungai Buloh, SMK Bukit Jelutong and SMK Shah Alam became Small Changes’ beneficiaries over the weekend. 13 different modules were conducted across the span of three days which ranged from topics of Emotional Intelligence (EQ), Personal Development, Leadership & Women Empowerment, and English Proficiency.

The beneficiaries were engaging and a wonderful lot to oversee over the weekend. It was amazing to see how the girls’ gained confidence within a couple of days. With just little motivation from their respective group’s facilitators, the girls who did not even want to open their mouths on the first day ended up wanting to voice out their opinions voluntarily on the final day. Everyone was raising their hands when given the opportunity to talk, and they articulated their thoughts cohesively in English.

 

Other than modules which touched on English language proficiency, there were also modules that were equally interesting and significant. Namely, ‘Mind Over Media’ to create awareness on issues surrounding internet usage and ways to stay safe online, ‘Prisoner of Society’ to introduce the concept of stereotype and prejudice existing today such as racism, gender bias and discrimination, and ‘Go with the Flow’ to instil understanding on the importance of good hygiene habits and normalise the conversation on menstruation.

A self-defence workshop was also conducted during the camp by SheFights Malaysia, and it was super exciting to see all of the girls in action. After a simple prize-giving and closing ceremony, on the evening of the 28th of May, Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out drew its curtains. It was clearly reflected upon the volunteer’s faces that they had a lot of different emotions going on, and when asked, some of them did share with us how they felt about the camp.

 

Calvis, – one of our youngest volunteers – shared with us that it was “an unexpected but fun experience”. He also said that volunteering with Small Changes felt like “doing a fun art project that you’ll have to submit to your teacher for grading”. Being a part of Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out has also redefined volunteering for Calvis.

Tisya, another first-timer volunteer of ours also shared how Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out has changed her outlook on volunteering. The issue about lending a hand and volunteering for a good cause has always been time. Would one have time for something like this, in all the hecticness of our actual lives? Tisya advises that “If you want to volunteer, just do it. If you ‘plan’ and wait for the ‘best’ time, you are never going to do it. Grab every single opportunity you have, then trust the flow and the process”.  

 

Thanks to that leap of faith, Tisya expressed that she’s collected a beautiful set of memories from this camp. Fatihah shared with us that the highlight of this camp for her was when she volunteered to become the dorm leader for the beneficiaries. Since the end of Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out, Fatihah has been telling her other friends to try volunteering with Small Changes. She explains that the reasoning behind this was because Small Changes “focuses in educating and bringing awareness to their beneficiaries”.

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“I find it admirable as the committee and volunteers themselves are some young people which are in the route of learning too.” 

– Fatihah, Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out Volunteer

In all honesty, it doesn’t really matter with when, where, or how you do it. Volunteering is a deed that brings wonder to many, even myself, the author typing this out for you to read. In a world where darkness and evil are so common, it would not hurt to be that ray of light shining through by just extending your hand out.

What’s a comforting conclusion that we can make from Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out is that volunteerism is still going steady among youths. Yasmin (Module & Impact Measurement Officer) commented that it’s nice to see the shift of volunteers moving beyond those in tertiary education –young adults still want to and can volunteer– which is where Small Changes plays a role.

 

“I also hope that the beneficiaries can continue to pay it forward and maybe someday, give back to their community too.”

 – Yasmin, Seeds of Deeds: Girls Day Out Module & Impact Measurement

 

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/tales-from-the-past/feed/ 0 Project Beanstalk: Through The Eyes of Diksha https://smallchangesmy.org/project-beanstalk-through-the-eyes-of-diksha/ https://smallchangesmy.org/project-beanstalk-through-the-eyes-of-diksha/#respond Thu, 25 Apr 2024 13:06:58 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4719 By Diksha Suri

💭💭💭

Do you see the one in the circle? It’s me, Diksha! One thing about me?

I’ve always liked volunteering.

Whether that’d be at the local temple or in non-government organisations, like Small Changes! So, when I got accepted into the Strategic Planning Team 2023, it wouldn’t be enough to say that I was ecstatic. Initially, I was one of Small Changes’ social media managers – but this year, amongst a group of talented girls, I am one of the Media Journalists!

🌱🌱🌱

In June last year, I attended one of our many volunteer sessions, Project Beanstalk Reinforced 2023. I attended the 2nd visit to Rumah Sentuhan Budi, located in Petaling Jaya. It was an amazing experience for me!

The goal of the visit was to promote English proficiency amongst the girls. So, that was catered to, such as practising English sentences in different formats including writing, speaking, and listening.

Pictured above is the participating volunteers and the executive members of SC.

It reflected on the girls’ faces how energetic they were, that they were having a blast. It was so delightful and fulfilling to witness them have so much fun.

The fun wasn’t limited to just the girls though. The rest of the Small Changes team that attended were enjoying themselves, too! We cracked jokes and giggled along with the girls.

Pictured above are the tidbits of what we’ve done in the volunteer session.

I’d say participating in this volunteer session has made me more thoughtful. I was able to understand further the challenges faced by the lovely and resilient girls of Rumah Sentuhan Budi. I’ve realised that, truly, even the smallest of changes can make such big differences.

All in all, it was a great experience, and I would love to attend another volunteer session.

I’d 100% encourage everyone to shoot their shot at being a volunteer under Project Beanstalk, or any of our projects for that matter. You’d surely return home with newfound lessons and a positive change in perspective, and the interactions you have between the beneficiaries and the rest of the team might just be your next core memory.

Picture taken with benefactors in the Project Beanstalk for keepsake.

📝MEMO:

The concept of volunteerism or charity work is indeed foreign amongst many Malaysians.

As the youth of Malaysia, we need to change this. If we have the privilege of volunteering, we need to grasp the opportunity and be the ones to give back to our community in any way possible. Charity work isn’t just about being able to donate material things or money. As a student myself, I am unable to donate money or material things as of now, but I can donate my time, effort, and skills to improve the surrounding community.

I hope to see more youths practise the principle of volunteerism in the near future.

Cheers!

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/project-beanstalk-through-the-eyes-of-diksha/feed/ 0 Moonlight Musings by Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah – Final Part https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-final-part/ https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-final-part/#respond Sun, 07 Apr 2024 11:14:35 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4710

By Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah

In a blink of an eye, we are already at the finishing line of this blessed month. While waiting for each sunset and the serene sound of adhan, our borrowed time can feel as if it’s moving so sedately. Fasting for 30 days may have come across as something so grandeur but as we reflect on these past few weeks, it was actually a breeze seeing how far we’ve come. What seems like a tangible lesson may be overlooked; indeed abstaining from food and drink reminds us that these too are blessings from Allah s.w.t. that we take for granted.

I believe the most valuable outcome of observing Ramadan is to emerge from the holy month with new information of who we are,  knowledge of ourselves that informs us of our shortcomings and areas for improvement. Evidently, we are able to discover good habits that we can practise and bad habits that are better left behind to make us better human beings and even better muslims. Here are 2 Ramadan Takeaways that we can bring with us in Shawwal :

  1. Practising Mindfulness: When our five senses are given a vacation from thinking about our next meals, the other areas of our days are heightened with clarity. Suddenly, there is room for us to give more thought before we speak, act and how we spend our time. Our attention is zeroed in on these small but very important details. Unbeknownst to us, it suddenly becomes easier to practise mindfulness. This super power has always been inherently present but is often overshadowed by our other abilities, and in Ramadan it shines through to help us realise our true potential. 
  2. Good Deeds are a Form of Worship: That social courtesy you extend to a stranger by holding the lift when someone is about to enter, assisting your family by doing the dishes, and studying are all forms of worship when done for the sake of the Almighty. We sometimes get caught up in the idea that worship only comes in the form of praying and making dua, but when we perform good deeds in the path of Allah s.w.t that too is worship. This month reminds us that our act of kindness is an act of worship, a reflection of one of his names, The Most Generous (Al-Kareem).

As we part ways with the holy month and embrace Eid Al-Fitr, there’s a bittersweet feeling that accompanies the goodbye. However, it is just as important to welcome the month with open arms as Eid Al-Fitr is a gift given by Allah s.w.t. to reward Muslims for the fruits of their labour after a month of self discipline and perseverance.

We are also given the opportunity to expand our good deeds in this month as the Prophet PBUH said, “Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six [days] from Shawwal, it’s as if they have fasted a year” [Sahih Muslim]. This act serves as the cherry on top for a well received Ramadan for those of us who observed it to the fullest. 

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-final-part/feed/ 0 Moonlight Musings by Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah – Part Three https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-three/ https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-three/#respond Thu, 04 Apr 2024 10:53:32 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4696

By Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah

Prophet Muhammad SAW is the best example for our ummah in seeking a life of barakah through practices which are both wajib (obligatory) and Sunnah (highly recommended practices in the life and teachings of Prophet SAW). Prophet SAW said, “Whoever revives my Sunnah then, he has loved me. And whoever loved me, he shall be with me in Paradise.”  (Al-Tirmidhi).

In this article, I will share six sunnah habits of Prophet Muhammad SAW that we might follow to reap benefits this Ramadan. May these routines strengthen our faith, motivation, and understanding of the month’s significance as we strive to join the Prophet SAW in akhirah:

  1. Eating sahur: For the mind, body, and soul, eating sahur is very good for you. Some people find it hard to get up early, especially if they have young children. However, it is important to feed our bodies with foods that will make our service easier. To keep your “sleepy stomachs” from being shocked, you might want to eat smaller amounts at sahur. You could also eat healthy Sunnah superfoods like dates, almond milk, cereals with honey, and wheat goods to get the energy you need and keep you going all day.

  2. Take part in congregational prayers: Prophet Muhammad SAW would go to the mosque to lead the group subuh prayers after finishing his sahur. For many reasons, doing the communal solat subuh is better than going back to sleep after sahur. Additionally, we are invited to say the Terawih congregational prayers this month. If someone prays with a group instead of by themselves, they will be paid seven times more, according to a hadith by Iman Al-Bulkhari and Muslim.

  3. Engage in sadaqah: No one was more kind than the Prophet SAW, especially during the month of Ramadan. Some people say that on the day of Qiyamah, Allah SWT would hide the person whose left hand gave so much in charity that his right hand didn’t know what the left hand had given. As you help your brothers and sisters who are less wealthy by donating, contributing, and paying your required zakat, you will get a lot of rewards.

  4. Aspire to khatam Al-Quran: The Quran was revealed during the month of Ramadan, and the Prophet SAW and his companions would often recite the entire Quran in a single night. Decided to improve the frequency and regularity of Quran recitations. Prior to Syawal, start by creating the intention to khatam Quran; establish small, attainable goals, such as finishing a few pages each day; arrange your recitation schedule and try to fit it in during your lunch break, during your commute, and in between meetings and appointments.

  5. Do not delay iftar: Prophet Muhammad SAW told his companions not to wait to eat iftar because it shows that the sun has gone down and we should enjoy the kindness of Allah SWT’s rezeki. One thing that makes our ummah different from other faiths is that we break our iftar. Also, be kind to the person who fasted and give him more motivation and strength to keep doing the ibadah. Also, don’t forget that it is also sunnah to break your fast with water and one, three, or seven dates.

  6. Make abundance of supplications (Doa): The Prophet SAW and his companions used to wait all year for Ramadan to attain its special blessings. They devoted themselves solely to worship and meditation, for the Prophet SAW said,” A tasbih in Ramadan is better than a thousand tasbihs in other than it.” (Al-Tirmidhi). Praying for other people is one of the best ways to get something. A beautiful and easy way to find peace is to make doa for other people. It makes your heart softer and lessens any bad thoughts you might have about other people. It is also ibadah, and Allah SWT loves people who ask him for help.
]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-three/feed/ 0 Moonlight Musings by Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah – Part Two https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-one-2/ https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-one-2/#respond Thu, 28 Mar 2024 13:33:11 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4685

By Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah

Our days never look the same as the people around us although we have the same 24 hours. Some of us attend classes in the mornings and afternoons because we’re students, some are busy working their corporate jobs and some might be running errands for their families.

Even so, when Ramadan comes around we all share a routine of fasting from dawn to dusk because it’s one of the obligatory acts of worship that we practice in order to uphold one of the five pillars of Islam.

This holy month is where Muslims race to do as many good deeds as possible to reap the rewards that Allah s.w.t. has promised us alongside fasting. It can be a challenge to find time to do extra prayers in the daily schedule that we have been so accustomed to. However, it is also important to remind ourselves that the arrival of Ramadan is not meant to burden us but to provide us with ease.

Umar Ibn Al-Khattab said that he heard the Prophet PBUH say; “Innamal A’malu Binniyat” (Sahih Bukhari), which means actions are dependent upon their intentions. One of the best reminders I receive in Ramadan is that the Almighty is The Most Generous and he will reward us for our intentions as he looks upon our sincerity.

We can look at this month as a reset button for those of us who have been too caught up with the hustle and bustle of today’s culture. Here are 3 ways to make Ramadan easy for you:

  1. Have focused goals.
    In goal setting, the most important element is for it to be personalized and meaningful to you and your spiritual journey. Inspired by Dr. Omar Suleiman’s recent video, here are a few things he suggests we do to refine these goals. There are two that have stuck with me: creating a “to not do list” and a “to do list”. It is more important for us to focus on the former list because we need to remove the barricades that are in the path of His guidance

  2. Do what works for you.
    A little goes a long way, so the best thing we can do for ourselves is make it simple for us to participate in acts of worship that fit seamlessly into our busy lives. Listen to your body; if you feel you can do more in the evening, take a power nap during the day to reenergize yourself. For example, if you want to take a nap, set the intention of resting so that you are able to power up and perform 8 rakats of taraweeh. Setting your intentions and realizing you’re doing it for Allah s.w.t. is a simple example of transforming an activity into an act of worship.

  3. Press the restart button.
    You can restart at any time. Your day may look different from others and that is completely fine. If you feel you have fallen behind in your Ramadan goals, give yourself permission to press the restart button tomorrow. It doesn’t make you less of a muslim if you fall short on a few goals. Be gentle with yourself. This month is a spiritual journey that is a secret between us and our creator.

I hope this Ramadan will help us to restore balance and tranquility in the spiritual aspect of our lives. With the days that remain, we can work on our routines and make Ramadan easier for all of us by tailoring the good deeds that best suit our needs.

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-one-2/feed/ 0 Moonlight Musings by Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah – Part One https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-one/ https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-one/#respond Thu, 21 Mar 2024 07:35:13 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4669

By Rushdina Sofea and Maira Athirah

Muslims all over the world celebrate Ramadan as a holy month. It is a special time to grow spiritually and personally. Rather than just not eating or drinking during this month, everything we do is a chance to grow closer to our faith and become more religious. 

It’s important to do things that keep us busy but also feed our souls and make our spiritual resolve stronger. I will talk about ten good things we can do during Ramadan to make it more enjoyable and help us remember to enjoy this special time. Let’s explore activities that will not only make our Ramadan more meaningful but also have an impact on our lives after the holy month is over!

  1. Cooking and Meal Planning: Use the time during non-fasting hours to experiment with new recipes, plan elaborate iftar (breaking fast) meals, or prepare special treats for family and friends.

  2. Exercise: Engage in light physical activities such as walking, yoga, or stretching to keep your body active during the fasting period. It can also be refreshing to go for a walk after iftar to aid digestion.

  3. Journaling: Take some time to write down your ideas and experiences during Ramadan. Write about your goals for improving your relationship with Allah, your desires for personal growth, and your thoughts on the advantages of fasting. To improve the quality of your journal entries, try adding prayers and passages from the Quran, or thoughts on Islamic principles.

  4. Reading: Take advantage of your leisure time by focusing on spiritual growth and finishing up your reading list. Whether you’re reading religious texts, books about Islamic history and beliefs, or literary works that promote faith and reflection, reading can be a peaceful way to learn more about Islam and strengthen your relationship with Allah.

  5. Learning: Learning can be a rewarding method to increase your knowledge and comprehension of your faith, whether you’re studying the Quran, exploring the biography of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), or learning about the fundamentals of Islamic ethics and morality. Establish spiritual objectives for your educational path, such as learning the Quran by heart or developing virtues like tolerance and kindness. Seek guidance and blessings from Allah along the road as you approach your study with an open heart and a commitment to improve spiritually.

  6. Gardening: If you have a garden or even just a few pots on a balcony, spend time nurturing your plants. Gardening can be a meditative activity and a way to connect with nature.

  7. Art and Craft: Get creative with art projects or crafts. Whether it’s painting, drawing, knitting, or crafting homemade decorations for Eid, engaging in artistic pursuits can be both relaxing and fulfilling.

  8. Organizing and Decluttering: Use the downtime during fasting hours to declutter and organize your living space. This can be a productive way to spend your time and create a more peaceful environment.

  9. Listening to Podcasts or Audiobooks: Tune in to podcasts or audiobooks on topics of interest while you go about your daily tasks. It’s a great way to learn something new or stay entertained while fasting.

  10. Volunteering: Make the most of your Ramadan by helping others and showing goodwill to others. Help out at a neighbourhood iftar, volunteer at a local charity, or offer assistance to needy neighbours. Serving others enhances not only the lives of those around you but also your feelings of gratitude, empathy, and compassion. 

Take advantage of these occasions to consider how important generosity and selflessness are in Islam, and make an effort to live up to these principles during Ramadan and beyond.

]]> https://smallchangesmy.org/moonlight-musings-by-rushdina-sofea-and-maira-athirah-part-one/feed/ 0 Humans of SC: Syafiq Najmuddin https://smallchangesmy.org/humans-of-sc-syafiq-najmuddin/ https://smallchangesmy.org/humans-of-sc-syafiq-najmuddin/#respond Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:56:34 +0000 https://smallchangesmy.org/?p=4400

More than just a gold star sticker on the resume, volunteering can also be beneficial to one’s social being, mental health, creativity, life expectancy and others. Nowadays, volunteering in Malaysia is not only limited to a school curricular activity, in fact, everyone can volunteer during their free time, on weekends or even make it a monthly activity.

Among them is Syafiq Najmuddin Jamali, who has been volunteering with Small Changes since he was 18-years-old. 

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“I discovered SC through a social media post on Twitter. I was 18 and looking for a pastime activity, hence why I decided on joining Seeds of Deeds (SOD) as a facilitator,” shared the 25-year-old.

A student at the time, Syafiq believes that connecting with underprivileged communities is a step towards developing a sense of empathy,

“I am motivated through the thought that I am owed to give back to the communities around me, for all the privileges I have been given in my way growing up.”

Occasionally volunteers would only commit to volunteering every once in a while but Syafiq who has been volunteering for the past five years finds that volunteering with Small Changes gives room for growth. 

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“At first I only signed up for volunteering where I just came and helped with anything that needed to be done, five years later I find myself holding positions I never dreamed of working with this NGO. My first stint as a facilitator was in 2017, then I joined Seeds of Deeds (SOD) again in 2019 before I became an MD for 2021’s virtual SOD run. I then became two-term VP Projects up to date.”

Having held a few positions, Syafiq says that dealing with the role and tasks has helped him in polishing his interpersonal skills. 

“Being in SC has helped me grow so much from a young boy into a man. Volunteering taught me to work in professional settings, and how to improve my communication skills. Essentially I realise that this is a privilege. I strive everyday to be the best version of myself,” adds Syafiq.

But like any other volunteers, Syafiq also had his own fair share of struggles throughout his time of volunteering, “Some of the challenges were unnerving and disheartening, but these challenges have allowed me to continue learning. Team coordination, expectation delivery and taking care of the wellbeing of my committees were all my biggest challenges but none I didn’t and couldn’t get through, all without my helpful teammates.”

Throughout his sessions of volunteering with Small Changes, a core memory that Syafiq remembers is the latest Seeds of Deeds (SOD): Flagship 2023 that commenced at the end of August this year, it was for five days and four nights. The module themes of the project include future pathways, individual insight, and self-management.

“This year’s SOD Project is where I get to witness my committees, whom I am happy to call my best friends bloom and reap the rewards of their hard work. I can never forget my last Xi Shua Shua dance.” Xi-Shua Shua is a must-do dance in every SC programme during module breaks or fitness time.

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Expanding his social circle has helped Syafiq broaden his perspective and help his peers to become confident with who they are.

“Whilst volunteering I have made so many friends from all kinds of different backgrounds. On trying to work on a better me, I also manage to help those around me. From the subtlest ways of having the courage to raise their hand, encouraging others to excel together, and getting over their stage fright to speak in front. In the best way, I am happy that one of my 2017 SOD students is now a facilitator, and I am happy that by the last day of every camp, students were out of their shell, a better version of themselves than they were yesterday.” 

As a newbie, Syafiq understands that volunteering for the first time and not knowing anyone around you can be daunting. His advice to newbies is to always keep an open mind to new experiences. 

“Developing my composure has helped me measure when to listen, speak and to take action accordingly. Sometimes all it takes to diffuse an unfavorable situation is to listen and acknowledge the incident. Always go out of your shell. I keep myself on my toes through constant conversations with strangers or new friends – it helps build an approachable persona and creates mutual trust,’ says Shafiq.

To those who plan to volunteer in the future Syafiq has one advice to share,

“Volunteer with the aim to be the best version of yourself. Changing the world is a big ask – but changing yourself for the better is a challenge worthy of all your efforts. Only through being the best version of yourself, do we have the capacity and aura to help others around us do the same.”

There is without an iota of doubt that volunteering brings significant impact to our lives whether we are looking for a small change or a big one, the journey that volunteering brings can be an unexpected memory that can simply help you reach your goal towards working on yourself, the community and making the world a better place.

 

Written by: Fatihah Irdina
Designed by: Anas Naqieb

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