Hijaz Community is delighted to inaugurate the ‘Miqyaas Al Khidmah Award’, to honour pillars of the community who have offered profound and enduring service to British Muslim society.
Hijaz Community is delighted to announce the first recipient of its newly established Miqyaas Al Khidmah Award. This year, we are pleased to present this prestigious award to Professor Sophie Gilliat-Ray, a truly deserving individual whose life’s work embodies the spirit of selfless service, or Khidmah.
Rooted in the Islamic principle of Khidmah, meaning selfless service, the MiqyaasAl Khidmah Award translates to ‘A Benchmark of Altruism’. It is a cornerstone of our annual Blessed Summit, serving as a formal recognition of individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving British Muslim society. Our aim is to set a distinguished standard of excellence, inspiring everyone in our community to greater acts of dedication and contribution for the sake of Allah Almighty. This award ceremony is a highlight of the Blessed Summit, allowing our entire community to collectively honour the recipient and reflect on the immense impact of a life dedicated to others.
Professor Gilliat-Ray’s extensive research, insightful publications, and unwavering commitment have not only enriched our understanding of British Muslim life but have also fostered greater dialogue, recognition, and support for our communities within broader British society. Her work perfectly exemplifies the very essence of Khidmah, demonstrating a selfless dedication to building bridges, promoting understanding, and serving the fabric of our society. She is, without doubt, profoundly deserving of this inaugural recognition.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Professor Sophie Gilliat-Ray for her exemplary service and look forward to her continued inspiration. May the Miqyaas Al Khidmah Award continue to shine a light on those who dedicate their lives to the service of others, for the sake of Allah Almighty, for many years to come.
“I was recalling when I arrived at Hijaz the Welsh word cynefin which means ‘feeling at home’. I have always felt at home here… it is a very learned, blessed and respectful space.”
Remarks from
Professor Sophie Gilliat-Ray
“In the introduction you mentioned my academic achievements, the letters after my name touch my CV and it makes the university happy; this award touches my heart, and it is the recognition from the Muslim community in Britain that really means so much to me… Thank you.”
Remarks from
Professor Sophie Gilliat-Ray
Professor Gilliat-Ray’s impactful contributions stem from her pioneering academic work and dedication to understanding British Muslim life. As the Founding Director of the Islam-UK Centre at Cardiff University (established in 2005), she turned the centre into a vital hub for research and engagement, promoting a deeper understanding of Islam and Muslim communities in Britain.
Her influential research includes extensive studies on Muslim chaplaincy in prisons and hospitals since 1994. Her seminal book, Muslims in Britain: An Introduction (2010), serves as a key resource on British Muslim daily life and diversity. She also co-authored Understanding Muslim Chaplaincy (2013) and Muslim Childhood (2013), offering invaluable community insights.
She has led numerous research projects, including “Understanding British Imams” and “Converts in British Muslim Life.” Her dedication extends to public education through the development of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) titled “Muslims in Britain: changes and challenges,” alongside a professional development course for religious education teachers.
