About Us
The Barking Muslims Association CIO | 1184296
The Barking Muslims Association is a charitable trust registered with and overseen by the charities commission of England and Wales.
The BMA administers Al Madina Mosque which is situated on the site at Victoria Road and encompasses three separate buildings on the complex comprising of the Mosque, ASG; an Ofsted Registered School, and a Community Centre which houses a:
Bespoke Sensory Room, Food Bank, Restaurant, Sports Hall & Wellness Room.
Over the last 30 years the BMA have worked hard to become a hub for the local communities and is today acknowledged and recognised as a Beacon Mosque.
Team Al Madina
Meet The Trustees
Ashfaq Siddique
As a lifelong resident of the borough, I have had the privilege of witnessing the growth and development of our vibrant community. Having attended the Salisbury Avenue Mosque from a young age and commenced volunteering at 15, I have developed a deep understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations.
My 30-year experience in public office has provided me with valuable skills and insights, which I now utilize in my capacity as Mosque Secretary. In this role, I am responsible for overseeing the mosque’s front-facing operations, addressing community needs, and driving strategic initiatives. Our mosque is committed to delivering innovative and impactful services, including the Hive women’s centre, Sensory Hive SEN service, Community Support Programme, International Welfare Programme, and a new domiciliary care agency.
I am passionate about serving our community and contributing to the mosque’s continued success and growth.
Muhammed Abdul Majeed
I immigrated to the United Kingdom from Pakistan as a young child in 1959, settling in Plaistow, East London. During this post-war era, the social landscape was distinct, with lingering food rationing and limited cultural diversity.
As a pioneer in my community, I navigated the challenges of being one of the few students from the Sub-Continent at my school. Despite the absence of formal Islamic institutions, I seized opportunities for spiritual growth, attending a makeshift masjid and madrassah in a converted corner shop in Star Lane, Canning Town. This early experience instilled a deep appreciation for faith and community.
After relocating to Barking in 1966, I built a successful career at Ford Motor Company, progressing from shop floor to Area Clerk. My involvement with Al-Madina Masjid began during my tenure at Ford, where I was honoured to serve as a committee member and Trustee of The Barking Muslims Association.
Having held the role of Treasurer until 2022, I continue to dedicate my skills and experience to the community as a Trustee, committed to supporting the mosque’s mission and fostering a sense of unity and purpose.
Abdelaali Aouane
I arrived in the UK in 1984 as an international student from Moroccan University, graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Civil Engineering in 1990.
After working as a Senior Track Engineer with London Underground, I retired in 2005 and pursued a new career as a Black Cab driver. Having settled in Barking with my family in 2000, I’ve developed strong ties to the community.
Al Madina Mosque has been my spiritual home, and I’ve witnessed its transformation into a vibrant community hub under the leadership of the late Haji Mohammed Siddique and now his son.
Observing the mosque’s positive impact on countless lives, I felt compelled to contribute more actively. Joining the board of trustees aligns with my values, and I’m eager to utilize my skills and experience to add value and give back to the mosque that has enriched my family’s life.
Arshad Mahmud
Since the age of eight, I have had a deep connection to Barking & Dagenham and the borough’s sense of community has shaped both my work and values. I’m very passionate about supporting the next generation, helping young people access opportunities, and ensuring the future needs of the local community are recognised and addressed. As a committed team player, I like to work collaboratively with others to create a positive and lasting impact.
My mission is to use my experience, skills, and values to support local people and communities. I’m committed to helping young people unlock opportunities, strengthening local organisations, and creating an environment where future generations are supported, inspired, and encouraged to take part within our communities.
Through teamwork, integrity, and community spirit, I aim to make a positive, lasting difference in Barking and Dagenham and beyond.
Christina Rowe
Born in India and settling in the UK at a young age, I’ve called this country home for most of my life. My journey with Al Madina began through my NHS role, where I was drawn to the organisation’s mission and values. Over the past 20 years, I’ve volunteered extensively, designing and delivering projects that promote health, mental wellbeing, and community cohesion.
My dedication and passion led to an invitation to join the board of trustees, where I now oversee key portfolios, including women’s engagement, therapeutic practices, and initiatives supporting individuals affected by the cost-of-living crisis. With 30 years of living in the community, 20 years of experience in the health sector, and as a parent of a grown-up son, I’m deeply rooted in the community and committed to its wellbeing.
As the first female trustee of Al Madina, I’m proud to have played a role in the organisation’s achievements, including receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2022. I am committed to continuing my work with Al Madina, driving its mission forward, and elevating its impact in the community.
Omair Shah
My journey started as a young teen volunteering at Al Madina helping out during Ramadan and community events, fast-forward 13 years & now the current Site Manager leading on multiple portfolios, I find myself becoming an integral part of the organisation.
In 2020, I was granted the honour of becoming the youngest Trustee of the BMA and at the start of 2022 was mentioned in the Late Queens 2022 Honours List for services to the community during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
It gives me great pleasure to serve our various communities on a daily basis and I welcome you all to Al Madina, a place which I call home.
Meet The Imams
Hafiz Muhammad Afzal Khan
I am a qualified Qur’an reciter and Islamic teacher who studied under esteemed scholars from Madinah, Saudi Arabia and Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt
Currently I serve as the Imam and Community Engagement Officer at Al Madina Mosque where I lead prayers, teach the Qur’an, and work closely with the community to promote faith, unity, and good character.
Alongside Islamic service, I also share beneficial health reminders inspired by natural principles and Islamic teachings, encouraging balanced living, personal responsibility, and wellbeing in accordance with the Sunnah.
Shaykh Hasan Shire
I lived for 10 years in Yemen studying a variety of Islamic disciplines, including Islamic legal theory, Hadith and spiritual sciences.
Currently, I am a Mental Health Chaplain in Essex, a Hospital Chaplain at the University College London Hospital, an occasional guest Imam at Al Madina Mosque, and the founder of Nur Sa’aadah, a community organisation based in East London which works closely with Al Madina.