Morning gathering at madrasah
Timing and arrival
8:30am – 9:00am: Participants arrive at madrasah
Daughters arrive
- Dressed in standard madrasah uniform (jilbab and hijab)
- Wearing base layer suitable for physical activity underneath
- Trainers ready for activities
- Unaware of mothers’ participation
- Expecting transport to an adventure experience
Mothers arrive
- Dressed immaculately in best halaqa attire (creating dramatic contrast)
- Trainers hidden in car boots
- Maintaining pretence of being support staff
- Fully briefed on the day’s surprise and structure
- Ready to “reluctantly” participate when revealed
Pre-departure briefing
9:00am – 9:30am: Challenge explanation for daughters
Content covered
- Purpose: Walking in refugees’ shoes and experiencing hardship
- Overview of physical challenges ahead (obstacle course, muddy trek)
- Islamic framework connecting to sabr (patience) and empathy
- Safety guidelines and behaviour expectations
- Emphasis on supporting each other through difficulties
Mother positioning
- Sit at back of room appearing to wait patiently
- Listen attentively whilst maintaining “parent waiting” persona
- Avoid giving away participation through clothing or behaviour
- Prepare mentally for upcoming surprise reveal
Organiser considerations
- Brief someone unfamiliar with the surprise to lead this session
- Keep mothers’ role completely hidden from daughters
- Build excitement about the adventure ahead
- Emphasise teamwork and mutual support themes
- Connect challenges to refugee experiences authentically
Journey logistics
9:30am – 10:00am: Travel to assault course venue
Transport arrangements
- Each mother drives her own daughter(s) or car shares
- If car sharing, both mothers accompany youngsters
- Maintain surprise by keeping conversation normal
- Mothers can discuss “waiting at venue” or “meeting up whilst girls are busy”
- Use journey time for daughters to build excitement amongst themselves
Organiser checklist
- Confirm all cars have adequate seating
- Provide clear directions to venue
- Share mobile numbers for communication
- Brief about parking arrangements and meeting point
- Emphasise punctual arrival for surprise timing