This challenge is crafted to provide a sense of resilience, community, and adventure for female Muslim students, blending physical endurance with spiritual growth.
Starting on Friday evening, the journey not only involves physical effort but also fosters self-discipline, unity, and a focus on faith. During the challenge, sisters are asked to put themselves in the shoes of refugees making difficult journeys to safety.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for the sisters looking to take on this journey.
1. Friday evening: preparing for the journey
Dress code
Start the adventure by getting dressed up in your best abaya and hijab on Friday evening. This choice sets the tone of dedication and represents your commitment to taking on this challenge together as sisters in faith.
Packing essentials
- Rucksack lined with a bin bag (for waterproofing)
- Full change of clothes and a towel for after the course
- Sturdy, waterproof footwear and a lightweight change of shoes
- A prayer mat and a bottle of water for making wudu
With everything packed and sealed, sisters should get ready to sleep in these clothes to prepare for a night that will call on their patience and dedication. Think of those women in war situations, who know they may be forced to flee at any moment.
2. Sahoor and intention
Around an hour before dawn, sisters will get up for sahoor (pre-dawn meal) together, making the intention to fast for the entire duration of the challenge.
This meal will help sustain them throughout the day and reinforce the spirit of perseverance. Sahoor provides both physical and spiritual fuel, aligning the body and mind for the day ahead.
Plan a light but nourishing meal with foods that provide energy and hydration, like fruits, dates, and water. Consider a bowl of porridge to provide slow-release energy throughout the challenge
3. Fajr and setting off
Fajr prayer
After sahoor, sisters will pray Fajr together, fortifying their intention to embark on this challenge for the sake of their own growth and to encourage each other.
Departure
Soon after dawn, the group will set off on foot from their university or halls of residence to London Victoria train station. This walk will offer time for reflection, conversation, and encouragement among sisters as they prepare for the next steps.
Estimated journey time
Allow around 1-1.5 hours to reach London Victoria on foot, depending on the starting location within London. Departing shortly after dawn should give plenty of time to catch a mid-morning train.
4. Train to Holmwood station
From Victoria Station, the sisters will take a train to Holmwood station in Beare Green, just outside Dorking. The journey will be a time to relax and mentally prepare for the main event. Imagine being a refugee making a journey to moderate safety.
Student ticket cost
Return ticket from London Victoria to Holmwood costs around £12-£15 with a Student Railcard.
Estimated train travel time
The train journey from London Victoria to Holmwood is approximately 1-1.5 hours.
5. Walking from Holmwood station to Henfold Lakes
Arriving at Holmwood station, the group will continue on foot along a section of the Beare Green Circular Walk, heading towards Henfold Lakes. This scenic walk provides a beautiful break from the city, giving sisters a chance to enjoy nature, make dhikr, and deepen their connections with each other.
Estimated walk duration
This leg of the journey is about a 3-4km walk, taking approximately 1-1.5 hours at a relaxed pace.
6. Arriving at the assault course
Upon reaching Henfold Lakes, the sisters will arrive at the Camelot Events assault course. With the spirit of teamwork and encouragement, the group will tackle the course, navigating obstacles, crawling through mud, and pushing their limits together.
Why this is beneficial
The assault course is an excellent way to test physical and mental resilience. Working together to overcome obstacles reinforces the bond of sisterhood, boosts self-confidence, and provides a practical challenge that reflects inner strength.
Being outdoors, interacting with nature, and testing one’s limits can also enhance focus and gratitude, offering an opportunity to appreciate Allah’s creation.
Carrying rucksacks
The sisters will continue to carry their rucksacks containing their change of clothes throughout the course, simulating endurance and reinforcing patience. Think of refugees carrying their possession with them.
Estimated cost
The assault course costs around £20-£30 per person, with group discounts potentially available.
7. Changing and returning to station
After completing the assault course, the sisters will change into their dry clothes, clean up as best as they can, and prepare for the walk back to Holmwood station.
With renewed energy and a sense of accomplishment, they will reflect on their achievement together as they retrace their steps to the station.
Estimated return walk
The walk back to Holmwood station is about 1-1.5 hours, providing time to recover and enjoy the satisfaction of completing the course.
8. Return train to London for final leg
After arriving back in London, the sisters will walk from Victoria station to their university or halls. This last stretch is an opportunity to reflect on the physical and spiritual journey they’ve undertaken.
Reflection and gratitude
On arriving back, sisters should remain together in order to break their fast and share a communal meal. They may reflect that for refugees, that evening meal may never come.
As they conclude the challenge, sisters can make du’a, express gratitude for the experience, and take time to reflect on the challenges overcome.
Why this challenge is ideal for iSoc Sisters
This challenge offers a beautiful blend of physical and spiritual growth. For iSoc Sisters, it provides an empowering reminder of their strength, both individually and as a group.
Walking in their abayas, fasting, praying together, and supporting each other through a physical challenge mirrors life’s journey of facing hardships with faith and resilience. It will especially foster empathy of women refugees facing challenges like these daily.
Completing the challenge will bring a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie, reinforcing their connection to Allah and their shared purpose as sisters in faith.
This journey will enhance their iman, pushing them to rely on each other and Allah’s strength, all while experiencing the joy of teamwork and personal endurance. It’s an ideal experience for those looking to deepen their bonds with each other and grow as strong Muslim women facing the world together.
Tip for the Islamic Society Head Sister
When booking the Camelot Events assault course, ensure the schedule accommodates the group’s travel time from London and back. Coordinate the start time at the venue with sufficient buffer for walking from Holmwood station and preparing upon arrival.
This way, sisters can start the course at an appropriate time without rushing, especially considering the early morning departure and walking elements.
For comprehensive booking guidance, please refer to the “Event Planning and Coordination” section elsewhere on the website, which covers timing considerations, special requests, and ensuring the event is Islamically accommodating.