The International Muslim Association of Scientists and Engineers (IMASE) recently hosted a novel event. IMASE Entrepreneurs (IMASE-E), a focus group, presented a series of talks coupled with a participatory workshop on the theme of 'Muslim Enterprise and Global Economic Development'.

The aim of the organisers was to promote functional networking with Muslim values and to focus creativity on real life business challenges. Following opening statements from the IMASE team, IMASE-E coordinator Imran Sharaf explained the outlook and strategy of IMASE Entrepreneurs. Guest speaker, Mohammad Noman Khan, spoke with the audience about the need for ethical enterprise from the Muslim community and about his 30 year experience as a business consultant to the Leisure and Food Industry. Rashad Yaqoob, director of an Offshore Private Equity Firm, and general wheeler dealer extraordinaire inspired the audience with his adventures and reflections on the role of smart British Muslim businesspeople, and their potential to make a positive impact on the way things are run around the world. Notably, Rashad’s personal experiences such as the “becoming a clock-builder rather than a time teller” and the “seize the opportunity, seize the moment” milestones ignited his entrepreneurial flare and drive.

Following individual introductions from the audience, prayers and some smart Malaysian cuisine, organisers and participants arranged themselves for the workshop. There was an almost astonishing degree of compliance and confidence amongst delegates, which is encouraging for the future of the project and similar schemes in the future.

Equipped with in-house research in the form of 'Country Dossiers' outlining business opportunities in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia and Pakistan, the audience was split four ways to focus on the particular challenges associated with their briefs. These situations provided a opportunity for the creation of working synergies and the cross-fertilisation of ideas about financing mechanism, technology transfer, employment rights and appropriate development. Each group presented their findings in turn and the feedback session highlighted areas in which the ideas presented could be taken forward.

The opportunity of learning and networking amongst 50 enterprising Muslims from mixed backgrounds and expertise was beneficial for all, with ideas, solutions and insights buzzing around the halls and insha’Allah drawing closer to realisation. The entire afternoon resonated with an atmosphere of creative support - a quality that was appreciated by many. IMASE wishes to thank all those who attended and made this event a success.