IN THE realm of social media and digital influence, my foray into crafting my first-ever Ramadan Planner in 2019 was spurred by a mix of personal inspiration and a desire to offer a practical tool for the holy month.
As a social media content creator, I stumbled upon the opportunity to create something unique that ended up resonating with thousands across the globe. The inception of the Ramadan Planner had a simple beginning - an attempt to assist a friend who had recently reverted to Islam.
My friend at the time was struggling to find something that had all the resources she needed for the month in one place. Sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to keep track of lectures, books and a diary especially during a month where time is so precious. Upon noticing this I suggested helping out by creating a collection of pages that she could fill in for the month which would help her keep track of everything in one place as well as having reminders of the basic principles of Islam.
Recognising the challenges faced by someone new to the faith, my friends and family viewed this as a potential for a tool that could guide individuals through the nuances of Ramadan and began sharing it through WhatsApp.
had no idea that the planner would pick up such engagement until I came into university and someone had come up to me saying “Your planner really helped me put my goals into perspective”. Upon hearing this it encouraged me to share parts of it online. This well-intentioned effort later took on a life of its own when I decided to finally share the full book on X and Instagram. Surprisingly, the planner gained unexpected traction, accumulating four million impressions and over 20,000 downloads via X.
It became evident that there was a genuine interest in a planner that was tailored specifically for Ramadan. The planner's success reflected not only its practical utility but also the growing demand for accessible resources within the diverse Muslim community.
As someone who regularly shared infographics on social media, I realised how important it was to use my platform to share the planner and help those who didn’t have access to resources that could help increase their knowledge and strengthen their connection with Allah during the holy month.
The Ramadan Planner naturally became a part of my mission to encourage inclusivity. Its success really showed that there's a demand for resources that can bring the Muslim community together especially during a time like the pandemic when doing Ramadan alone made us all crave a bit of unity.
In the face of the pandemic, when physical distancing became the norm, the planner's role as a virtual companion during solo Ramadan observances became even more pronounced.
Its impact was not just about providing practical guidance; it was about fostering a sense of community and shared experience during a challenging time when many felt isolated in their fasting and celebrations.
What initially began as a modest 30-day diary has evolved into a comprehensive journal, enriched with in-depth insights into Islam and the fundamental principles of being a Muslim. With each subsequent edition, I acknowledged the importance of incorporating a contextual understanding of our five pillars, along with a cardinal reminder of the significance behind observing Ramadan.
This planner is designed to help you stay connected to that remembrance. It includes sections for daily prayers, Quran reading and reflection, helping you stay focused on your spiritual goals. It also includes a section for meal planning, daily schedules and self- care; recognising that our mental and physical health are also an important part of our spiritual journey.
But perhaps the most special feature of this planner is the inclusion of Quranic verses that are relevant to each day of Ramadan. These verses have been carefully selected to reflect the themes and events of each juz (section) you complete per day, and they provide a powerful reminder of the blessings and opportunities that Ramadan brings.
More than just a guide, it provides a shared experience, creating a sense of unity transcending geographical boundaries. Remarkably, the Ramadan Planner manages to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, resonating with Muslims worldwide. In 2021, I had messages from people in Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh printing out the planner to use in classrooms.
Its universal appeal led to translations in multiple languages, reaching an even broader audience and breaking geographical boundaries. Beyond its impact during the holy month, the Ramadan Planner became a catalyst for conversations about Islam and its practices. I spent a lot of time sharing it on different platforms and noticed it opened avenues for dialogue and allowed individuals to learn more about Islam within the Muslim community. The response was both humbling and inspiring, highlighting the hunger for resources that cater to the diverse needs of Muslims globally.
This journey reinforced my commitment to creating content that builds bridges and fosters understanding. My experience with the Ramadan Planner exemplifies the potential of digital platforms in amplifying voices and creating meaningful connections. This initiative, while not seeking the spotlight, played a significant role in enhancing the Ramadan experience for countless individuals and showcased the positive impact of social media within the diverse tapestry of the Muslim community.
*Ramadan Planner: A guide to reflection and growth during the holy month is published by Century, a division of Penguin Random house.
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