TMU alumna reflects on joy and gratitude for Eid
Humaira Sedu
Human Resources Management ’24
Founder, Executive Director, Muslimah Athletic Club
Eid Mubarak! With the Holy Month of Ramadan soon concluding on March 29, this weekend Muslim communities around the world will next prepare to observe Eid ul-Fitr.
In her own words, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) alumna Humaira Sedu, a 2024 graduate of the Human Resources Management program, shares with us a day in her life during Eid — a time of spiritual reflection and connection.
A tapestry of faith, togetherness and joy
In the Islamic calendar, Muslims celebrate two major holidays: Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha. While both are joyous occasions, they commemorate distinct events and embody different aspects of our faith. Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. It is a time of immense joy and gratitude for having completed the spiritual journey of Ramadan and characterized by communal prayers, the giving of Zakat ul-Fitr (a form of charity), and the sharing of festive meals with family and friends. It is a celebration of spiritual renewal and the strengthening of community bonds after a month of self-discipline and devotion.
Eid celebrations in my South Asian Indian Gujarati culture typically extend over three days, emphasizing the importance of sustained connection and celebration. These days are filled with delicious food, shared laughter and a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings of faith and family. It’s a reminder of the core values that guide our lives: faith, community, compassion and gratitude, leaving us with cherished memories that last long after the festivities are over.
Humaira’s family arranges 10-15 homemade treats onto plates and into boxes, ready for delivery to friends and neighbours of all faiths, strengthening the bonds of the wider community. Throughout the night, phone calls buzz with “Eid Mubarak! The moon has been sighted!”
The night before…
… is a whirlwind of activity, driven by the Islamic principle of sharing. We meticulously arrange 10-15 varieties of homemade treats onto plates and into boxes, ready for delivery. The exchange goes both ways, with excited children often delivering treats to our doorstep, a delightful display of neighborly kindness.
This night is also a time for deep spiritual reflection. We engage in prayers, seeking forgiveness and blessings, while simultaneously ensuring our home is clean and welcoming. In Islam, cleanliness (Taharah) is considered half of faith, reflecting a state of both physical and spiritual purity.
Humaira’s mother’s meticulous preparation of her Eid Biryani is a labour of love, and exemplifies the dedication and care the Sedus put into honouring this sacred day.
The Sedu home becomes a vibrant gathering place, reflecting the Islamic values of kinship and social responsibility. The day unfolds with a steady stream of visitors, all sharing food, admiring outfits and catching up.
The morning…
… begins with the Eid prayer, a communal act of worship that strengthens our sense of unity (Ummah). The sight of Muslims gathering in prayer, whether in a mosque or an open field, is a powerful reminder of our shared faith and submission to Allah. This act of congregational prayer is a cornerstone of our Eid celebrations.
Upon returning home, we exchange hugs, usually three times alternating sides, and more Eid Mubarak wishes. Then, I receive my Eidi [Eid gifts] from my parents and grandmother, a tradition symbolizing reward and blessing.
Humaira is the founder and executive director of the Muslimah Athletic Club, which was created to support and empower Muslimah and BIWOC women to thrive in sports such as hockey.
Throughout the day…
… we share meals, exchange stories and celebrate the blessings of Eid. The act of sharing food, a deeply rooted Islamic tradition, strengthens our bonds and fosters a sense of community. As the day transitions into evening, we often enjoy watching a hockey game, a nod to our Canadian identity, while still prioritizing conversation and connection.
Humaira Sedu is a diversity, equity and inclusion champion and sports management professional building inclusive communities. She is the founder of Muslimah Athletic Club, empowering Muslim women and allies in sports. Passionate about creating inclusive spaces where everyone belongs, Humaira recently received a Member of Parliament Citizenship Medal and in 2024 was named by the Toronto Star as one of 24 changemakers for women and girls in sport.
Muslim faculty and staff at TMU can join the Muslim Employee Community Network to connect with colleagues, and to stay up to date on the latest updates, resources and events.
