Hundreds of women have joined together at the Baitul Futuh Mosque to discuss the aim to "nurture today, protect tomorrow".
More than 300 people attended the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women Association’s 7th Annual Peace Symposium on Saturday, November 21, to talk about inspiring and guiding young people and the importance of women’s education.
The day included speeches from women including Siobhain McDonagh MP, the mayor of Croydon Patricia Hay-Justice and a message from the Khalifa Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, who condemned the recent attacks in Paris.
Women from all faiths attended the event
There were also tours around the mosque and its library, as well as a question and answer session and dinner.
One speaker at the event was the CEO of charity ‘Step up to Serve’ which is behind the national ‘#iwill’ campaign to try and involve young people into volunteer work in the community, Charlotte Hill.
She said: "I would like to say a huge thank you to your community. Thank you for the great leadership you are showing in helping young people step up."
CEO of 'Step up to Serve', Charlotte Hill, gave a speech
Cabinet member for children’s services at Merton Council, Councillor Maxi Martin, also attended the event and called it "a lovely social occasion with a deep meaning."
She said: "It was a most enjoyable evening spending time with our friends. It breaks down barriers, chatting and having dinner together.
"It is always a joy to come."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here