A shared iftar (meals observed at sunset during Ramadan) can do more than break a fast—it can build a community.

Students gather at Lincoln Hall for a Ramadan information sharing session.

For millions of Muslims around the world, Ramadan is a time of reflection, fasting, and prayer. For KDI School’s Muslim students, it is a season of gratitude, self-discipline, and a deeper connection with their faith and community. However, observing it far from home can feel very different and might feel isolating. Recognizing these circumstances, the school’s Muslim community decided to create a shared experience to celebrate their faith with others. This year, they organized the Ramadan Iftar and Evening Sharing at the KDI School Lincoln Hall on March 7. The event welcomed both Muslim and non-Muslim students, offering an evening of learning, connection, and unity.

Members of the KDIS Muslim community discussing Ramadan, its significance and traditions

The inspiration for this event began with a simple realization: Ramadan is a unique and significant celebration that many people may not fully appreciate. For an entire month, Muslims do not eat or drink from dawn until sunset. This practice often draws curiosity, with Muslim students receiving questions such as, "How long are you supposed to fast?" or "How do you focus on class while fasting?" Other students expressed interest not only in the practical aspects but also in the deeper meaning of Ramadan, how it shapes daily life, and the emotional and spiritual experiences it brings. 

Student organizers and volunteers preparing for the event.

As one organizer, Daffaa Dewa Al-Ghiffari from Indonesia (MPP, 2025), shared, “Some members of the community said that their non-Muslim friends are quite curious about Ramadan. That makes us more excited to conduct this event.” What began as an idea to address these curiosities quickly grew into a collective effort. “We are so grateful that this community is solid. We prepared and organized the event collectively. Every member of the Muslim community in school participated in different ways from organizing the event, food preparation, and even some alumni have offered their support as well,” he added.

Following event preparations, conversations with Muslim students highlighted a key theme: celebrating Ramadan away from home for the first time can be both challenging and unfamiliar. In many Muslim countries, Ramadan traditions are closely tied into community life, filled with nightly gatherings, shared meals, and mosques buzzing with prayers. “In Ghana, Ramadan is more communal and lively, with families, neighbors, and the Muslim community actively involved,” recalled Fareedah Al-Hassan (MPP 2025). Fahira Anindita Hanoum from Indonesia (MPM, 2025) mentioned that, in addition to missing family and community traditions, “one of the biggest adjustments is managing my daily schedule” while balancing fasting with academic responsibilities abroad.

As these conversations unfolded, many students reflected that, despite challenges and homesickness, observing Ramadan abroad has become a source of personal growth and transformative experience. Jahedul Islam (MPM 2025, Bangladesh) remarked, “The most rewarding part of observing Ramadan while studying abroad is experiencing different countries’ unique traditions for meals, prayers, and community gatherings.” Similarly, Muhana Raihan Ardi (MPP 2025, Indonesia) shared that simply experiencing Ramadan in a foreign country for the first time was the most rewarding part. Although it was challenging, it gave them a “new perspective on how to adapt while still keeping the true meaning of Ramadan alive.” Thus, the event emphasized that Ramadan, being the holiest month for Muslims, is a time for reflection, renewed gratitude, and purpose.

Students taking part in the Ramadan discussion and the iftar gathering.

Moving from these personal reflections, the gathering itself became more than a shared meal; it became a meaningful learning experience for the student body. Atikan Kulsakdinun (MDP 2024, Thailand) came away with a new perspective and shared her impressions. “I had never joined celebrations or religious activities different from mine,” she said. "At first, I thought fasting would be hard," she added, but the event changed her perspective. Experiencing the evening, she and other students realized Ramadan is about self-discipline, devotion, and community. Many were surprised by the joy and sense of togetherness at iftar, and they recognized the event's powerful role in deepening connection and understanding among participants.

Students praying tarawih (night prayers performed during Ramadan) at Lincoln Hall

The wider KDIS community also played a crucial role in nurturing this sense of belonging. Muslim students expressed gratitude for the school’s support, from allowing access to the kitchen for suhoor (morning meal eaten before sunrise) to providing space for prayers in the school building. Contributions from Vietnamese and Thai friends, who provided fruit and drinks for the event, demonstrated true student solidarity and inclusiveness at KDI School. 

Notes of support and appreciation posted by students for Ramadan and the organizers (left). Fruits shared by Vietnamese students (right).

For most of us, dinner is often a routine part of the day. However, this particular sunset gathering stood out. For participants, the shared experience of Ramadan and iftar became a meaningful celebration of unity through faith, cultural diversity, and the warmth of a connected community.