Coffee Morning in memory of Taleem Akhtar

Coffee Morning in memory of Taleem Akhtar

The ‘Let’s Learn’ class at Sparth Community Centre held a Macmillan coffee morning in memory of Taleem Akhtar, a student who used to attend English classes at Sparth Community Centre.

Taleem tragically lost her life to cancer recently, on the day when Muslims were celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr in September this year.

Taleem’s tutor Jamila Waheed organised the event, with the help of Sparth Community Centre, family and friends of Tasleem Akhtar.

Remembering Tasleem, Jamila said: “Taleem always had a smile on her face, she was a bright, cheerful and kind lady, who was very determined and enthusiastic to develop her English skills.

“We wanted to pay tribute to her and celebrate her life and the legacy she left with us.”

Many of Taleem’s family and friends contributed towards the event by baking cakes and preparing other Asian food.

A memory book with Taleem’s pictures was made for people to look at.

Taleem’s husband attended the event and was extremely touched by the work and effort that had been put into this gathering for Taleem.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale along with Councillor Allen Brett, Councillor Mohammed Zaman and Councillor Shakil Ahmed attended and paid their tribute to Tasleem.

The Mayor of Rochdale Ray Dutton said: “The legacy that Taleem leaves with us is smiles and friendships and I can tell that she was loved dearly by her family and friends and I can see that many of you have made an effort to come here this morning.

“I am very proud as the Mayor of Rochdale for being here and appreciate the passion you have for learning to upgrade your skills.”

Councillor Zaman also praised everyone for their hard work and highlighted that “community togetherness and spirit is a blessing".