The Aziz Foundation

We know Britain is a much more open, tolerant and loving place than what we often see on our screens. All across the UK there are good, honest people who know too well that we draw strength and inspiration from each other. This year, we want to share their light.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Marcello Silvestri. An internationally recognised painter and sculptor, Marcello Silvestri was a Catholic artist whose work bridged figuration and abstraction, spirituality and social conscience, and who dedicated his life to exploring humanity and portraying the human condition and the universal values that unite us. Born in Verona, Italy, he drew inspiration from the luminosity, colours and scents of the Etruscan lands, the landscapes of the Maremma, and the symbols and sacred texts of Mediterranean cultures and religions. His Catholic faith was central to his practice. He explored the Jewish roots of the Christian tradition and was profoundly engaged in the ecumenical movement, fostering dialogue among Christians of different denominations. His work explores themes of environmental responsibility, migration, conflict and renewal, often engaging profoundly with biblical narratives — including an extensive pictorial cycle spanning from Genesis to Revelation. His compositions are at once contemplative and urgent, balancing symbolic language with contemporary concerns. We are honoured that our Shared Light interfaith exhibition is among the last to present his work during his lifetime. He will be remembered as an inspiring artist and a remarkable soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter, Sara, and with all his family and friends.

🌙 Eid Mubarak! On this most blessed Eid Al-Fitr, we are wishing all those celebrating across the country and the world a joyous and uplifting day. From all of us at The Aziz Foundation, Eid Mubarak to you and your loved ones. 🌟

💡 Spotlight On: Sneha Chowdhury Inspired by a deep sense of awe for nature - which she understands as a manifestation of Divine artistry - Sneha’s paintings become meditations on temporality, perception and creation. Check out the exhibition: lnkd.in/ev9sUiiN

💡Spotlight On: Mohamad Aaqib Anvarmia Mohamad's evolving practice brings together traditional influences and contemporary making methods, grounded in craftsmanship and thoughtful design. His process is deliberate and contemplative, allowing space for careful construction and reflection within each piece. Check out the exhibition: ramadanlightslondon.com/mohamad-aaqib-…

💡Spotlight On: Meg Wroe Through painting, Meg seeks to capture moments of wonder - whether in the light falling across trees or in the face of a friend. Her works from this series have been installed in St Paul’s Cathedral, Iona Abbey, a North London church and Southwark Cathedral. Check out the exhibition: ramadanlightslondon.com/meg-wroe

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💡Spotlight On: Rashida Osman Rashida Osman is an award-winning Islamic fine artist, calligrapher, educator and curator recognised for her distinctive fusion of traditional Islamic arts and contemporary expression. Through disciplined craftsmanship and contemplative process, her work honours tradition while engaging contemporary audiences in reflection and spiritual awareness. Check out the exhibition: ramadanlightslondon.com/rashida-osman

❓Did You Know? Muslim-owned businesses contribute at least £24.7bn every year. Muslim workers also generate £42bn in income for the UK economy. British Muslims are an integral part of the UK economy, society, culture and life.

💡Spotlight On: Jason Rose Jason is Jewish, and while his heritage informs his perspective, his spiritual path is non-denominational. His work explores themes of consciousness, unity and humanity’s connection to the natural world in ways that resonate across religions and cultures.

🔦Spotlight on...Hamid Patel! Hamid Patel has helped raise educational standards and improve outcomes for thousands of pupils, particularly in areas of social disadvantage.

❓Did You Know? An estimated 46,200 Muslims work in the National Health Service (NHS) helping patients. Muslims are a vital and visible part of the NHS workforce. This month, share the light that exists within our communities.

💡Spotlight On: Mashuda Khandokar Mashuda is a British-Bangladeshi doctor and graphic designer whose work explores the intersection of healthcare and human-centred design. Through her interdisciplinary approach, Mashuda demonstrates how design can move beyond aesthetics to become a means of advocacy, dialogue and meaningful social impact.

🔦Spotlight on...Sir Magdi Yacoub! Dr Yacoub is one of the world’s most renowned heart surgeons, pioneering life-saving transplant and cardiac procedures that have benefited thousands of patients.

For the first time in its history, London's Piccadilly Lights - the largest screen in Europe - lit up with a beautiful message to mark the beginning of Ramadan: 'Happy Ramadan – wishing you peace, love, reflection and togetherness'. @AzizFndn @HOLBID @LandsecGroup @PicLights #Ramadan #Ramadan2026 #RamadanMubarak #london #piccadillylights #happyramadan

❓Did You Know? British Muslims donate significantly more to charity each year than the UK average - An average of £708 per person annually.

🚨 A Historic First in London! In a spectacular first, Europe's largest and most iconic screen in Piccadilly Circus marks the global start of Ramadan. Transforming one of the most iconic public screens into a powerful beacon of unity and reflection.

☪️ Ramadan 🤝 London In a spectacular world-first, Piccadilly Lights has been illuminated to mark the beginning of Ramadan, transforming one of the most iconic public screens into a powerful beacon of unity and reflection.