LONDON: The Muslim Impact Forum 2026 concluded a three-day gathering in Istanbul this week, bringing together more than 200 leaders from over 50 countries to discuss coordinated responses to global challenges.
The forum, held under the theme “Prosperity through Collective Action,” convened figures from philanthropy, business, policy and civil society, with a focus on turning dialogue into practical cooperation.
Organizers said the meeting aimed to strengthen partnerships among Muslim-led institutions to address interconnected global crises, including humanitarian emergencies, economic inequality and environmental pressures.
Event director Azim Kidwai said leadership required a more proactive and coordinated approach.
“Leadership is no longer about reacting. It is about anticipating, aligning and taking ownership of outcomes,” he said.
Discussions throughout the forum examined how charitable giving, private investment and public policy could be better aligned to deliver measurable impact.
Former First Minister of Scotland Humza Yousaf, who was one of the speakers, said effective responses would depend on collaboration rather than individual efforts.
“The most impactful solutions will come from ecosystems, not individuals,” he said.
Participants also highlighted the need for Muslim institutions to play a more active role in global policy discussions and long-term development.
Tariq Cheema, one of the delegates, said leadership should focus on influence rather than visibility.
“The next generation of leadership must move from representation to influence,” he said.
Sessions also explored the role of Islamic philanthropy and ethical finance in supporting sustainable development, including the strategic use of zakat and waqf.
Sajad Mahmood, director at the Muslim-led marketing agency Manza, said values-based finance could support long-term change.
“Wealth, when guided by values, becomes a tool for systemic transformation,” he said.
Speakers called for a shift from short-term crisis response to long-term institution building, linking immediate aid to education, infrastructure and economic empowerment.
Attendee Tawfique Choudhury said narrative should be treated as a strategic tool, adding it was “not a byproduct of action, but a strategic asset.”
Organizers said the forum would serve as a platform for continued collaboration beyond the Istanbul meeting, with participants emphasising the need to translate commitments into practical initiatives.
