Celebrating Ramadan: A Journey with Hisham, CBRE's Apprentice Surveyor

Meet Hisham, an Apprentice Surveyor in our Northern Project, Management & Building Consultancy team.

 

 

Hi Hisham, tell us about your CBRE career-to-date - when did you join the business? 

I joined the business in September 2023 as an Apprentice Surveyor in the Cost Management team, based in our Manchester office. Coming into the workplace straight after completing my A-Levels was quite a big leap but no doubt one that has surpassed all expectations. Put simply, it couldn’t have gone better so far! 

For those who may not be aware, what is Ramadan? 

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and lasts for 29 or 30 days. During the month of Ramadan, we fast during the hours of daylight from just before dawn to dusk. This month is not only about fasting but also a time to increase our spirituality and to bring us closer to our religion. When we break our fast for Iftar (Evening Meal at Sunset) at Maghrib time (Sunset Prayer Time), we break our fast with water and dates before we pray and eat our meal. Exclusive to this month, there are special night prayers known as Tarawih prayers. This is where Muslims who have memorised the Quran in Arabic, recite the entire 30 chapters off by heart, over the course of the month – myself being one of them. 

What are the challenges during the month of Ramadan and how does your daily routine change? 

Here is the tough part. Sticking to my regular routine can be quite tricky. Due to late nights and waking up extremely early for Suhoor (morning meal before sunrise), pushing through the working day and then having the energy to do things outside of work can be hard. However, that is part of the challenge of Ramadan and one which I fully embrace. 

Does the month of Ramadan bring any rewards? 

It is mentally and spiritually very rewarding, Ramadan is a time that allows us to focus on religion and to improve as individuals. The daily gatherings and unity of the local community is another, with everyone gathering and celebrating together. 

How have you found working at CBRE during Ramadan? 

The month is an incredibly busy time for all Muslim professionals, balancing the working day and our religious practices was initially difficult to adjust to. However, my team have been so accommodating that I have had no issues whatsoever. Fasting during the working day has been a new experience for me personally, but one that I have adapted to and found extremely valuable. 

What happens at the end of Ramadan? 

The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid ul-Fitr (Festival of the Breaking of the Fast) which, this year, falls on Wednesday 10th April. During this time, we will go to the Mosque for Eid prayer, give gifts and charity whilst spending time with friends and family. 

 

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