The Qiraat Competition was a great learning experience for me as well as for others. The place was filled to the brim when I reached my school, Baytul Iman Academy. I was excited and nervous at the same time, and I imagined all the fun and education I would earn. Signs filled the halls, as well as people, and stands, which have pamphlets and flyers about their companies, which mainly help poor and homeless people around the world. It was beautiful, and I was amazed and awed by all the great things there were. The men’s and women’s rooms were decorated with beautiful posters, and a huge sign at the back of the men’s room had a huge sign which said in big bold white letters, BAYTUL IMAN ACADEMY ANNUAL QIRAAT COMPETITION. It hung behind a gray table, and beside it, a chair which was decorated with numerous designs was propped against the cement walls. Another table stood, and on it was orange like envelopes which contained the certificates for each of the participants.

There were many achievers, and the first, second, and third place winners each get tempting presents. The first place get laptops, second a Wii console, and the third an I-pod! Even the mayor came! He made a speech about how happy he was to come, and was given a plaque. During and at the end of the competition, the announcer asked questions, and everyone had the chance to get a prize. Even if we didn’t win, it doesn’t mean we didn’t try. There’s no such thing as losing. We’re all winners.
Sr. Rahma Mbarki
Baytul-Iman Academy Grade 6 Student