The development of Kiwi Crescent Connection (KCC) has been informed by a range of scholarly, digital, and creative contributions. I wish to formally acknowledge the support received throughout the planning, research, and construction of this digital platform.
I extend my deepest appreciation to my mother, my husband, my children, and my wider family, whose patience, encouragement, and belief in my purpose sustained me throughout this journey. Their support created space for moments of reflection and determination. I also carry the memory of my late father, whose values and guidance continue to inspire my journey.
I acknowledge the emotional complexity of this process. At times, the absence of expected support or moments of discouragement became an unexpected source of clarity. These experiences challenged me to respond with resilience, reflection, and a commitment to build something constructive. This project, in many ways, is a response grounded in purpose and guided by hope.
In the digital realm, I acknowledge the use of AI-assisted tools, most notably ChatGPT by OpenAI, which provided editorial support and design assistance. This tool has been employed in the development of this project as a complementary aid, and its contribution is recognised here in the interest of academic transparency and ethical research practice.
KCC stands as a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community, both seen and unseen, and it is my hope that it will contribute meaningfully to the understanding of Muslim histories and identities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Acknowledging My Academic Roots
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan (GCUF), my beloved alma mater, where my academic journey first took shape. Although my learning began in school, it was within those historic halls that I discovered the true power of learning and the confidence to pursue knowledge with purpose. I was awarded a Gold Medal in my MSc, an achievement that reflected both the guidance I received and my dedication to study.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan (GCUF), my beloved alma mater, where my academic journey first took shape. Although my learning began in school, it was within those historic halls that I discovered the true power of learning and the confidence to pursue knowledge with purpose. I was awarded a Gold Medal in my MSc, an achievement that reflected both the guidance I received and my dedication to study.
GCUF not only gave me the privilege of being a student but also entrusted me with opportunities to teach, grow, and serve. I was honored to receive a PhD scholarship under GCUF’s Faculty Development Programme , which enabled me to pursue my doctoral studies. Though circumstances beyond my control led me to step back from my role as an academic, I carry with me the pride of having been part of an institution that nurtured my aspirations and marked a turning point in my life.
I came to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2015 and earned my PhD in History from the University of Canterbury (UC) in Christchurch. I carry with me the pride of having been part of these two institutions that shaped my thinking, strengthened my voice, and reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education.
I remain proud to be a daughter of this academic legacy and hope that, through my ongoing research and contributions, I will continue to reflect the excellence and values instilled in me by both UC and GCUF. With this project, I aim to contribute in a way that honors the strength of the academic roots I proudly claim.