Our mission

about us

Promoting Unity Within the Muslim Community

The Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ) is a national organisation dedicated to supporting Muslim women across the country. It was founded in 1990 to provide a strong network and address the specific needs of Muslim women in New Zealand.

Membership is open to all Muslim women in New Zealand. The Administrative Council acts as the National Executive Board, while regional Muslim groups nominate representatives each year to sit on the full IWCNZ Council.

IWCNZ represents the voices of Muslim women and girls, and works actively with other groups to promote unity and strengthen the Muslim community (Ummah) throughout New Zealand.

vision mission

Working together to nurture a thriving community of Muslim women in Aotearoa, guided by faith and sisterhood.

Our Vision: Empowering Mulsim women to Lead and grow

Muslim women striving to reach their full potential through active participation, collaboration, and leadership in community life across Aotearoa New Zealand, guided by the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Mohammed ﷺ (peace be upon him).

Our mission: To Guide, inspire, and build community.

To continuously strive to coordinate and deliver initiatives that provide support, guidance, and meaningful opportunities for personal growth and development for all sisters in Islam, inspired by the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and rooted in service to the community

oldest member
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Our oldest member is Mary Thompson, who is 95 years old and has been attending since 1945.

youth retreats
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Our oldest member is Mary Thompson, who is 95 years old and has been attending since 1945.

tech workshops
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Our oldest member is Mary Thompson, who is 95 years old and has been attending since 1945.

christmas concert
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Our oldest member is Mary Thompson, who is 95 years old and has been attending since 1945.

our team

Meet Our Team

Munira Khanum

National Coordinator of IWCNZ

Dr. Maysoon Salama

Emeritus National Coordinator

Shahida Bhamji

Assistant National Coordinator

Aliya Danzeisen

Emeritus National Coordinator

“As a muslim revert it really helped me and my friend to have a chance of belonging and understanding islam as it’s hard to find people who welcome you wholeheartedly. And having a community like this for women will really help other muslimah gain knowledge, have fun and a safe space for them“.

“IWCNZ has allowed me the opportunity to connect with other like minded sisters around New Zealand who I wouldn’t have met if it wasn’t for the conferences and the youth one in particular “

“I attended the Muslim women’s-only conference last year, and the experience was so incredible that I am eager to attend again. The conference was profoundly enriching, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds to connect, share stories, and build meaningful networks. It provided a supportive environment where we could unwind, learn, and grow together through insightful workshops and shared experiences. It served as a much-needed respite, offering spiritual and professional development alongside a strong sense of community and empowerment. I left feeling inspired, rejuvenated, and more connected to both myself and the women around me.”

OUR IMPACT

Your generosity makes a profound impact

The Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ) caters specifically to the needs of Muslim women across Aotearoa. Founded in 1990, all Muslim women in NZ are considered members. Regional groups nominate reps to the national council.

Local activities include:

  • Community development, youth development, online zoom sessions and leadership courses

National programmes include:

  • Annual women’s conference
  • Youth camps and roadshows
  • Educational and empowerment workshops

IWCNZ also collaborates with NZ Police, Ministry of Ethnic Affairs, Ministry of Women and Ministry of Social development as well as other government and interfaith organisations. 

our core value

Foundations of Our Faith and Community Life

We demonstrate love through compassionate service, supportive relationships, and inclusive community practices.

We demonstrate love through compassionate service, supportive relationships, and inclusive community practices.

We demonstrate love through compassionate service, supportive relationships, and inclusive community practices.

We demonstrate love through compassionate service, supportive relationships, and inclusive community practices.

We demonstrate love through compassionate service, supportive relationships, and inclusive community practices.

Get Updates

Want to stay connected with us? Join our mailing list and be the first to hear about upcoming events, opportunities and news. Email your contact details to community@iwcnz.org.nz, or submit through our form to be added to our database!

Empowering Muslim Women Across New Zealand

Join a growing community of Muslim women who are passionate about support, connection, growth, and representation. As a member of the Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ), you’ll be part of a nationwide network working together to make a difference in our communities.

Empowering Muslim Women Across New Zealand

Join a growing community of Muslim women who are passionate about support, connection, growth, and representation. As a member of the Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ), you’ll be part of a nationwide network working together to make a difference in our communities.

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Support Our Work

Support the work of the Islamic Women’s Council New Zealand (IWCNZ) by making a donation today. Your contribution helps us empower women, support families in need, and drive meaningful community initiatives across New Zealand. Every dollar makes a difference.