I am extremely grateful to have been awarded the AGM Randeree Scholarship 2023 which will allow me to continue my studies at the University of Cambridge. I am humbled at the opportunity to extend my academic interests while developing theological, intellectual and spiritual skills and knowledge.
While my academic background began in the Geographic field, my interest in cultural and historical geography led me to the MPhil Heritage Studies course. This was also informed by previous professional and voluntary experience working at various historic homes and parklands across the UK. Despite my interest in British history and historical sites I often struggled to identify and connect with these spaces at a deeper level. Having been born in Indonesia and moving to the UK at a young age, I began to question what ‘British heritage’ may mean for young British Muslims and other minority groups.
With the support of the AGM Randeree Scholarship programme, I hope to understand how Muslim communities can engage with British history and heritage, as well as their own Muslim and cultural heritage. In doing so, I hope to uncover how a British Muslim Heritage is understood and cultivated within Muslim communities and beyond.