I’m a level 7 solicitor apprentice at rradar. I graduated from the University of Huddersfield in July 2024 with a first-class honours degree in law, an achievement of which I’m incredibly proud. My excitement only grew when I secured my apprenticeship with rradar, officially joining the firm in September 2024.

The past six months have been nothing short of a dream come true. From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a legal career. I’ve always been a naturally inquisitive person with a passion for problem-solving – what better way to channel that than by tackling complex legal issues that make a real difference in clients’ lives.

As a Muslim and a solicitor apprentice, this time of year holds special significance for me as Ramadan has started [Ramadan ended this week]. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is a time of fasting. Balancing professional responsibilities while observing Ramadan was a unique challenge, but one I was fully prepared to embrace.

A powerful lesson of Ramadan is the reminder of how much we take for granted. It pushes me to appreciate what I have and motivates me to help those in need

Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, known as Sawm (fasting). It’s a month when Muslims around the world abstain from food and drink from the pre-dawn prayer (Fajr) to the sunset prayer (Maghrib). But beyond fasting, Ramadan is a time for deep self-reflection, spiritual renewal and increased mindfulness for those who are less fortunate. While we voluntarily refrain from eating and drinking during these hours, we are reminded that many people experience this hardship daily.

Ramadan is a chance to reconnect with my faith and its core values. It’s a time to practise patience, self-discipline and break bad habits, as we’re encouraged to strengthen our character throughout the month.

One of the most powerful lessons of Ramadan is the reminder of how much we take for granted. It pushes me to appreciate what I have and motivates me to help those in need. Contributing, even in small ways, not only fosters personal growth but also makes a meaningful impact on the world around me. Knowing that I can play a role, however small, in creating positive change is something I cherish.

Fasting during Ramadan starts with Taraweeh prayers. These late-evening prayers mark the beginning of my commitment to fast the following day. After Taraweeh, I usually head to bed, knowing I’ll wake up a few hours later for Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal that serves as my breakfast before fasting begins. This year, Pancake Day happened to fall at the start of Ramadan, so at 4am my family and I kept our tradition alive by making pancakes together. It’s little moments like these that remind me how Ramadan doesn’t disrupt our daily lives but instead teaches us adaptability and resilience. Once the Fajr prayer begins, Suhoor ends and the fast officially starts.

This year, I’ve had the opportunity to balance fasting with my role as a solicitor apprentice. I initially thought this would be challenging but with the support of my team and my own determination, I’ve seen my productivity soar. As sunset approaches, it’s time for Iftar, the meal where we break our fast. My family and I come together to prepare dishes, making this a time of connection and togetherness.

After Maghrib (the sunset prayer), I have some time before Isha (the final obligatory prayer) and Taraweeh. I usually spend this time unwinding, watching a show on Netflix with my family, reading the Quran or reflecting on my day.

Each year, I set a goal to complete reading the entire Quran. It is divided into 30 sections, making it perfect for the 30 days of Ramadan. Reading the Quran is deeply meaningful to me. One lesson that has always resonated with me is the emphasis on learning and knowledge. The first word revealed to prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was ‘Read’, reinforcing the value of curiosity and lifelong learning in Islam. This passion for knowledge is one reason I was drawn to a legal career.

Once Ramadan ends, we celebrate Eid-Ul-Fitr, a joyous occasion marking the completion of the month. In my family, we exchange gifts and come together for a feast. Eid is a time to celebrate and reflect on the lessons we’ve learned throughout Ramadan and carry them with us for the rest of the year. Ramadan is not just about fasting, it’s about growth, reflection and strengthening our faith and relationships.

Zaib Kosser is an apprentice solicitor at rradar, Leeds

 

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