About Us
Our history, our values and the people who bring the centre to life.
From a small prayer room to a community centre
Marqazi Masjid Minhaj ul Quran Cento was founded in 2013 on the initiative of a group of Muslim families living in Cento and the neighbouring municipalities of the province of Ferrara. The wish was simple but profound: to have a dignified place for prayer and a meeting point for the community.
In a few years, what was a small rented space turned into a well-organised community centre, with a spacious prayer hall, a multipurpose events hall, an equipped garden for children and a paperwork guidance help desk.
Today Marqazi Masjid Minhaj ul Quran is an interlocutor recognised by the local institutions and actively collaborates with the Municipality of Cento, the schools of the area and several volunteer associations.
Foundation
A group of 30 families founds the association and rents the first prayer space in Via Ugo Bassi.
First stable premises
Lease of the current premises in Via Don Giovanni Minzoni 8/3. Opening of the main prayer hall.
Paperwork help desk
Launch of the free support service for documents, residence permits and administrative procedures.
Events hall and courses
Inauguration of the 120-seat multipurpose hall. Start of the Italian and Qur'an courses for adults and children.
Garden and children's area
Renovation of the outdoor area with the installation of safe play spaces for children.
Digital portal
Launch of the online portal for booking the events hall and paperwork consultations.
Principles that guide our every action
Every service we offer, every space we manage, every activity we organise stems from these core values.
Peace and respect
We believe in interfaith dialogue and mutual respect as the foundation of civil coexistence. We are open to everyone, without distinction.
Service to the community
Our centre exists to serve. Every activity is designed to answer real needs: spiritual, educational, administrative and social.
Knowledge and education
Education is a pillar of Islam and a duty towards the new generations. We invest in courses, books and learning spaces.
Active integration
We are citizens of Cento even before being Muslims. We take part in public life and collaborate with the local institutions.
Family at the centre
Every decision takes into account the wellbeing of families: safe spaces for children, support for mothers, a listening ear for the elderly.
Sustainability and care
We manage our premises with respect for the environment. The garden, the green spaces and sustainable practices are part of our identity.
The Board of Directors
The people who lead the centre with passion and competence.
Ahmed Al-Rashidi
PresidentA resident of Cento for 20 years, entrepreneur. He has led the centre since its foundation.
Fatima Benali
Vice-presidentPrimary school teacher, coordinator of the courses and activities for children.
Youssef Marzouki
Head of ServicesLawyer, coordinates the paperwork and legal support help desk.
Aisha Oumarou
SecretaryIn charge of communication and of managing relations with the families.
Together with the community of Cento
Comune di Cento
Institutional partner for social integration programmes
Istituti Scolastici
Collaboration with the schools of Cento for intercultural education
ASL Ferrara
Cultural mediation project for access to health services
Caritas Cento
Joint solidarity initiatives and support for families in difficulty