As the soft glow of twilight descends upon the historic campus of the University of British Columbia, a unique gathering of inquisitive minds will convene to explore an often overlooked aspect of our shared heritage. On July 14, 2023, from 5pm to 8pm, we invite you to immerse yourself in an enlightening conference, “A Legacy of Excellence: How Islam Helped Shape Modern Civilization”.

In the grand narrative of history, certain voices have echoed louder than others. Some have been amplified by the megaphone of contemporary society, while others have become barely audible whispers. This conference aims to turn up the volume on one such whisper, amplifying the stories of the significant contributions made by Muslims and Arabs across numerous disciplines that have been instrumental in shaping the contours of our modern civilization.

We live in an era that has been largely defined by scientific advancements, social transformations, educational progress, and cultural syntheses. Beneath the surface of these advancements lies a rich seam of Islamic influence. From the cryptic symbols in mathematics to the elegant arches of our grandest buildings, from the early scholarly discourses in the ancient madrasas to the development of advanced surgical techniques, the golden age of Islamic civilization has left a profound and enduring legacy.

Despite the magnitude of these contributions, they often fade into the backdrop of collective consciousness, obscured by the shadows of misunderstanding and misinformation. This conference seeks to bring them to the forefront, providing an illuminating exploration of the Islamic legacy that has been woven into the very fabric of our society. It is our mission to enlighten, educate, and inspire.