By Yussuf Amatulhafeez
We got to the stand and met with Mrs Halimah Adepoju, the second officer in charge of the Tajneed Department and we learnt that she has been volunteering for over a decade. We knew we just had to hear what she had to tell us.
JC: Salam Alaikum Waramatullah Wabarakathuh.
Mrs. Adepoju: Wa Alaikum Salam Waramatullah Wabarakathuh.
JC: Mrs. Adepoju, how long have you been volunteering in the Tajneed Department?
Mrs. Adepoju: It’s been a long time—more than 20 years now, Alhamdulillah.
JC: That’s a remarkable commitment. Can you tell us more about your roles and responsibilities in the department?
Mrs Adepoju: Our main responsibility is ensuring that every attendee of Jalsa Salana is registered and checked in so we can maintain an accurate count of participants. As Amir Sahib often says, the Tajneed Department is the lifeline of Jalsa Salana. We also handle publicity months before the event to remind people to register and keep track of all registered vehicles during Jalsa.
JC: You must start your work well before Jalsa begins. When do you and your team typically arrive?
Mrs. Adepoju: Most of us arrive about a week before Jalsa, and we leave Sunday evening after everything is wrapped up.
JC: What inspired you to dedicate yourself to the Tajneed Department?
Mrs. Adepoju: Alhamdulillah, as Ahmadis and Muslims, we are taught to dedicate ourselves to the cause of Allah. Reading about the Sahabas and their devotion to Islam and the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) motivates me to contribute whenever and however I can.
JC: That’s inspiring. However, with such significant responsibilities, there must be challenges. What are some of the difficulties you face?
Mrs. Adepoju: One major challenge is encouraging people to register before arriving at Jalsa. Despite months of reminders, some still show up unregistered. Another issue is ensuring everyone checks in at the designated entrances. Sometimes attendees enter through other routes, which affects our records.
JC: How do you plan to address these challenges in the future?Mrs. Adepoju: We plan to intensify our publicity efforts to emphasize the importance of registration. Additionally, we’re working with the security team to ensure all attendees use the approved entrances for proper check-in. Our officers will also be more proactive on the grounds to make sure everyone is accounted for.
JC: What is your favourite part about working in the Tajneed Department?
Mrs. Adepoju: I love everything about it. Welcoming the guests of Imam Mahdi (as) fills me with joy. I always remind my team to greet everyone with a warm smile because, as it is said, ‘Smile—it’s Sunnah.’
JC: After more than two decades of service, do you have any particularly memorable moments?
Mrs. Adepoju: Yes, there is one that stands out. A few years ago, we were working tirelessly behind Amir Sahib’s house. On the second morning of Jalsa, after Fajr prayer, Amir Sahib came to us and greeted us warmly. He acknowledged our hard work, appreciated our efforts, and prayed for us. That moment touched me deeply because it reminded me that while we work for Allah’s pleasure, recognition like that reassures us that our efforts are seen and valued.
JC: Jazak’Allah Khairan for sharing your experiences and insights.
