Our Story and Team
Islamic Lifestyle Solutions Aotearoa is led by Hafiz Aslam Ismail and Ustadhah Aneesah Baig, supported by a wider ILS Aotearoa team, based in Wellington. All operations are fulfilled by this team working together.
The ILS Aotearoa team
Our team is a group of dedicated brothers and sisters who share the same vision for clear, structured teaching of Islamic studies in Aotearoa. They give their time quietly after work and with family commitments, handling enrolments, communication and design, Google Classroom and tech, safeguarding and the planning of community events. Their calm presence, good manners, and respect for confidentiality help us serve our learners with care. We consult with them on major decisions and value their honest advice and steady support. Much of what is seen in class rests on hours of unseen effort, and we ask Allah Almighty to reward them and their families for every minute. Aameen! With their help, the intention that began before we moved to Aotearoa has taken shape here, and Our Story below explains that journey.
Our teachers and Shura
In accordance with the Prophetic way, decisions at ILS Aotearoa are always made after consultation. We take guidance from our teachers at Islamic Lifestyle Solutions (Durban, South Africa). The ILS Aotearoa team also meet regularly, listen carefully to different viewpoints and choose ultimately what best serves students and families. This counsel helps maintain our classes, respond to sensitive questions and keep our spiritual gatherings clear, balanced and beneficial.
Hafiz Aslam Ismail
Principal educator, Hafiz of the Qur’an and public speaker, yet always a student of Islam. Subjects taught include Qur’an recitation with Tajweed (rules of recitation), basic Fiqh (jurisprudence), ʿAqidah (creed), and Adab (character and conduct) in a clear and organised way. With more than 20 years of community work, locally and abroad, learners are assisted in building confident reading, practical understanding and good character. Classes move at a steady pace, encourage thoughtful questions and include a light touch of humour. Beginners and new Muslims are supported with patience, and families are guided on how to continue learning at home. Teaching methodology takes guidance from our teachers and focuses on helping students live what they learn.
Ustadhah Aneesah Baig
Children’s Islamic educator. Patient yet detail oriented, young learners are given the building blocks they need to read the Qur’an, practice daily supplications and prayers, and grow in character. Lessons are shorter and structured with clear routines that help children feel safe and enjoy learning. Parents receive simple home prompts and regular updates so class and home work together at a calm, steady pace.
Ustadhah Aneesah has years of experience teaching children in community settings and a natural love for helping little hearts grow. The classroom culture is kind and orderly, with gentle correction and plenty of encouragement. The aim: to nurture love for Allah Almighty and His Messenger (peace be upon him), good character, and a lasting confidence in learning.