IMAM
Gamal Fouda
Beginning
Born in Egypt, Gamal Fouda earned a Theology degree from Al‑Azhar University in Cairo in 1998. He then pursued a Primary Teaching Degree at Otago University, Dunedin, graduating in 2010, before serving as a teacher in Palmerston North and Manawatū.
Journey to New Zealand
In 2003, Egypt’s Ministry of Religious Affairs sent him to New Zealand, a decision shaped by the global post‑9/11 climate. Initially based in Palmerston North, he later served as the Imam in Dunedin for several years before becoming the Imam of Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch.
Christchurch Mosque Attack
On 15 March 2019, while delivering Friday prayers at Al Noor Mosque, a gunman attacked, killing 42 people there and a further nine at the nearby Linwood Islamic Centre. Imam Fouda survived but lost many in his congregation. The tragedy claimed 51 lives in total.
Message of Unity and Healing
A week later, he delivered a profound message in Hagley Park, declaring that hate would not divide New Zealand and proclaiming:
Imam Gamal Fouda
“We are broken‑hearted, but we are not broken. We are alive, we are together … we are determined to love one another.”
He consistently emphasised that the victims were not only martyrs of Islam, but also of New Zealand’s national unity.
His message —”evil ideology will never triumph over love and unity”— has resonated internationally, including at the World Tolerance Summit in the UAE.
Civic Engagement
In October 2019, Fouda was elected to the Halswell–Hornby–Riccarton Community Board in Christchurch, using his position to promote social cohesion, tolerance, and dialogue across communities.
Legacy
Recognised as a powerful voice of compassion and resilience, Imam Gamal became a national symbol of healing. Six years after the attacks, he announced his decision to leave New Zealand for a new role in Australia, calling his time in Christchurch “one of the greatest honours of his life”.
Current Role
In April 2025, Imam Gamal became the Imam of Kuraby Mosque. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. Imam Gamal continues to work tirelessly to strengthen the community, foster dialogue, build bridges, and advocate for peace and inclusion. His wisdom has inspired leaders across the globe, and now, we are privileged to have him as part of our community in Australia.
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