On 2 November, 2026, the Hall of Gerda Phillips, Center of Learning, echoed with dignity, love, culture, and respect as Miles2Smile celebrated the Dignity Day of Refugees and those belonging to the marginalized sections of our society.
At Miles2Smile, we celebrate Dignity Day to honor the refugees and marginalized sections of society, making them feel loved, respected, and seen. These people, over the years, have faced brutal persecution over their identity.
The event started on a serene note, with the recitation of the Quran, entering into the hearts of the audience, soothing them beautifully. As the recitation came to an end, an expression of gratitude was presented in the form of a bouquet to our chief guest, Mr. C.K. Subair, National Secretary, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), and Aasif Mujtaba, Founder & Director, Miles2Smile.
Following this, Muhammad Imran, a student from the Nuh learning center, came up on the stage to perform a heartwarming Naat, filling the air with warmth and prosperity.
“The voice is so beautiful, so mesmerizing,” a child from the audience said, peeping from the side, with a bright smile.
After a while, came a cultural anthem by Refugees, depicting their culture, life, love, and belonging for their home country.
“We will always have immense love for our home country and our culture we are deprived of,” a refugee student said.
“We have been deprived of what we truly love. We have faced immense hardship. And this performance is truly in remembrance of our culture and our yearning for our homeland,” the teacher of the Nuh Learning Center said.
Following the cultural performance came a group performance by students of the Gerda Phillipsborn Center of Learning on the vocals, “Hum Betiyan Islam ki Betiyan.”
The girls with gestures sang the vocals and celebrated the gratitude of the love received in Islam for women. Young girls with colorful dresses acted with the vocals and caught the eyes of their learning center mates. A huge round of applause erupted as it came to an end, hovering in the air of the learning center.
Continuing the event, Isbaa Parveen, a student of Bi Amma Learning Center, held the mic and performed a Naat—”Dil Mein Ishq e Nabi Ki Ho Aisi Lagan.” The Naath and the confidence of the young student enchanted the audience.
Report Card and Certificate Distribution
As the performance concluded, another important aspect of the show occurred. – The Report Card and Certificate Distribution Ceremony. Over the term, the students at the learning centers burnt the midnight lamp to excel in their performance, and their report card paid it off.
Students were called onto the stage one by one and presented with their report cards. Shortly afterwards, certificates were distributed to the participants in recognition of their contribution to making the event memorable.
Moving forward, Aasif Mujtaba, Founder & Director, Miles2Smile, delivered words of motivation.
“Refugees are the most persecuted. Their living conditions, literacy levels, and health indicators are among the worst. Yet, we have stopped speaking up for them. We remain silent until the oppression is directed at us,” Mujtaba said.
“As long as we do not stand against the oppressor and alongside the oppressed, we will continue to face oppression ourselves,” he added.
“This center stands as a testament to the fact that even today, there are people who dare to stand against oppression and alongside the oppressed,” Mujtaba said.
“The growth and success of this center today are a result of the collective support and efforts of each one of you,” he added.
Continuing the words of motivation, Chief Guest, Mr. C.K. Subair, National Secretary, Indian Union Muslim League, delivered his remarks.
“Every human being has the ability to overcome challenges and achieve greatness,” he said.
“Although refugees often begin life in difficult circumstances, this center, by the will of Allah, will open doors to new opportunities and help you build a brighter future,” he added.
Concluding the event, a facilitation ceremony was conducted, and a shawl was donned to our chief guest, celebrating his presence at the event.
About Miles2Smile: Established six years ago, the Miles2Smile Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on marginalized communities in India. From the crisis response during the pandemic to ongoing efforts in education and advocacy, the foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.
About Gerda Philipsborn Center of Learning: The Gerda Philipsborn Center of Learning is a dedicated skill development initiative established by the Miles2Smile Foundation to uplift children, youth, and women from underserved and crisis-affected communities. Named in honour of Gerda Philipsborn—a compassionate humanitarian remembered for her unwavering service to vulnerable children—the centre reflects her legacy of care, resilience, and equal opportunity. Through structured training, holistic support, and a nurturing environment, the centre strives to equip learners with practical skills, confidence, and pathways to independence, ensuring that hope and opportunity reach those who need them most.
Other Glimpses of the Event
