Amar Abass, Youth Ambassador and community advocate from Blackburn recently attended a month long course at Oxford University. Young Muslims from across the world came together to discuss issues facing Muslims across the world from poverty, war to globalisation and Islamaphobia.

The event, entitled Oxford Muntada, was organised by the British Council and the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies. World re-known academics came especially to address the young Muslims and enter into dialogue with them.

"It was an excellent opportunity to meet other young Muslims from across the globe from the Philippines, South Africa and Israel to name a few. I learnt a great deal from them and vice-versa too. We shared experiences and views on many topical issues. This was a once in a lifetime experience for me and I shall be going back to my community and sharing what I have learnt. I hope opportunities like this occur more often and more and more young people attend them. It's a real eye opener!" stated Amar Abass.

Candidates were selected on the basis of 'Young future leaders of tomorrow'. Amar was the only candidate selected to represent the U.K. at the event after a vigorous interview process. He has been a very good representative for the area as he has also interviewed Colin Powell live on MTV, attended the United Nations conference in South Africa representing the U.K. and is a UK Youth Parliament Ambassador.