A Journey Worth Every Mile: Eisa’s Gift of Salah

Written by Kamal Ali, Founder of My Salah Mat

As the founder of My Salah Mat, I’ve had the honour of witnessing the impact our products have had on families around the world. But every now and then, a story reaches me that touches the heart in a different way—one that reminds me why we began this journey in the first place.

This is one of those stories.

Recently, I travelled from Newport to Bradford—six long hours through traffic—but every minute was worth it. I went to meet someone truly special: Eisa, a young boy with Down syndrome, and his remarkable mother, Shabs. In this blessed month of Ramadan, the two of them have inspired something incredible: giving over 100 children with disabilities the opportunity to experience the beauty of Salah.

From One Prayer Mat to One Hundred

It all began with a single donation—one interactive prayer mat gifted to a child with Down syndrome. Just three weeks later, thanks to generous donors and passionate individuals, that one mat became one hundred.

That’s 100 children with additional needs now connected to Salah.
100 new paths to worship.
100 hearts closer to Allah ﷻ.

Creating Space for Every Child

In our conversation, Shabs shared something that struck me deeply. She explained how children with disabilities are often overlooked when it comes to religious practice. Many assume that because these children aren’t obligated to pray, they don’t need to.

But the reality is—they want to.

They want to hear the Qur’an. They want to perform sujood. They want to connect with their Creator.

Our communities, including our mosques, need to recognise that and create inclusive spaces for them to grow spiritually.

A Tool That Opens the Door to Salah

At the heart of this movement is the My Salah Mat Interactive Prayer Mat.

It’s sensory, engaging, and easy to use—making it ideal for children with additional needs. It responds to touch, teaches Arabic letters, beginner words, and recites Surahs and duas aloud.

For many of these children, the mat is more than a product. It’s an invitation.
A door that welcomes them into the world of worship—on their terms, in their own time.

A Personal Reflection

This project stirred something personal in me. My own sister was born with a mental disability. She is partially blind, physically limited, and cannot communicate. But she is light. Pure, loving, and deeply connected in ways many people overlook.

When I met the children in Bradford, I saw that same light shining in their faces. Their hearts were open, their joy radiant. And I knew—this is what we are meant to nurture.

Real People, Real Sincerity

Throughout the day, I also met the sponsors who supported this project. Their generosity was humble, sincere, and for the sake of Allah alone. They didn’t give for praise. They gave for reward—from the One who sees all.

We ended with a beautiful Iftar at Nawab Restaurant, one of the sponsors. It was the perfect close to an unforgettable day.

The Documentary Is Here

What Shabs and Eisa began has already sparked something powerful — and now, their story has been captured on film.

The documentary is complete, and we’re honoured to share it with the world. It’s a story of compassion, inclusion, and the incredible impact one family can have when they lead with love and purpose.

We invite you to watch and share this film with your friends, family, and local mosques — because this message deserves to reach every community.

Insha’Allah, through this effort, we can continue to support children with additional needs in building their relationship with Allah ﷻ — through Salah, through community, and through the tools that truly meet their needs.

A Message to Every Parent and Educator

If you know a child with additional needs, please know this: they deserve access to the same beauty of Islam as any other child. They deserve tools tailored to them. They deserve the opportunity to connect with their Lord.

This journey reminded me why My Salah Mat exists. It’s not just a product. It’s a means for inclusion, belonging, and spiritual growth—for all children, no matter their needs.

May Allah accept this effort, and guide us to serve even more. Ameen.

With gratitude,
Kamal Ali
Founder, My Salah Mat