Ramadan Tent Project (RTP) has long been one of my favourite social impact organisations. So it was a pleasure to catch up with its Founder and Chief Executive, Omar Salha, for the latest episode of In Good Faith.
In our conversation, Omar not only gave a useful theoretical introduction to the concepts of cultural diplomacy, soft power and social capital, but illustrated his points with stories from his own experience as well as from the past. In addition to the themes of belonging and integration, Omar also provided insight into the evolution of RTP thus far as well as its likely trajectory going forward.
Omar is one of a rare breed of leaders who have had the ability to build institutions alongside achieving academic prowess. Amongst other accomplishments, Omar was awarded the PhD Nohoudh Scholarship at SOAS University of London for the study of the integration of Muslims in British society.
Follow Omar here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omarsalha/
Check out Ramadan Tent Project here: https://www.ramadantentproject.com
(0:00) Trailer
(1:02) What is cultural diplomacy?
(9:50) Soft power and social capital
(24:17) Belonging and integration
(36:38) Muslim interest vs public interest
(41:24) Stories of service and soft power
(50:19) About Ramadan Tent Project
(1:04:53) How to scale RTP
(1:19:11) The challenge of fundraising
(1:28:40) Powerful leadership lessons
