Apa Bibi Aa’isha’s journey began at Mufti Bhoola’s madrasa in Crosby, Johannesburg, where she studied aalima. She completed  hifz  studies at the wife of Mufti Zaid Rangila 

Apa Bibi Aa’isha’s passion for teaching led her to start educating a special needs girl in her home lounge. During local gusht,  two siblings whose father had passed away were added to the madressa, and their mother, a new Muslim, had no knowledge of Islamic education. Despite the challenges, Apa Bibi Aa’isha took on the responsibility to guide them  

With the help of a generous benefactor, a nearby space was secured, and the new madrasa and musalla were established. Apa Bibi Aa’isha’s unconventional teaching methods, which included outdoor classes and play-based learning,  where they learned on the swings, or sitting on the grass, created a nurturing environment where children with special needs felt accepted and valued. 

The madrasa soon became known for its inclusive approach, catering to students with ADD, ADHD, autism, and those from troubled backgrounds. Apa Bibi Aisha’s dedication and innovative approach have made a significant impact on the lives of countless children. 

To further expand her reach, Apa Bibi Aa’ishas learned sign language, enabling her to teach deaf students. Her first deaf student memorized Surah Fatiha in sign language and even participated in a jalsa,  demonstrated the surah flawlessly. 

Apa  Aa’ishas dedication to serving the community knows no bounds. She took a remarkable leap of faith by marrying a supportive revert husband,and moving to another country where deen is minimal and not openly practiced. Her husband  has been a pillar of strength in her endeavors. Despite facing challenges and scrutiny from the government, she remained committed to her mission. 

Initially, she was offered a teaching position at a local masjid, but due to her unique approach, she was asked to leave. Undeterred, she continued teaching a handful of students from her home, and over the past 13 years, her madrasa has grown exponentially from 5 to over 200 students. The madrasa operates 6 days a week,  

• Monday iman muzakirah 
• Tuesday hifz students  
• Wednesday ladies taleem 
• Thursday hifz and madressa  
• Friday smaller kids classes  
• Saturday full day from 7 am to 7 pm madressa in sessions  

Recently some of her former students have become assistants. 

Apa Bibi Aisha’s contributions are multifaceted: 

• She teaches all year groups herself, showcasing her unwavering commitment.
• She translated various resources and textbooks into her local language , based on the south african Tasheel series, to cater to the diverse needs of her students.
• She developed her own syllabus, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging curriculum.
• She arranges Jalsahs and other community events, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.
• She even performs Janazah washing and other community services, demonstrating her compassion and selflessness. 

All this while juggling mom life, making people muslim, being her own ‘sanha’ and being one of the only niqabis in the city, she sure gets unwanted attention  

Despite the challenges and risks involved, Apa Bibi Aa’isha remains a beacon of hope and resilience. Her dedication to preserving Deen in a country where she and anyone practicing deen is strictly monitored is truly inspiring. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, faith, and community.