Canada: Shaykh Hammad Mustafa al-Madani al-Qadri delivered a lecture at Al-Hidayah 2026. The topic of the discussion was “Who is Shaping You? Friends, Social Media, and the Journey from Righteous Companionship to the Company of Allah”

In this session, Shaykh Hammad Mustafa al-Madani al-Qadri highlighted an important question: Who is shaping us? Every individual is influenced by their surroundings, relationships, ideas, and the content they engage with. The key is to recognise whether these influences are bringing us closer to Allah or taking us away from Him.

A major focus was the importance of good companionship (suhbah). The people we spend time with have a lasting impact on our character, values, and spiritual journey. Righteous company inspires us towards goodness, while negative influences can affect our direction.

The discussion also addressed the impact of social media and modern technology, explaining how online platforms, algorithms, and public figures can shape our thoughts and priorities. We were encouraged to be conscious of what we consume and who we allow to influence us.

Shaykh Hammad emphasised the importance of choosing the right role models and guides, looking towards the Prophet ﷺ, scholars, and righteous people who help us strengthen our connection with Allah.

He also reminded us that our thoughts and habits shape our actions. By developing consistent habits of Qur’an, dhikr, worship, and learning, we can gradually transform ourselves.

The session concluded with the reminder that righteous gatherings carry immense blessings. Remaining in the company of those who remember Allah can become a means of mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual growth.

Shaykh Ahmad Mustafa al-Arabi al-Qadri, Dr Faisal Iqbal Khan, Syed Shahzad Ali Faizi, Syed Saad Ali Faizi, Syed Soban Ali Faizi, Dr Ghazala Qadri (President of Minhaj-ul-Quran Women League International), and Baji Khadija Qurat-ul-Ain Qadri also attended the lecture.