UPDATE: The Australian Islamic Medical Association QLD Chapter has just hosted an impactful two-day program titled “From Riba to Rizq: Financial Management After Graduation,” aimed at empowering Muslim healthcare professionals. Held on 30 August 2025 at Griffith University Gold Coast and 31 August 2025 at University of Queensland, the program attracted over 50 participants, highlighting a pressing need for financial literacy among new graduates.
This initiative, in collaboration with SoulSeed, addressed a significant gap in healthcare education: the lack of financial management training. Many medical, dental, and allied health students transition from financial scarcity during their studies to substantial incomes upon graduation, yet they often lack the tools and knowledge to manage their newfound wealth ethically and effectively.
The program featured two prominent speakers, including Dr. Salim Memon, a Staff Specialist in General Medicine, who shared invaluable insights on balancing patient care with financial realities. His candid reflections on personal financial errors resonated deeply with attendees, offering real-world advice on navigating the financial landscape as a healthcare professional.
On the second day, Almir Colan, Founder of Muslim Money Matters, led discussions on halal wealth principles, focusing on ethical investing and long-term financial strategies. His guidance provided participants with practical tools to align their financial decisions with Islamic values, addressing critical topics such as the distinction between riba and rizq and strategies for building wealth responsibly.
Participants engaged in interactive workshops that prompted them to rethink their approach to wealth management. They explored essential questions regarding the ethical use of money and its role in community support. One attendee remarked, “The speakers were thought-provoking. They challenged us to consider what lasting impact we want to achieve with our careers and our earnings.”
The event not only prioritized financial knowledge but also encouraged personal and professional development. Attendees took part in networking opportunities and received professional headshots, enhancing their career prospects while fostering a collaborative community atmosphere.
With a clear demand for such initiatives among Muslim professionals, the success of “From Riba to Rizq” underscores the urgency for more financial education tailored to Islamic principles within Australia’s healthcare sector. As one participant articulated, the weekend was about “how to use money wisely, ethically, and with purpose,” emphasizing the program’s holistic approach to financial literacy.
This program signifies a crucial step in bridging the gap between faith and finance, equipping future healthcare leaders with the skills and spiritual grounding necessary to navigate their careers. As financial literacy becomes increasingly vital, the Australian Islamic Medical Association and its partners are setting a precedent for future educational initiatives.
The community’s response indicates a strong desire for ongoing support and resources, ensuring that Muslim healthcare professionals can transition from academic life to their careers with both financial acumen and adherence to their values. As this initiative closes, the ripple effects of its teachings will likely resonate throughout the community, fostering a new generation of financially savvy healthcare professionals.
