Biography
Imam Bilal Asif is a dedicated Muslim chaplain based in Birmingham. He holds a BA in Youth and Community Work and has pursued extensive studies in traditional Islamic Studies primarily under the mentorship of Shaykh Asrar Rashid. Continuing his studies at Darul Qurra & Islamic Research Centre, he remains under the tutelage of Shaykh Abu Adam Akhlaq Al Azhari, who is both his mentor and teacher. During his time at Darul Qurra, he has received Ijazat in multiple notable works. He is also currently undertaking studies in the Quranic sciences. Imam Bilal is committed to furthering his studies to ensure that he can serve his community in the best way possible. His dedication to both community service and Islamic scholarship makes him a respected figure in his field.
During his university years, Imam Bilal also expanded his knowledge by completing courses in Suicide Prevention, Mental Health First Aid, and Islamic Counselling, all of which have proven vital tools in his service to his community and around the UK.
Post-graduation, he embarked on a journey of deepening his religious understanding in Turkey, Morocco, and Pakistan, focusing on Hanafi Fiqh, Ashari Aqeedah, and Tassawuf. Upon his return to the UK, he attained a PostGrad in Chaplaincy and commenced his career as a Muslim Chaplain (Imam) within the Prison Service. With five years of dedicated service in the prison system, Imam Bilal transitioned to roles in charity organisations as a Pastoral Support Officer and International Aid Worker.
Since November 2022, Imam Bilal Asif has served as a Muslim Chaplain at Birmingham Newman University and currently holds the position of Head of Education and Khateeb at Banbury Madani Masjid. He also serves as an Islamic consultant to various charitable organizations.
In the humanitarian realm, from 2021 to 2023, Imam Bilal travelled to Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, Pakistan, and Ghana, actively participating in various humanitarian initiatives.
As of July 2023, Imam Bilal has been hosting Birmingham Newman University’s very own radio show on UnityFM 93.5 entitled UniMatters. On this show, he speaks with members of staff and students from all walks of life and departments about their journey into Higher Education.
Key Accomplishments:
• BA in Youth and Community Work, 2013
•Post Grad in Chaplaincy with Young People 2018
• Extensive training in Suicide Prevention
•(Ijaza) License to teach – Aqeedah, Fiqh, Hadith, and many more sciences
• Prison Chaplaincy at HMP Bullingdon, 2019 to 2022
•Former Head of Education at Worcester Jamia Mosque, 2022 to 2024
• He currently holds the position of Head of Education at Banbury Madani Masjid