#ReciteWithShetty : Reclaiming Digital Spaces With The Light Of The Qur’an
By Maryam Shetty
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim.
Distinguished guests, respected scholars, our esteemed traditional rulers, elder statesmen, and most importantly, the vibrant youth of Nigeria — Assalamu Alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.
As I stand before you today, my heart goes back to my formative years — days when the Holy Qur’an was not just a book to be recited, but a guide that shaped my thoughts, my discipline, and my purpose in life. Its verses gave me strength in times of uncertainty, direction when the path seemed unclear, and conviction that true success is rooted in faith and moral clarity.
It was from this deep well of inspiration that the idea of #ReciteWithShetty was born — a vision to give young Nigerians the same grounding, hope, and strength that the Qur’an has always given me.
We live in an age where digital platforms often amplify noise, discord, and distractions. But rather than abandon these spaces, I asked myself: Why not reclaim them? Why not transform TikTok and Instagram from playgrounds of frivolity into platforms of faith, beauty, and reflection?
#ReciteWithShetty became that answer. It was never just about competition — it was about rekindling love for the Qur’an, giving our youth a noble purpose in their online engagements, and reminding them that their voices can be instruments of light in a digital world often clouded with shadows.
What began as a modest initiative has grown into a movement that has captured the imagination of our youth across Northern Nigeria — and beyond. The melodious recitations, heartfelt reflections, and contagious zeal displayed by participants quickly spread like wildfire.
Soon, #ReciteWithShetty was no longer just a youth initiative. It caught the attention of:
• Respected religious leaders, who saw in it a revival of Qur’anic consciousness.
• Former Heads of State and elder statesmen, who recognized it as a beacon of moral reawakening in our times.
• Traditional rulers, who graciously offered their blessings and support, affirming that our cultural heritage and spiritual legacy are intertwined.
This wave of recognition is not merely a testament to me — it is a testament to the power of divine words and the boundless potential of our youth when given the right direction.
The Grand Finale & Vision for the Future
Today’s Grand Finale is more than an award ceremony. It is a celebration of faith, resilience, and unity. It is proof that when guided by the Qur’an, our young people can transform not only their lives but also the very platforms that shape global culture.
As we honour excellence tonight, let us remember that this is only the beginning. Together, we must continue to envision a future where social media is not a threat to our values but a sanctuary for them — a place where faith thrives, morality shines, and unity is strengthened.
#ReciteWithShetty is not a one-off programme, due to the overwhelming subscription and interest shown in this maiden challenge, I have consulted widely on my desire to expand the initiative into a national project that would cover a wider range of religio-humanitarian interests and concerns. My team and I have already embarked on as trategizing for the lifetime project that is expected to uplift humanity above the minimum benchmark for an ideal Muslim and a good life.
To every young participant, I say: Your recitations are not just sounds — they are seeds of transformation. You are the custodians of a digital generation that can be both modern and devout, innovative and faithful.
To our leaders, elders, and partners, I say: Your support is the wind beneath this vision, and with your continued blessings, #ReciteWithShetty will remain a light for generations to come.
May the Almighty accept our efforts, bless our nation, and make us all instruments of His guidance.
Assalam Alaikum warahmatullah wabarkatuh