Imam Bilal Asif: A Life Dedicated to Service, Scholarship, and Community

Imam Bilal Asif is a dedicated Muslim chaplain based in Birmingham, known for his unwavering commitment to Islamic scholarship, community engagement, and pastoral care. With a strong blend of academic achievement and real-world experience, he has become a respected and trusted figure within both religious and wider community settings across the United Kingdom.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Youth and Community Work, which laid the groundwork for his passion in supporting and empowering individuals, particularly young people. This academic foundation equipped him with the practical skills needed to engage with diverse communities, understand social challenges, and provide meaningful support. Alongside his university education, Imam Bilal pursued extensive traditional Islamic studies, primarily under the mentorship of Shaykh Asrar Rashid, through whom he gained a strong grounding in core Islamic sciences.

Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Imam Bilal furthered his studies at Darul Qurra & Islamic Research Centre under the guidance of Shaykh Abu Adam Akhlaq Al Azhari, who remains both his mentor and teacher. During his time there, he received ijazat (formal authorisations) in multiple notable Islamic works, granting him the authority to teach various disciplines including Aqeedah (theology), Fiqh (jurisprudence), and Hadith (Prophetic traditions). He is currently continuing his studies in Quranic sciences, demonstrating his ongoing dedication to lifelong learning and scholarly development.

During his university years, Imam Bilal also recognised the growing need for mental health awareness and support within communities. As a result, he completed specialised training in Suicide Prevention, Mental Health First Aid, and Islamic Counselling. These qualifications have proven invaluable in his work, enabling him to offer compassionate, informed, and holistic care to individuals facing personal and emotional challenges. His ability to combine faith-based guidance with contemporary support frameworks makes his approach both relevant and impactful.

Following his graduation, Imam Bilal embarked on an international journey to deepen his understanding of Islamic knowledge and tradition. He travelled to countries including Turkey, Morocco, and Pakistan, where he studied key areas such as Hanafi Fiqh, Ash‘ari Aqeedah, and Tasawwuf (Islamic spirituality). These experiences not only enriched his scholarly perspective but also exposed him to diverse cultural and educational traditions within the Muslim world.

Upon returning to the UK, he pursued a postgraduate qualification in Chaplaincy, specialising in work with young people. He then began his professional career as a Muslim Chaplain within the prison service. Over the course of five years, Imam Bilal served with dedication and sincerity, providing spiritual care, counselling, and guidance to inmates. His role involved supporting individuals through some of the most difficult periods of their lives, helping them find purpose, reform, and hope.

After his time in the prison system, Imam Bilal transitioned into roles within charitable organisations, where he served as a Pastoral Support Officer and International Aid Worker. His work extended beyond the UK, as he actively participated in humanitarian initiatives across Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, Pakistan, and Ghana between 2021 and 2023. Through these efforts, he contributed to relief work, community development, and support for vulnerable populations affected by conflict and poverty.

Since November 2022, Imam Bilal has been serving as a Muslim Chaplain at Birmingham Newman University, where he supports students and staff through spiritual guidance, counselling, and community-building initiatives. In addition to this role, he holds the position of Head of Education and Khateeb at Banbury Madani Masjid. In this capacity, he delivers sermons, leads educational programmes, and plays a central role in nurturing religious understanding within the community. He also serves as an Islamic consultant to various charitable organisations, offering guidance on religious matters and community engagement strategies.

In July 2023, Imam Bilal launched a radio show titled UniMatters on UnityFM 93.5, representing Birmingham Newman University. Through this platform, he engages with students, academics, and professionals from diverse backgrounds, discussing their journeys into higher education and highlighting important social and educational issues. The show reflects his commitment to dialogue, inclusion, and community connection.

Key Accomplishments

• BA in Youth and Community Work (2013)
• Postgraduate Qualification in Chaplaincy with Young People (2018)
• Certified training in Suicide Prevention, Mental Health First Aid, and Islamic Counselling
• Ijazah (license to teach) in Aqeedah, Fiqh, Hadith, and other Islamic sciences
• Muslim Prison Chaplain at HMP Bullingdon (2019–2022)
• Former Head of Education at Worcester Jamia Mosque (2022–2024)
• Current Head of Education and Khateeb at Banbury Madani Masjid

Imam Bilal Asif’s journey is a powerful example of dedication to faith, service, and personal growth. Through his work in chaplaincy, education, and humanitarian aid, he continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact, inspiring others and strengthening the communities he serves.