So grateful to everyone who joined us for the first ever book launch as Ketebe Publishing in London, gathering around the timely work Why History Matters? by Ottoman historian Dr Yakoob Ahmed at SOAS University of London in a partnership with Everyday Muslim Heritage Archive.

We believe that as a community of scholars, writers, and cultural producers emerges across the world, the task is not only to join conversations, but to help shape frameworks rooted in our own civilisational memory and intellectual traditions.

Dr Yakoob’s work embodies this spirit. It reminds us that history is not distant, but a living compass for our times, helping us understand our present and approach the future with greater awareness.

Special thanks to our speakers — Ahmed Paul Keeler, inspiring generations Yahya Birt with his unique voice as a community historian; and Sadiya Ahmed for her vital work documenting, dignifying, and carrying our shared histories forward — and heartfelt thanks to Dr Yakoob Ahmed for writing this book from a faith-oriented perspective and offering such an important conversation.

Thank you for being part of this evening and of many more gatherings to come.