"Ramadan is a time family members get together to celebrate," Hamna Taj said, as the Holy month came to an end on May 13.
This Sunday, the Canberran Muslim community prepares for the Eid festivities as the 2021 Canberra Eid - Al Fitr Festival takes place at the Canberra Islamic Centre in Monash.
Three young Islamic women, 18-year-old Adeebeh Ghannam, 19-year-old Layla Alsweity and 17-year-old Miss Taj discussed their experiences participating in Ramadan.
"I have always participated ever since I was a little girl, even though I fasted only half days, eventually I was able to fast full days when I hit the age of 12 and became an adult," Miss Alsweity said.
"It's one of my favourite times of the year. It brings me peace to a somewhat crazy world, as an opportunity to get closer to God."
"Before I came to Australia I lived in Pakistan, and coming from a Muslim family growing up, everyone around me participated in Ramadan and looked forward to it every year," Miss Taj said.
Celebrating during 2020 was very different.
"Eid just didn't feel the same last year, it was so isolating as it's usually a social time," Miss Alsweity said.
Miss Alsweity said fasting during exams was one of the most challenging experiences of Ramadan.
"It was hard to focus because I was hungry ... juggling schoolwork, going to 'iftars' and praying when I was at work. At my work there isn't an ideal place to pray, so I was having to ask my manager to give me shifts until 2.30pm so I could rush home and pray," Miss Taj said.
Ramadan is special for all Muslims as it teaches them to stay blessed, be grateful and reflect upon themselves and celebrate in their own ways throughout Eid.
"We start Eid with kisses and cuddles from our loved ones, then we're off to the mosque for Eid prayer, where we get to see our friends and family. After, we gather together and celebrate, doing social activities like going to each other's houses, restaurants, cafes etc," said Miss Ghannam.
"We try to attend every year and it's just a wonderful time to celebrate together after a month of fasting and worshipping," Miss Taj said.
