About Our Imam

Introducing Imam Riaz Ahmed Qadri – A Lifelong Scholar and Spiritual Leader

Born in Pakistan, Imam Riaz Ahmed Qadri embarked on his journey of Islamic knowledge at a young age, beginning his memorization of the Holy Qur’an at just 12 years old. His academic pursuit of sacred and secular knowledge led him to excel in both science and humanities during his early education in Lahore—the renowned "City of Colleges."

Driven by a deep passion for Islamic scholarship, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Dars-e-Nizami (Islamic & Shariah Sciences) from a prestigious public university in Islamabad, followed by a Master’s in Islamic Studies, specializing in Uloom ul Quran & Tafseer from Allama Iqbal University, Pakistan. Through dedication and divine grace, he graduated as a distinguished scholar of Islamic Sciences.

Seeking to broaden his expertise, Imam Qadri furthered his studies at the University of Oxford, UK, in Islamic Theology and completed a specialized course in Islamic Chaplaincy at Markfield Institute of Higher Education (MIHE), Leicester. Currently, he is in the final stages of his PhD in Islamic Studies, insha’Allah, marking yet another milestone in his lifelong commitment to knowledge.

With decades of experience, Imam Qadri has served Muslim communities across the globe—from Pakistan to the UK, Europe, and the USA—leading prayers, delivering impactful Friday sermons, and fostering interfaith harmony through meaningful dialogues.

His professional journey reflects a blend of academia and spiritual leadership. He served for seven years at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) in Islamabad, where he also delivered enlightening sermons on faith and spirituality. In the UK, he made history as the first Muslim Chaplain & Faith Advisor at Staffordshire University while also serving at City Central Mosque, Stoke-on-Trent. His leadership extended to roles such as:

• Mosque Liaison Director at Hijaz College Islamic University, UK

• Minister of Religion at Oxford Central Mosque, Idara Faizan ul Quran, and Al-Madina Masjid, Walsall

Since July 2023, Imam Riaz Ahmed Qadri has been serving as the Head Imam of Woodland Mosque & Islamic Center, California, USA, where he continues to inspire, educate, and guide the community with wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Imam Riaz Ahmed Qadri