The president of FOSIS, the body which oversees university student Islamic societies in the UK and Ireland, has died in a drowning incident in Switzerland.
Bashir Osman, 25, was originally from the Netherlands but was based in Birmingham. He studied engineering at the University of Warwick before becoming FOSIS president in June 2014. He also worked as a business consultant.
Details of his death are still unclear but it’s thought that he was going down a river in the Landquart district when his boat capsized, after which he ended up in a whirlpool which sucked him down.
His friend, who was traveling in a separate boat, alerted the authorities but when they arrived attempts to resuscitate him failed.
Eulogies have been pouring in on social media and a tribute page has been set up on Facebook.
The ex-president of FOSIS, Omar Ali, said: “He was a man who made everyone smile and laugh. He was a brother who cared for those around him. He was a Muslim who worked tirelessly to help humanity. He was an inspiration to the young and old all around the UK and Ireland. He had a unique ability to make so many feel special and hold a place in their heart for him.
“He has returned to his Lord in the blessed month of Ramadan. Not only that, but those who die by drowning are considered to be shaheed. One of his last Facebook posts was a reminder of making the most of the last 15 days of Ramadan. What a reminder for us all.”
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And Malia Bouattia, a colleague and National Union of Students officer, said: Today we lost one of the most affectionate and loyal of friends…. From the early days of the Students for Justice in Palestine society, through to his ISOC and FOSIS presidency… his support was immeasurable. He’d always call me randomly to ask what he can do to help and spread the word despite his endless list of commitments to family, the community and FOSIS. He was loved and trusted by all. Allah Yarahm my dear brother. May Allah give all his family and loved ones sabr through this difficult time.”
