Instagram is giving back once again this Ramadan by running its global “Month of Good” initiative for a second year. The social networking service launched the campaign to inspire users to band together and spread kindness while it’s not possible to physically connect. Instagrammers are encouraged to share benevolent deeds, whether big or small, throughout the Holy Month and persuade others to do the same, using the hashtag #MonthofGood.
"While this year will be different for many people, Ramadan remains a time for generosity, charity, spiritual reflection and connecting with family and friends - even if we can’t physically be together," Instagram shared.
Taking part in the virtual celebration is easy thanks to the peeps at the free photo and video-sharing app providing some tips. According to them, acts of good can be as effortless as thanking healthcare professionals, posting an upbeat comment or hosting a virtual Iftar to bring family and friends together, wherever they may be in the world.
Instagram has turned to popular Egyptian star Ahmed Helmy to help spread the momentum. He will be sharing special messages during his role as the regional ambassador for #MonthofGood.
Throughout the Holy Month, Instagram will also shine a spotlight on content creators from around the world, who will share key moments from their Ramadan celebrations. Huda Kattan, the ultra-successful beauty entrepreneur and influencer, kicked things off.
“My family is the most important thing to me. We do everything together, but during Ramadan we really take the time to slow down and dedicate more time to appreciating one another,” the founder and CEO of Huda Beauty, said.
“One of the main things that me and my family are dedicating our time to this #MonthofGood is providing food for families who need it. This is something that our family focuses on every Ramadan, and it’s really eye-opening. We sometimes take some of the most basic things in life, like food, for granted.”
Instagram is also highlighting the mental and emotional benefits of spreading kindness on its app. "Kindness is contagious; it has the power to bring us together at times when we need it most. As many people spend this Ramadan away from their loved ones, it is crucial to look out for one another, and promote values of empathy and compassion in everything we say and do,” Hala Kazim, a renowned life coach and wellness advocate, was quoted as saying in Khaleej Times. “We all have the power to make the world a better place, one kind deed at a time."
Instagram brought back its ‘Ramadan Lantern’ AR effect too. Found by searching for 'Lantern' in the Stories Camera, it features iconography associated with Ramadan and includes greetings in English, Arabic, Bahasa, Turkish and Farsi.
According to a statement from Instagram, there were over 16 million uses of the word 'Ramadan' on its platform in 2019. Around 2 billion people celebrate the Holy Month around the globe and use the social networking site to “share their experiences and celebrations.”
