Groundbreaking Milestone: Newmarket Islamic Centre Begins Construction on New Purpose-Built Facility

The Muslim community in Newmarket marked a historic milestone on Saturday, December 13, 2025, as the Newmarket Islamic Centre (NIC) officially broke ground on its new permanent home.

Community members, interfaith leaders, and dignitaries gathered at 700 Mulock Drive to celebrate the commencement of a project over a decade in the making.

The ceremony represents a shift from the current facility—a former residential house—to a 17,000-square-foot, three-story building designed to serve the more than 900 Muslim families now residing in Newmarket and Aurora.

A Vision for Inclusion

The atmosphere at the site was one of profound gratitude. Mudasser Shafique, Chair of the Newmarket Islamic Centre, emphasized that the project is about more than just bricks and mortar.

“We are not only starting the construction of the building. We are building a future,” Shafique said during the ceremony.

He added that the facility is intended to be a place where people of all backgrounds can come together, stating, “We are proud Canadians and proud residents of Newmarket. This centre reflects that diversity and harmony that make our town and country special.”

In a statement shared via social media, the NIC Board echoed this sentiment: “This milestone represents more than construction—it reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, service, and bringing Newmarket communities closer together.”

Strong Civic Support

The event saw a high-profile turnout of local, provincial, and federal representatives. Newmarket Mayor John Taylor, who recalled the challenges of forming the centre back in 2005, offered words of solidarity to the congregation.

“I want you to know as a mayor, and as a town, that we stand with you, and we stand beside you,” Mayor Taylor said. “We stand with welcoming, open arms with love and with respect. We can't wait to see you thrive and grow even more in this new site.”

Newmarket–Aurora MP Sandra Cobena highlighted the community's resilience, noting that the vision faced real challenges, including the disruptions of the pandemic.

“Today that perseverance is being honoured,” she remarked. MPP Dawn Gallagher Murphy also praised the leadership of the NIC, stating, “Thank you for your leadership, your resilience, your strength to persevere, because look at what it's accomplishing.”

Building for Future Generations

According to volunteer and spokesperson Yasir Ayub, the new $6-million facility will be built in phases.

The first phase, estimated at $2.5 million, aims to complete the "skeleton" of the building by July 2026.

Once finished, the centre will feature two floors of prayer space and a multipurpose community hub on the third floor.

Shafique noted that the long-term impact of the centre is the ultimate goal: “We are making a foundation for future generations — for our children, our grandchildren, and all those who will one day enter the centre and find comfort and community here.”

Looking Ahead

The NIC Board extended their "sincere thanks to all supporters, volunteers, and partners for their tremendous encouragement." As construction begins, the organization invites the public to stay updated or contribute to the building fund via their official website.

For more information, visit www.nmic.ca.

Sources:

• NewmarketToday, "‘We are building a future’: Newmarket Islamic Centre breaks ground on new building," December 14, 2025.
• Newmarket Islamic Centre (NIC) Official Facebook/Social Media Statement, December 13, 2025.