From headteachers to football academies, the response to The Rabbi & The Imam has been extraordinary.
"I've lost count of the number of pupils and staff who said it was the best talk they've ever been to at our school. The message that being 'pro' one community does not mean being 'anti' another really hit home. Since they left, a number of our pupils have come forward to talk about what they might do to build on the messages they heard. Above all, they have left us here with a feeling of hope."
Jo Anderson, Principal
Bury Grammar School
"The depth of their friendship was apparent, and their words were peppered with good humour and gentle chiding, reflections of a long standing, trusting relationship. It is no exaggeration to say world leaders could learn from listening to such inspirational speakers."
Ms R Stokwisz, Head of Year 7 Religion & Philosophy
St Ambrose Barlow RC High School
"Many of the boys stayed after the assembly to speak with Rabbi Lewis and Imam Kurdy — pupils were so engaged they did not even notice the school bell ringing for lunch! We hope they will be able to return to MGS soon."
Dr Samuel Crawshaw, Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Manchester Grammar School
"In one very poignant moment, a Syrian student stated that after the assembly, he finally felt able to tell people about his Israeli friend. I cannot recommend The Rabbi and The Imam highly enough."
Jennifer Stead, Head of Pastoral Support
Salford City College Group
"It was fantastic for the boys to gain a greater understanding from both sides. To have a Rabbi and Imam give their views and discuss how they bring their communities together despite their differences was an inspiring message our players can take throughout their careers."
Ted Smith, Education Officer
Liverpool FC Academy
"Staff are still talking about it a week later, independently commenting that this was one of, if not the best presentation at Sarasin & Partners — leaving memorable, poignant and reflective thoughts."
John Handford, Head of Charities Marketing
Sarasin & Partners
"Their warm friendship was evident not as a show just for the occasion, but one born out of years of sharing, visiting and, importantly, listening to each other. I, and I am sure many staff and pupils, were humbled and moved by their important message."
Lee Bergin, Headmaster
North Cestrian School — Nov 2023
"The assembly led by Imam Kurdy and Rabbi Dovid was an engaging, moving, and uplifting example of the ways in which friendship and mutual respect can enhance our lives. Unity was truly at the heart of this very worthwhile assembly."
Sarah Haslam, Headmistress
Withington Girls School — Feb 2024
"Their story of friendship, and their embrace at the end of the assemblies, gave a clear message to all pupils. What stands out is the authenticity of their relationship, which leads to them giving a slightly different talk each time as they react to one another genuinely."
Mrs H F Jeys, Headmistress
Manchester High School for Girls — July 2024
"Their responses to questions were genuine, thoughtful and gave great learning opportunities. As ever, their friendship and mutual respect is inspiring — true role models for our students of all faiths and none. Thank you to Rabbi Dovid, Imam Kurdy and Mark for visiting again."
Mrs D Bruce, Deputy Head (Pastoral)
Manchester High School for Girls — Dec 2024
"A positive and hopeful message in a world with much negativity and pessimism. Students were clearly engrossed throughout and doubtless moved to reflect on the issues raised. We look forward to continuing the conversation."
Stuart Beeley, Headmaster
Wellington School — Jan 2025
"The assembly sparked deep engagement and debate with our Year 12 students and the Q&A session went on deep into the lunch break. I would highly recommend this interfaith assembly to all secondary schools in the area."
Graeme Wright, Headmaster
Altrincham Grammar School for Boys — Jan 2025
"There was a very special moment where a Muslim student who had initially been quite confrontational held out his hand to shake the Rabbi's. One member of staff told me it was the best session they had attended in school."
Helen Dolphin, Assistant Head
Stretford Grammar School — Feb 2025
"Your message of interfaith understanding, unity, and respect was both inspiring and deeply impactful. You captured the essence of School Diversity Week perfectly. We look forward to welcoming you back again."
Akeim Mundell, Assistant Principal
William Hulme Grammar School — June 2025
"Their visit has sparked lasting conversations at Saddleworth School. Two quotes struck a particular chord: 'Hate the sin, not the sinner' and 'A person not like you is still a person, just like you.'"
Darren Casey, Assistant Headteacher
Saddleworth School — July 2025
"The experience was simply a pleasure. No topics or questions were out of bounds. As I listened, I genuinely felt that this talk should go on tour and be heard by as many as possible."
Patrick Davern, Head of Religion
Xaverian College — Oct 2025
"Friends for over a decade, they do not suggest we have to agree at all times, but that we talk and listen respectfully. Their very frank conversation was hugely engaging and provoked considerable discussion over lunch."
James Wilson, Shaa Lecture Coordinator
Stockport Grammar School — Nov 2025
"We were honoured to have Rabbi Dovid Lewis and Imam Nasser Kurdy speak at our conference. Their conversation was deeply moving yet filled with warmth and humour. Their message of hope, courage, and unity in difficult times is one that everyone should hear. You will leave inspired and uplifted."
Jen O'Donovan, Events Director
Faith Charities Forum — Civil Society Media
"The Rabbi and Imam's insightfulness, honesty and humour transfixed the room. Staff are still talking about it a week later — one of, if not the best presentation at Sarasin & Partners, leaving memorable, poignant and reflective thoughts."
John Handford, Head of Charities Marketing
Sarasin & Partners
"Members of the JPA and AMP were honoured to hear such a fascinating, thought-provoking and awe-inspiring account from two incredible men of different faiths. The wisdom and experience shared was a valuable gift to all those fortunate enough to hear them speak."
Chief Supt Richard Padwell, Jewish Police Association
Association of Muslim Police & Jewish Police Association
