At just five years old, Mulham bin Murushid has a dream bigger than most children his age – to lead prayers in a mosque, just like the imams he so deeply admires.

Since joining Falah Preschool earlier this year, Mulham has stood out not just for his quiet confidence, but for his unwavering love for the role of an imam. Whether it is a school event or a costume party, Mulham insists on wearing traditional imam attire. For him, it is not a costume – it is a calling.

During the month of Ramadan, while many children were still nestled in bed, Mulham would rise before dawn to attend Fajr prayers with his father. Every morning, he would make his way to the front row of the mosque, hoping to sit as close as possible to the imam. He studied the imam's every move with keen interest, and afterwards, he would wait patiently to greet him.

So, when Dr Salah bin Muhammad al-Budair, the Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi, arrived in the Maldives, Mulham was filled with excitement. He had been closely following the imam's visit through his father, asking questions and hoping for the chance to see him in person.

That wish came true the very next day.

Imam Dr al-Budair met with hundreds of pre-school children at the Islamic Centre in Malé, as part of a special programme arranged by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Among them was Mulham, small in stature, but with a heart full of ambition. What made the moment even more special was the honour given to Mulham: the chance to recite the Qur'an before the visiting imam, an opportunity not afforded to any Maldivian child in four decades.

It was a moment of immense joy and pride for Mulham, his family, teachers, and community.

A senior official from Falah Preschool explained that when the Ministry requested them to select a student, the teachers thought of Mulham. The official noted that despite being at the school for less than three weeks, Mulham had already impressed everyone with his beautiful recitation during school assemblies.

Mulham's father, who proudly shared the story, mentioned that he purchased three taqiyahs (skullcaps) for the big day. However, Mulham preferred to wear his usual one – the same one he wears when pretending to lead prayers at home. His father explained that for Mulham, the occasion was not about new clothes or appearances, but rather about fulfilling a dream he has carried in his heart from the beginning.

According to his father, Mulham also dreams of performing Umrah one day. This meeting stands as a sign from Allah, reinforcing the idea that if one wants something that pleases Allah and asks with sincerity, Allah will guide the way.

Unaware of just how deeply he had inspired one little boy, Imam Dr al-Budair's visit left a mark on Mulham's heart that may well last a lifetime. For a child who already walks with the quiet dignity of a future imam, this was a memory stitched into the fabric of his growing faith.

As Mulham continues on his path, one small step at a time, his story reminds us of all of the purity of childhood dreams, and the power of a moment to shape a life.