Farhanaz Sultana, an Administrative Assistant, explains her experience of Ramadan and Eid:

What does your family do to celebrate Eid?

Our Eid day has always started in the most traditional of ways with Salah al –Eid, which are our morning Eid prayers where we will nominate a particular prayer for this day. It's a celebration like any other joyous day in the calendar, filled with plenty of food and lots of time spent with the whole family.

What does Eid mean to you?

To me, Ramadan is a time to increase one's sabr (patience), closeness to God and generosity towards others, especially those who are less fortunate. In a world filled with greed and self-dependence, it is of great benefit to us to take some time out of our busy schedules to reflect on our surroundings and appreciate all that is around us. Something that is so easily forgotten whilst we are caught in the midst of our day to day activities. For me this is a great time to reflect and be grateful for all that I have been blessed with and remember those who are not in as fortunate a position as me.

Ramadan is known as 'the holy month' because it is the month in which the Quran was revealed – it is also during this month that the prophet Muhammed (pbuh) made his revolutionary migration from Mecca to Medina. As one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting in the month of Ramadan is an important practice of the faith. The challenge is to keep up the good traits we nurtured during the holy month and keep remembering our fellow human beings and our place in the world.

What do you think is the best way for non-Muslim colleagues to wish you a happy Eid?

I think the best way will be the most traditional way to greet someone by saying 'Eid Mubarak'. It's so lovely coming from a non-Muslim as I personally think it's so thoughtful because they've taken the time to get to know about Ramadan and Eid.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during Ramadan?

Honestly, it's been a breeze! The absence of tea has been heartbreaking, but it's really been OK!

Do you think Osborne Clarke is a supportive environment during Ramadan?

I think they have been so supportive, whether it's leaving early, changing when I take a lunch break or going out for a walk at any time. The support hasn't just been from Partners who have shown a genuine interest and ask how I am feeling and general questions about Ramadan, but also from rest of my colleagues, PAs to paralegals to kitchen and reception staff – the whole firm has been great. I am filled with a huge sense of warmth when non-Muslims take an interest in my faith and how I practise it and anyone who is curious has not been afraid to ask, which is amazing.

How do you think Osborne Clarke can better support you/those who fast during Ramadan?

I have always felt very comfortable in asking management for any special requirements if needs be. They have always made me feel comfortable to approach them if I needed to.