[3] In the wake of the tragic loss of two of her daughters,[4] Bangladeshi widow Sufia Khatun donated part of her land for the construction of a mosque.

[5] Community members initially used a temporary structure on the site for prayer, but when Khatun died, Tabassum was left as the sole fundraiser, designer, client, and builder of the project.

The earliest mosques incorporated elements from local building traditions, such as small domes that span the roof and brick walls.

[9] The architect combined this unique traditional Sultanate mosque architecture[10] with a modern approach to create a design that challenges the status quo.

[14] Without using the usual mosque symbolism,[15] the architect created a space of spirituality with simplicity and the use of natural light prompting deep reflection and contemplation in prayer.

[18] The architecture pays tribute to lost mosque-building traditions[17] and fits into the landscape of a country with a developing economy, which the architect believed was her social responsibility.

[22] This $1 million award, presented by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, recognizes architectural excellence in Muslim communities around the world.