Ayoob Solomon emerged as the winner of VOC’s 30 second Five Pillar Ramadan competition on Tuesday, having held off fierce competition from fellow finalist, Zaakiyah Emjedi. The competition took place on VOC’s early morning “In the Fast Lane” show throughout the duration of the holy month, with competitors posed questions relating to the deen.

A clearly ecstatic Solomon walked away with a stay at the ATKV Goudini Spa, in the luxurious Slanghoek Villa. Speaking after his victory, Solomon admitted to being stumped by some of the questions posed during the competition, particularly in relation to inheritance within Islam. He also recognised the level of competition amongst his opponents.

“My first (opponent) was a bit competitive because we had a sudden death, but I made it through that round. The other ones were also okay,” he said.

He attributed his success to his father, through whom he learnt much of the deen. Solomon is a student at Stellenbosch University in civil engineering. Given the challenge of his studies, he plans to redeem his prize within the coming months.

“My parents are joining me on the holiday. This is my second time going to Goudini. I haven’t been there in 12 years so I am excited.”

As for next year, he suggested he would be open to competing again. However, he did have recommendations, particularly with regards to the posing of questions.

“I think some of the questions where Kamal gave different options (multiple choice), those took up part of the time of the 30 seconds. The questions should be phrased for one-word answers,” he suggested. VOC (Mubeen Banderker)