Converting to Islam was the end of one journey and the beginning of another. I have come to accept that this one is the journey of a lifetime. It has also come with a lot of confusion, questions and isolation.

Sometimes there is a grief of the life I once lived, the connections I once had and the ease of fitting in that I have since lost. I find myself disoriented and overwhelmed by the constant change in social norms when switching between Muslim spaces and my non-Muslim family and friends. Wearing a veil can feel like bearing the weight of a thousand opinions on my head. The journey of converting can feel like jumping into the ocean when you can just about tread water. There is so much to learn it can feel like walking through a maze finding where to start. Lots of foreign Arabic words and names are used with no context provided. There are a lot of well-meaning Muslims offering advice and guidance without understanding or having compassion for the convert context. 

Finding New Beginnings three years ago has been a means of immense relief. It’s like finding a map in the wilderness. The sanctuary they provide is like being able to exhale after holding your breath. Having a dedicated space founded by converts for converts means we are able to have our needs met without having to explain what they are or feel we are a burden by asking. They truly welcome us to ‘come as you are to Islam as it is’.  There is so much intentionality behind every course, event and retreat. I have witnessed first-hand their willingness and dedication to serve. From the design of the website to the format of the courses, the accessibility of the teachers and the organisational detail at events, there is a sense of ease as everything is clear to navigate and the support is constant. Firm Foundations covers all the obligatory knowledge and this is a lifeline to any convert feeling unsure of where to start. There are online groups to keep us all connected and sometimes the relief comes from being in a space where we can be seen, heard, validated and understood. 

New Beginnings purposely fosters connection with likeminded people who have a shared understanding of a unique experience. Forming friendships with people on a similar journey has made it so much more enjoyable. What makes the space so special is the lack of judgement and the unwavering extension of mercy. 

I feel like I found a family at a time when I needed one most. I couldn’t be more grateful for the way Allah has facilitated such a safe space to learn and be Muslim without the validity of my Islam being questioned. New Beginnings has seen me through some of the most difficult moments of my journey. I have made lifelong friends and built relationships with teachers who have been a stronghold during challenging times. I recommend them to everyone looking into Islam and every convert I meet. I wish everyone could experience and be introduced to Islam in such a beautiful space.

– Ila