About Me
Learn how my background in psychology and dawah work shaped my mission to help others grow spiritually and personally.
Assalam alaykum! I am passionate about exploring the intersection of human psychology and Islamic principles. My focus isn’t on clinical mental health, but rather on understanding the human mind and behaviour as foundational tools that can help us apply ourselves to become better Muslims.
Here is a little bit about my journey to get here.
Faith in Unexpected Places
My path didn’t begin entirely in a traditional Islamic environment. Although the son of an Imam, I actually attended a Christian boys’ school; a setting that contrastingly opposed my own beliefs. Yet, surprisingly, this environment is where my iman (faith) flourished. Being in a space so different from my own pushed me to understand and solidify my beliefs. I will always be grateful to the school for embracing me; they fully supported my religious practices, allowing me to leave campus for Jumu’ah prayers and supporting me in growing my beard.
The Pivot: From Engineering to Psychology
When I first entered university, I was studying Aerospace Avionics Engineering. It was a rigorous field, but I quickly realized that building electrical systems was not what I wanted to do with my life. I found myself naturally gravitating toward psychology. I deeply believe that a solid understanding of how we think and behave are crucial to living successfully. When we understand our own psychology, we are better equipped to strive for excellence (ihsan) and apply ourselves fully to our faith.
The Pursuit of Knowledge
Initially, my goal was to become a practicing psychologist. I dedicated myself to this path, which culminated in completing my Psychology degree with First Class Honours. However, during my studies, I caught the “PhD bug.” I realized that instead of clinical practice, I could make a much more unique and far-reaching contribution to the ummah through research and the discovery of new knowledge. My academic commitment was recognized when I secured a PhD scholarship, giving me the vital support needed to fully immerse myself in my research. This journey ultimately led me to complete my PhD in Psychology and Muslim Studies, perfectly bridging my academic interests with my faith.
Serving the Community
Throughout my life and academic career, I have always believed in the importance of actively serving the community. Over the years, I have had the privilege of holding various positions that have shaped my perspective, including:
- Senior Lecturer
- Senior Not-for-Profit Researcher
- President of the Muslim Students’ Association (MSA)
- Madrassa Teacher
- Muslim Youth Worker
Through my work, my goal is to share knowledge that empowers us to understand ourselves better and, ultimately, brings us closer to our Allah.
An ayah that gives me so much hope…
قُلْ يَـٰعِبَادِىَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَسْرَفُوا۟ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِهِمْ لَا تَقْنَطُوا۟ مِن رَّحْمَةِ ٱللَّهِ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَغْفِرُ ٱلذُّنُوبَ جَمِيعًا ۚ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلْغَفُورُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ
Say, ˹O Prophet, that Allah says,˺ “O My servants who have exceeded the limits against their souls! Do not despair in Allah’s mercy, for Allah certainly forgives all sins. He is indeed the All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
(Quran 39:53)
