Birmingham Woman's Journey to Islam: Parents' Positive Reaction to Faith Change
Liyana Jones, a 22-year-old resident of Hall Green in Birmingham, has openly shared her transformative first year as a Muslim, highlighting the pivotal moment she revealed her faith conversion to her parents. Her story offers a heartfelt look into personal religious exploration and family acceptance.
From University Graduation to Spiritual Discovery
Liyana's journey began after she graduated from the University of Birmingham two years ago, when she first started exploring the possibility of reverting to Islam. In 2024, she delved deeper into the faith, particularly during Ramadan, with significant support from the local Muslim community. This period of reflection and learning culminated in her taking the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, in May 2025.
"By the time I told them, I had done good research into Islam and I was 100 per cent sure that it was the right decision and that I had sincere belief," Liyana explained, emphasizing her thorough preparation before sharing her decision with her family.
Breaking the News to Family
Living independently in Birmingham, away from her parents in Hertfordshire, allowed Liyana to practice her faith privately, including reading and praying, without needing to conceal her actions. She first informed her mother two weeks after her Shahada, followed by telling her father a month later, both conversations taking place over the phone.
"I told them over the phone and their reaction was really, really, really positive, but I kind of gave hints here and there," she recalled. Liyana had subtly shared aspects of her new faith, such as celebrating Eid and fasting during Ramadan with friends, which helped pave the way for her announcement.
Parental Support and Reflections
Liyana recounted anecdotes that illustrated her parents' gradual understanding. For instance, her mother once encouraged her to drink water while fasting, unaware of Liyana's commitment to Islam at the time. In hindsight, her mother expressed a wish that Liyana had shared her decision earlier, recognizing how Islam had positively influenced her daughter.
"I think if your parents can see how Islam's made you a better person, then over time they can only come to appreciate and accept it," Liyana noted, highlighting the importance of visible personal growth in fostering acceptance.
Challenges and Broader Context
Reflecting on the difficulties others might face when changing religions, Liyana pointed out that having non-religious parents made her situation easier. "I feel like it's harder where your parents are actually more religious because for me, my parents, they don't really go to church," she said. Growing up in a Catholic school and reading the Bible herself, she contrasted her experience with scenarios where deeply religious parents might struggle to accept Islam.
Building Community in Birmingham
Now, Liyana actively fosters an inclusive environment for other women who have reverted to Islam in Birmingham. Through her TikTok page, @liyanaa.j, she shares Ramadan events that bring together Muslims, having already hosted two gatherings attended by many new converts. Her efforts aim to create a supportive network for those navigating similar faith journeys.
This story underscores the power of community, personal conviction, and family support in the journey of faith conversion, offering inspiration and insight into the Muslim experience in Birmingham.
