Bonnie Ibrahim
Introduction
Ko Rahiri me toku Tupuna
Rahiri is my ancestor
Ko Mamari toku Waka
Mamari is my canoe
Ko Whakatere toku Maunga
Whakatere is my Mountain
Ko Waima toku Awa
Waima is my river
Ko Tuhirangi toku Marae
Tuhirangi is my Marae
Ko Te Mahurehure toku Hapu
Mahurehure is my meeting house
Ko Hokianga toku Rohe
Hokianga is my district
Ko Ngapuhi toku Iwi
Ngapuhi is my tribe
Ko Bonnie Ibrahim Taku Ingoa
My name is Bonnie Ibrahim
Life before Islam.
When I was 29 I was working in England. My friend and I decided to go backpacking. We packed up and toured Europe and the Middle East.
We backpacked through Lebanon, Syria, Jordon, Israel, Turkey and Egypt- where I met my husband.
My first encounter with a Muslim
The Athan in Turkey was my first introduction to Islam.
My husband was my first encounter with a Muslim. There was an instant connection between us and we did our Nikka Islamic Marriage 6 weeks after meeting each other.
My husband didn't mind that I wasn't Muslim he said as long as you believe in God that's all that matters.
I went back to England to sort out some business affairs then returned back to Egypt.
My Conversion.
One month after our Nikka, I fell pregnant with twins.
We decided to move to New Zealand as it had better health care.
A year later I did my Shahada.
What do I love about Islam?
I love everything, the serenity the lifestyle, the knowledge. There are too many things, to mention, and it's beautiful, it's a journey.
I love that family life in Islam doesn't revolve around alcohol or drugs. It's a good life for everyone.
How has Islam improved me as a person?
Initially, I believed in God, so transitioning to Islam was not difficult. The improvements were that I gave up drinking smoking and pork.
Now I have guidance a clear path and I'm content.
My family likes my changes.
My parents have always been loving and supportive of me.
As a Maori Muslim what challenges you have faced?
Dealing with the negative stigma of Muslims since 911 has been challenging, and having to bear the medias constant attack is tiresome.
The challenges have been external from non- Muslims.