Vanessa Haynes

In this enlightening conversation, Vanessa Haynes, a South African-born woman studying law and teaching math, shares her transformative journey to Islam spurred by the Gaza conflict. Vanessa reflects on her life shift from vibrant club nights to spiritual Fridays at the mosque, highlighting the profound faith of Palestinian Muslims that inspired her conversion. She discusses the loss of old friendships and the warmth of her new community, as she embraces her identity, including adopting the name Amina. Her story encapsulates the personal and communal aspects of faith amidst turbulent times.