Life is a series of choices, struggles, and divine interventions. Today, I want to share my story of how Allah paved my path in ways I could never have imagined, shaping my journey from a 17-year-old student to a passionate educator and a Da’wah worker.
The Craze for Computing
At 17, I had just completed my Bachelor’s exams in Mathematics, Statistics, and Economics. My dream was to study Computer Science-something I had been passionate about since Grade 10. However, cultural norms and parental concerns about co-education during my intermediate years diverted my path. Despite this setback, I remained determined to pursue my passion for technology, eagerly waiting for my BSc results and preparing for MSc in Computing. During this period, my mother suggested I attend Tafseer classes as a listener. My sisters and I were already familiar with the institute through summer camps and lectures, so I agreed, albeit with a lack of commitment. Little did I know, this decision would alter the course of my life.
A Du’a That Changed My Heart
While I attended the classes, I refrained from taking assessments, convinced that my future lay in computing. One day, the branch in-charge returned from Hajj and inquired why I hadn’t participated for the assessment. I explained my plans for further studies. Her response left me speechless: “I made du’a for you during Hajj that Allah makes you my Sadaqah Jariyah.” Her words struck my heart. It felt as if Allah was calling me toward His
Deen. That moment marked a turning point. I decided to dedicate myself to completing the Taleem-ul-Quran course before pursuing anything else. SubhanAllah, in just one year of Quran, Hadith, Seerah, and Fiqh studies, I gained more life skills, values, and knowledge than I had in 14 years of formal education. I discovered my purpose and set out on a new path-one that aligned with my goal of serving Allah and spreading His message.
Balancing Education and Dawah
After completing the certificate course, I continued with advanced studies in Sahih Bukhari, grammar, Tajweed, Seerah, and Da’wah. Yet, a lingering regret remained: my friends were completing their Master’s degrees, and I felt left behind. To address this, I enrolled in a Master’s program in Islamic Studies to complement my Da’wah efforts. By age 21, I had completed my
Master’s, married, and begun sharing my knowledge through teaching. My first role was as a school coordinator, where I introduced a subject called Moral
Education, based on the Sunnahs of the
Prophet (→).
**A Leap of Faith in a New Country**
When my husband secured a job in the UAE, I was initially worried. I feared losing my connection to Da’wah and compromising my children’s Islamic upbringing while balancing financial responsibilities. I turned to Allah, pouring my heart out in Tahajjud, asking Him to make the path easy. After moving to the UAE, I applied for teaching positions as a Math teacher, assuming Islamic Studies wouldn’t be in demand. But Allah’s plan was different. During an appointment meeting, the principal unexpectedly asked me to teach Islamic Studies, Arabic, and Social Studies-a role that perfectly aligned with my passion and qualifications. Without hesitation, I accepted, amazed at how Allah orchestrated everything so seamlessly.
**The Mission Continues**
From teaching students to now serving as the Head of the Department in a reputed school, my journey has been a testament to Allah’s divine planning. My goal has always been clear: to instill the love of Quran and Sunnah in young hearts, nurture their Islamic identity, and prepare them to face the challenges of the modern world as confident, practicing Muslims. Ironically, much of my work now involves technology-the very field I had dreamed of pursuing in my youth. This is yet another reminder of how Allah fulfills our dreams, but in ways that are best for us.
Lessons Learned
Allah’s Plan is Supreme:While we make plans, it is Allah’s plan that prevails, always for the best.
Trust the Process
Sometimes, what feels like a setback is actually a step forward
Serve with Purpose
Aligning your work with a higher purpose brings immense fulfillment and barakah.
Final Reflection
Today, as I train teachers and impact students’ lives, I remain grateful for the divine guidance that led me here. Every moment of my journey reminds me of the Quranic verse: *”And they plan, and Allah plans. And Allah is the best of planners.” (Quran 8:30) May Allah guide us all to find our purpose, fulfill our potential, and serve Him in the best way possible. Ameen. “*
By Asma Ahsan
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