For many young Muslim women, the hijab is more than just a headscarf – it is a deeply personal symbol of faith, identity and resilience. Safiya Mndebele, an 18-year-old university student, shares her insights on the significance of wearing the hijab, navigating both support and challenges along her journey.
To Mndebele, the hijab is not just about modesty. It is a spiritual practice that strengthens her connection with Allah and serves as a daily reminder of her values.
“It allows me to connect with my Muslim sisters because if I see another Muslim, whether they are hijabi or not, there’s like this instant connection and like an understanding between us,” she explains.
This sense of belonging extends beyond clothing. It fosters unity among Muslim women regardless of background.
Having a supportive family has made her hijab journey empowering rather than restrictive. Her parents encouraged her decision, helping her develop confidence in her identity.
This kind of family reinforcement is crucial. When young Muslim women feel uplifted in their choices, they are more likely to embrace hijab as an act of devotion rather than obligation.
Surprisingly, it is not always non-Muslim environments that pose the biggest challenge. Mndebele highlights an issue many hijabis face: judgment from within their own community.
“I feel like maybe the more challenging part is within the Muslim community where I feel like people will look at a hijabi and be like, ‘oh, this person’s perfect’.”
This unrealistic expectation can be overwhelming, making hijabis feel as if they must uphold an unattainable level of piety at all times.
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University settings, where she is often one of the few hijabis, add another layer of complexity. The transition from a Muslim school to a diverse campus brought moments of self-doubt, but ultimately, her hijab became a source of strength. It serves as a reminder of her faith and values, allowing her to navigate different spaces without losing sight of her beliefs.
Social media has also played an important role in shaping narratives around hijab. It provides a platform for education, community-building, and dispelling common misconceptions. By showcasing diverse experiences, it allows young Muslim women to feel seen, understood, and empowered in their hijab journey.
At its core, the hijab is not just about covering. It is about uncovering a deeper relationship with Allah. Mndebele’s reflections highlight that while the journey comes with its challenges, it also brings immense spiritual and emotional growth.
Hijab is not about perfection. It is about intention, sincerity, and devotion. And that, she believes, is what truly matters.
For more about this story, watch her interview with Salaamedia below:
Image source: PNW Productions, Pexels
