I started wearing the hijab on January 4th, 2019. Yes, I remember the date vividly. (Maybe because I made a YouTube video about it two years ago…)

Winter break of my senior year of high school was nearing an end and I was about to show up to my last semester before graduation as a hijabi. The impending change terrified me. But, change can be good. 

Embracing change is a journey that often leads us to discover the true essence of our identity, and for many Muslim women, making the intention to wear the hijab marks a pivotal moment in this journey. The decision to wear the hijab is not just a change in appearance; it's a transformative step towards getting closer to Allah (swt) – aligning one's inner beliefs with their outward expression.

Hijab is more than just a fabric. To me, it is a symbol of empowerment, resilience, and self-discovery – a tool for expressing identity. In a world that sometimes blurs the lines of authenticity, it’s crucial to find the capability to pave your own path. Wearing the hijab serves as a constant reminder to myself about my purpose as a Muslimah. It’s both a visual and emotional shield to inspire myself to ask the following questions: “Am I pleasing my Lord?” “Where does Allah (swt) show up on my to-do list?” “Should I be doing this?” 

Here’s the biggest misconception for those who comment on a woman’s hijab journey. We aren’t doing this for anyone else, except ourselves. It is a personal decision we make to embrace a profound sense of faith and spirituality. It has allowed me to become closer to Allah (swt) in ways I couldn’t have imagined otherwise. Truthfully, I don’t wear it except for myself and to please the Creator of the universe. It’s a decision I made, and I continue to make, because it makes me who I am. 

The hijab is a bridge between the inner self and the external world. It signifies strength in convictions and the courage to stand out amidst a crowd. As the world races on with trends and fashion fads, the hijab remains a timeless accessory that exudes elegance. In a world that often glorifies external appearances, the hijab gently reminds us that true beauty is rooted in the heart and soul. Hijab encapsulates a world of emotions, experiences, and aspirations – a true testament to the beauty within and without.

In embracing the change that comes with wearing the hijab, I find myself on a beautiful journey of self-formation – working towards becoming my best self. It's a journey that requires self-reflection, resilience, and an unyielding sense of purpose. 

To my fellow hijabis or those pondering wearing it, as we navigate this path, we carve out an identity that's uniquely our own – an identity that radiates strength, confidence, and an unapologetic embrace of who we are.

Embrace your hijab journey wholeheartedly. You never know where it’ll take you. 

Aisha Nadeem is a YouTuber and marketing professional passionate about storytelling. She is also a Digital Content Specialist at Vela.