Becoming Muslim

Cherylene Fatupaito was born in New Zealand and grew up in her Samoan family in the Christian faith. She later married a Muslim man and became a mum to three sons, however, it was only three years ago that she converted to Islam. Fatupaito never expected to become Muslim however following her divorce she picked up a free book on the faith at the butchers and began to read. Her curiosity grew and a few months later she officially converted. Fatupaito said “I became Muslim knowing that there were going to be some restrictions…that’s all I could see but it’s not, it’s more of acceptance.”

Converting to the Muslim faith in her forties, Fatupaito met some hesitance from non-Muslim friends and family but after explaining her reasons she received support. Fatupaito is comfortable in her faith and doesn’t need others approval of her decision to join the often-misunderstood religion.

Fatupaito is not alone in converting to Islam as according to Stuff New Zealand mosques have reported an increase in people attending over the past few years and the number of people converting increased after the Christchurch mosque terror attacks in March 2019.

Fatupaito says her faith means so much to her because it is spiritual, rewarding and charitable. She says it has connected her to likeminded people and she has Muslim sister friends to rely on and connect with. Her dedication to her faith is strong as she takes Arabic language classes once a week so she can read the Quran and during Ramadan participates in the voluntary two hour nightly prayer.

Earlier his year Fatupaito prepared for the holy month of Ramadan – a Muslim practice dedicated to fasting and prayer for one month of the year. Fatupaito explains that the sacrifices you make and the more you help others result in great rewards and says “It gives you the opportunity to immerse in your faith.”

For Fatupaito, Ramadan is a chance to reset and focus on her beliefs. Weeks in advance she begins preparations, including fasting occasionally to physically prepare for the hunger and sending apology messages to friends to make amends for any wrongdoings. Her fasting is broken in the evening in the traditional way by consuming dates and water followed by a meal. Like Muslims all around the world Fatupaito will celebrate the end of Ramadan by sharing a meal with others in her community.