I'm your host, Sekina Yakub, and in this episode of The Hearts Connect Podcast, I sit down with Rukayat Yakub for a powerful conversation about belonging, faith, identity, community, anti-blackness, heart work, and love. Rukayat shares her journey between the UK, Nigeria, and the US, reflecting on how different communities, mentors, unexpected encounters, and periods of solitude shaped her relationship with Islam. She discusses the difference between fitting in and truly belonging, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel safe to be their authentic selves. Rukayat also explores her work around anti-blackness and the Islamic concept of tazkiyah — purifying the heart and examining the beliefs and biases we carry. She reflects on history, systems of oppression, asking who benefits, and approaching difficult conversations with curiosity rather than blame. We also talk about loneliness, spiritual growth, aligning personal goals with faith, and the transformative power of love.

Takeaways

• The difference between belonging and simply fitting in
• Creating safe spaces where people can be authentic
• The role of community and connection in strengthening faith
• Migration, identity, loneliness, and finding belonging
• Understanding anti-blackness and the systems that uphold it
• Tazkiyah and the importance of heart work and self-reflection
• Challenging inherited beliefs with curiosity
• Aligning personal goals with spiritual values
• The transformative power of love and its role in building community

Chapters

00:12 Introduction to Hearts Connect

• 01:56 The Meaning of Connection
• 04:51 Defining Moments and Belonging
• 07:50 Creating Safe Spaces
• 09:15 Understanding Anti-Blackness and Belonging
• 11:15 Misunderstandings and Stereotypes
• 12:48 Daily Habits and Spiritual Practices
• 14:27 Rediscovering Faith and Purpose
• 21:29 Navigating Disconnection and Solitude
• 23:53 Heart Work and Spiritual Growth
• 24:45 Aligning Personal Goals with Spiritual Values
• 25:20 Understanding Heart Work and Anti-Blackness
• 30:54 The Impact of Anti-Blackness on Society
• 37:26 Recognizing the Powers That Be
• 42:24 The Essence of Love in Life

About the Podcast

The Hearts Connect Podcast is rooted in authentic storytelling and spiritually grounded self-development. Inspired by the book Hearts Connect, which documents the lived experiences of African and Afro-Caribbean converts to Islam in the UK, this podcast continues meaningful conversations around faith, healing, identity, and building healthy relationships — with ourselves, with Allah, and with others.

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