I’m Attia Amir, and my path to HIF was anything but linear.
While studying human rights in Sweden, I faced a difficult realization: many international safeguards are often swayed by interests that didn’t align with my faith or ethics. I knew that to make a change that truly resonated with my Islamic values, I had to forge a new trail.
I spent years in the insurance industry learning about security, but it wasn’t until I became a mother that I felt the urgency to build a better future for the next generation. At HIF, I finally found the alignment I was looking for. Within a month of joining the community, I became part of the team – transitioning from student to advocate.
Having recently made my first halal ETF investment, and making a field trip to Ethiopia representing HIF. I’m now dedicated to helping the Ummah navigating the world of finance with empowerment. I finally felt at peace when I understood that financial stability and growth is not just about numbers, but about balance of preparing for tomorrow while fully living today. As a Muslim woman navigating dunya with purpose, I believe that aligning faith, finances, and personal growth is the most powerful form of wealth.
If you had to choose one word to describe your money journey with the HIF community, what would it be & why?
Uncertain.
Before meeting Selvie, I knew nothing about investing. I would see everyone online talking about trading and investing, but I didn’t understand it. I also didn’t know there were ethical ways to invest. As a woman from South Asia, I had always believed that investing was something meant for men, not for someone like me. It felt intimidating and out of reach.
What inspired you to join HIF and take your first steps into investing?
I wanted to break the cycle of financial hesitation and finally learn how to invest in a way that aligns with my deen. I was inspired by seeing other Muslim women confidently taking control of their finances, and I realised it was time to do the same for myself and my future.
You’ve just returned from Ethiopia with Islamic Relief and representing HIF. Tell us a little about the trip and what this opportunity meant to you personally.
When Selvie offered our team the chance to travel to Ethiopia with Islamic Relief, I didn’t hesitate. I knew it was a rare opportunity to witness the work up close so I went on to cancel the family trip that was planned for the same dates to Portugal.
In Addis Ababa, we visited orphans and their families. The mothers tried to smile, but their eyes revealed a weight no one should have to carry. The children greeted us softly, their innocence standing against realities far too harsh. Yet despite everything, they were deeply grateful for the support, knowing it could change not only the orphan’s life, but the life of the entire family. A few days later, we traveled to Jigjiga for Ramadan food distribution. Families waited for hours under the sun, some with nothing to eat at home. When they received their food packs, many whispered prayers, their voices trembling with relief and gratitude.
The trip was short, but the suffering and the fragile hope I witnessed stayed with me. It reminded me how unfair life can be and how powerful it is when we show up for those who have no one else. Representing HIF reminded me that financial empowerment isn’t just personal. It gives us the ability to support others meaningfully and reminded me why sadaqah and service must always stay at the heart of my journey.
How do you see investing, faith and community work coming together as a Muslimah?
For me, they’re all interconnected. Faith guides what I invest in, investing gives me stability and freedom, and community work keeps me grounded and purposeful. When done together, they create a balanced life where wealth becomes a tool for goodness, not just personal gain.
What’s one key lesson or realization you’ve gained from being part of HIF community?
That I’m not alone. There are so many women navigating the same fears and dreams. Having a supportive, faith-aligned community makes the journey easier and more empowering.
Investing is important, but what’s one thing you’ll happily spend on guilt-free?
Travel. Experiences that expand my perspective and reconnect me with gratitude always feel worth it.
Is there a Quranic verse or hadith about money/wealth that inspires you?
“And whatever you spend in good, He will replace it. He is the best provider “(Qur’an 34:39)
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Charity does not in any way decrease the wealth.” (Sahih Muslim 2588)
These verse and Hadith remind me that generosity never decreases wealth, it purifies it and invites barakah.
If you could give one piece of advice to a sister thinking about joining a HIF program, what would it be? Would you recommend this course to her?
Absolutely. I woud tell her: don’t wait for the ‘perfect time’. Learning about money is an act of empowerment. HIF gives you clarity, confidence and a community that genuinely wants you to succeed.
Next big money goal for yourself.
To build a strong investment portfolio that supports long-term stability and allows me to contribute more consistently to causes I care about.
Where can sisters connect with you online?
@Attia_amir786
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This article was based on discussions we have in our investor community of our halal investing programs. Her Islamic Finance is your Swiss-based Finance Educator taking Muslimah’s all over the world through Financial Literacy – Investing – Leaving Their Legacy. Read the all 5-star Reviews of our Thriving Community to get inspired by more testimonies.