Exploring the World, Deepening Your Faith With Deen Journeys
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In this inspiring episode of The Muslimah Business Show, we talk to Fariaa Israr and Iman Ahmednur, the co-founders of Deen Journeys—a faith-based travel and retreat company designed exclusively for Muslim women.
Deen Journeys curates transformative retreats that blend sisterhood, spirituality, and travel. Through intentional itineraries and reflective workshops, they aim to help Muslim women reconnect with themselves, their sisters, and most importantly, with Allah.
In this episode, Fariaa and Iman share how they turned their shared experiences of attending a Muslim women’s retreat into a thriving business that is now taking sisters around the world.
From Strangers to Founders
The story of Deen Journeys began in Spain, where Iman and Fariaa met as complete strangers during a Muslim women’s retreat hosted by the Sisters Getaway in collaboration with The Digital Sisterhood Podcast.
They were paired as roommates—a coincidence that would change both of their lives.
“We met as strangers and became sisters. That retreat was so transformative for both of us that we stayed in touch and realized how powerful curated travel experiences for Muslim women could be,” says Iman.
Their bond grew stronger over time, and they even organized a reunion trip to Norway and Switzerland, where they rediscovered the joy and spiritual growth that travel can bring.
During that trip, the seeds of Deen Journeys began to form.
“I remember sitting in Switzerland journaling about what I really wanted to do with my life,” recalls Fariaa. “I asked myself—what am I passionate about, and what does the world need more of? The answer was clear: faith, sisterhood, and travel.”
Finding Purpose Through Reflection
Before founding Deen Journeys, both women were already pursuing successful careers. Yet, they felt something was missing—a sense of purpose.
For Fariaa, that journey of self-discovery deepened when she enrolled in Peter Gould’s “Heart of Design” program, a creative entrepreneurship course rooted in Islamic principles.
“That course made me reflect deeply on my ‘why.’ It reframed what it means to be a creative. I realized that being creative isn’t just about art—it’s about creating experiences, connections, and impact,” says Fariaa.
Both founders emphasize the importance of reflection and community. Being around other Muslim creatives helped them see what was possible—and motivated them to take action.
“Being in community with other Muslim business owners inspires you to move forward,” Iman adds. “When you see people like you doing the work, it reminds you that you can too.”
Launching Deen Journeys
Turning their shared vision into a real business didn’t happen overnight. It started over a brunch conversation in Toronto, where they both realized they had the same idea brewing in their hearts.
But before rushing in, they took time to align their intentions and values.
“We wanted to make sure our values aligned. You can be great friends, but partnership is different—it’s about shared purpose,” says Iman.
They spent several days together in Orlando laying the foundation for Deen Journeys—crafting their mission, defining their vision, and setting up practical plans.
“We’re both planners,” laughs Iman. “We had spreadsheets, notes, timelines—but at the end of the day, Allah is the best of planners.”
Still, they emphasize that their journey began with messy action.
“We didn’t have it all figured out,” says Fariaa. “We just Googled how to start a business and took it one step at a time. You can’t wait for things to be perfect—take action with intention and let Allah guide the process.”
This approach, they say, has been key to their success: balancing tawakkul (trust in Allah) with action.
“As Muslims, you’re either celebrating or learning,” shares Fariaa. “You’re never losing. That mindset keeps us grounded.”
What a Transformative Retreat Really Means
When asked what a transformative retreat means to them, both women agree—it’s about spiritual and emotional renewal.
“For me, transformation means leaving an experience feeling inspired, seen, and connected,” says Fariaa. “Sometimes it’s not about changing—it’s about reaffirming what’s already within you.”
For Iman, transformation also includes a deeper connection with Allah.
“A true transformative retreat gives you an iman boost. You leave feeling more connected to your deen and to Allah. That’s what we want every sister to experience.”
Inside a Deen Journeys Retreat
Each retreat is carefully designed to combine reflection, sisterhood, and worship. Activities vary by destination, but there are a few signature elements that define every Deen Journeys experience.
1. Dua Workshop:
Led by Fariaa, this guided session helps participants deepen their understanding of dua by learning Allah’s names and attributes.
“So many of us have limiting beliefs around what we can ask Allah for,” explains Iman. “This workshop helps sisters reframe their mindset—Allah’s mercy is limitless.”
2. Guided Journaling:
Participants are given reflective prompts about faith and connection with Allah—questions like “What distracts you from Allah?” or “When do you feel closest to Him?”
“We create a safe space for silence, reflection, and vulnerability,” says Fariaa. “It’s not mandatory to share, but somehow, everyone always does. It’s beautiful.”
3. Grounding Exercises:
Deen Journeys incorporates mindfulness through sensory awareness practices.
“In our San Diego retreat, we did a five-senses exercise at sunset,” says Iman. “It helped sisters slow down and truly observe Allah’s creation.”
Each retreat balances faith, fun, and rest—ensuring that participants leave rejuvenated and spiritually uplifted.
Lessons for Muslim Women Entrepreneurs
Throughout their story, Iman and Fariaa share timeless lessons that apply not just to travel, but to entrepreneurship and life.
Take messy action: Don’t wait for perfection—start with what you have.
Align your values: Let faith guide your business decisions.
Trust Allah’s plan: Every step—whether success or challenge—is part of His design.
Find your community: Surround yourself with women who uplift your deen and dreams.
Reflect often: Clarity comes through dua, journaling, and reflection.
“At the end of the day,” says Iman, “our job is to take the first step with sincerity. Allah will guide the rest.”
Connect With Deen Journeys
Follow Deen Journeys on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deen.journeys/
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