My Story
The Road to Islam,
to Newsroom,
to Law School,
to Diplomacy
A Journey of Faith, World Views and Global Dialogue
I was born in 1974, in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne. I had what I describe as a ‘normal childhood’ – ballet lessons, racing snails, building forts in the backyard with my brothers, climbing trees, Easter egg hunts and Christmas trees. There was a lot of jazz music and Dad would take us overseas a lot, mainly to Asia and America. I loved everything that was different and my, ‘why?’ was always just a thought away, so it was no surprise I’d end up working in newsrooms, but law, diplomacy and Islam?
As a moderator and emcee, I offer a rich portfolio of experience designed for connection, nuance and meaningful conversation. I love the Arabic principle of adab الأدب - a value shaped by Arab culture and Islamic ethics, which embodies respectful, thoughtful, and dignified conduct in every interaction. I always appreciate observing it, and as such, try to always stay grounded in a state of adab.
Reconciliation
June 3 marks the end of Reconciliation Week 2025 in Australia - a dedicated time where Australians are encouraged to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
It is also Mabo Day.
In 1788 when the British settled under the doctrine of terra nullius – land belonging to no-one - the Crown assumed absolute beneficial title to all land in the newly settled colony. It took 204 years for this legal fallacy to be overturned - on 3 June 1992 - in the landmark case Mabo v Queensland (No 2) which led to the introduction of the Native Title Act (1993).
I feel a deeper connection to my Australian identity through our shared 65,000-year history, especially since choosing to embrace Islam in 2004. For years I lived in the, "spiritual closet" struggling with what it means to be an Anglo-Australian Muslim woman, but through an experience profoundly influenced by the spirit of Aboriginal Australia this changed.
I am from Melbourne, Victoria where it is understood that around 60,000 Aboriginal people may have lived pre-European contact. By the early 1850's when my ancestors began arriving from England, the population of Indigenous people was less than 2,000.
I want to honour this part of our country’s story, it's part of the reconciliation and the meeting of minds process. I am passionate about reconciliation, because when we honour the truth of our past, we can then pave the way forward, inspired by authentic living and positive change. Sharing our stories is powerful. It activates our humanity, enables understanding, promotes healing and ultimately, allows us all to walk forward together.
Why Assentio Mentium?
What’s in a name: Why Assentio Mentium?
You may wonder why I chose to focus the name of my website on a Latin maxim. The answer lies in my belief - or hope - in the enduring impression of principles over individual identity. As a professional moderator, I strive to embody the importance of understanding and meaningful dialogue. This shifts the focus from who I am to what we stand for, creating a sense of universality and timelessness that resonates beyond individual recognition. Assentio mentium starts a conversation.
Reflecting on my Mid-Life Decision to Study Law
At 45 years of age and just prior to Covid, I was inspired to embark on the Juris Doctor. For anyone who has embarked on such a challenge, I suspect you may relate to the reflection that the learning journey is a gift. I am taking my time, savoring every morsel, and with each knowledge bite I am nourished in ways I could never have imagined.
I am getting to know myself at a deeper level.