“Breathe” Edition #01, Letter from the Editor

Welcome to the inaugural issue of Friday, the only conscious lifestyle magazine dedicated to visionary Muslim women like you. This moment is the culmination of a journey that’s taken year of focussed work, but in reality, it’s been over two decades in the making; sometimes in varying iterations, always in my heart and mind.

Creating this magazine has been a labour of love for me, with countless hours of research, connecting with and being mentored by industry professionals, and ensuring we meet the highest standards. It’s been a process of levelling up, finding talented women to write and contribute, and curating the type of content that truly serves you, our readers. The short answer is, it took a year. The long answer? It took a lifetime.

Since stepping into the working world as an eager twenty-something, I’ve navigated the usual complexities of being a visible Muslim woman, finding my place in a career where there simply were no people like me. Maturing friendships, marriage, the joys and challenges of parenthood, the loss of my elders, and the constant search for belonging in spaces that often feel unwelcoming; all of these experiences have shaped my vision for Friday, refining what this magazine needs to be for all of us and I’m grateful that the journey took the time it did. The magazine before you today is exactly what it needs to be and what you need it to be. It’s a reflection of the confidence I’ve gained as a Muslim woman, and I hope it inspires that same confidence in you.

At the age I am now, I’ve finally learned to breathe, to find strength in clarity and focus. I want this magazine to be a space where you can also pause, reflect, and breathe your way through whatever life is currently serving up on your plate. Our stories are long, thoughtful, and meant to be savoured, ruminating in your soul days after you’ve read them. They’re not just articles; they’re essays that touch on conscious living – on life, style and everything in-between – because we are nothing if not layered, intellectual and beautiful on the inside as well as the out. We love to get personal, raw, and honest, and together we tell a tapestry of stories that reflect our shared experiences.

This first edition is themed ‘Breathe,’ an invitation to slow down and take stock of the life we are living. Our Style content explores sustainability, slow fashion, and the complexities of haircare for Black women. Our cover story with Mariah Idrissi was a poignant reflection to write as we delved into the impact of overconsumption on our identity and the planet. Our Self content dives into the nuances of generational shifts, the breaking of unhealthy patterns, and embracing slow living over hustle culture. We reflect on the challenges of grief and letting go, using it as fuel to push us into action, and on finding new strength through seemingly subtle acts of worship. Looking beyond that to the World, we bring you an intimate account of finding a path into Parliament, a deep dive on a new book discussing the impact of white feminism on Muslim women, and a special closing piece penned by our youngest writer. Proof that this really is a magazine for all ages.

We’re living in a world that regularly stereotypes and divides us. So, in answer to that, Friday will always be about unity, collaboration, and strength. It’s about coming together with a common goal, supporting each other and being focussed on building our own tables before we go looking for seats at others’. This is a space for all Muslim women, no matter where you are in your life. Whether you’re in your teens, twenties, thirties or beyond, you’ll find something here that resonates with you.

We’ve made this magazine with the intention that it’s collected, shared, and cherished. Show it to your nearests, lend it to your loved ones, and let the stories linger in your mind. Over time we aim to build a library of biannual memories that will refresh and invigorate you each time you read them. Our energy, love, and tears have been poured into every page. I know you’ll love it as much as I’ve loved creating it. Take a deep breath, and enjoy.

Until next time, with love and gratitude,

S x