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Have you ever wondered what it’s like to discover faith as an adult, to start over spiritually while carrying the weight of your past and the uncertainty of your future? In this heartfelt and deeply personal session, Narumi Maruyama shares her journey of embracing Islam—one that began not in a moment of dramatic change, but through quiet reflection and a growing sense of purpose.
Narumi is a Japanese HR consultant who has been working in Singapore for the past few years. In January 2024, she embraced Islam, stepping into a new chapter of life that brought both challenges and clarity. During this session, she will speak candidly about her journey: what first sparked her interest in Islam, how her perceptions evolved over time, and the process she took in learning about the faith before deciding to take her shahadah.
This is not just a story about conversion—it’s a story about seeking truth, navigating uncertainty, and finding peace in a new identity. Narumi will share how she balanced her spiritual journey with a demanding career, how she dealt with the reactions of those around her, and how she continues to grow in her understanding and practice of Islam. From the practical to the deeply personal, her reflections offer insight into what it truly means to embrace a new way of life as an adult.
She will also touch on how her background shaped the way she approached faith, and how her experiences living and working in a diverse society like Singapore provided both support and questions that she had to work through. With honesty and openness, Narumi invites others into her story—not as a finished chapter, but as a journey still unfolding.
Narumi Maruyama is a human resource consultant with over three years of experience in Singapore’s HR industry. Originally from Japan, she has built her career supporting organisations with talent development, recruitment strategies, and workplace engagement. Her professional journey is marked by a strong commitment to people and culture, both in the corporate environment and beyond.
In January 2024, Narumi embraced Islam, marking the beginning of a new and deeply personal chapter in her life. Since her conversion, she has been an active participant in programmes organised by Darul Arqam, where she finds community, knowledge, and spiritual growth. Her experience as a new Muslim navigating both faith and daily life brings a unique and heartfelt perspective to her involvement in the Muslim community.
Narumi’s journey reflects a meaningful blend of professional dedication and personal transformation. She hopes to support and inspire others—particularly fellow converts—through her story and active contribution to community programmes.
Mohammad Norfairus Rahim is a dedicated volunteer with My Community, where he leads tours such as the My Mount Faber heritage trail, sharing stories of Singapore’s royal history and wartime past. His engaging guiding style has earned recognition, including a feature on CNA’s docu-series “Singapore After Work.”
Norfairus is deeply committed to volunteerism across multiple sectors. In addition to his heritage work, he serves as a Counsellor (OJT) with Action for AIDS (AfA) Singapore, contributing to efforts that promote awareness, education, and support for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. His previous volunteer work includes roles with Aware Singapore, Oogachaga, and as a Needs Assessor with the Ministry of Social and Family Development—reflecting his broad dedication to social causes and community well-being.
Professionally, Norfairus is an experienced strategist and project manager, with a background in leading complex event projects and engaging public and private stakeholders. In 2024, he became Director of Social Arc Pte Ltd, a non-profit organisation that builds capacity for social organisations and promotes volunteerism in Singapore.
Through both professional and volunteer efforts, Norfairus is passionate about connecting people, fostering dialogue, and supporting community-driven solutions.
Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed.
Parking is available on Onan Road.
My Births and Rebirths
My Births and Rebirths
My Births and Rebirths
My Births and Rebirths
My Births and Rebirths
My Births and Rebirths
