A Journey to Islam – The Story of Antonija Petra Gagulić (Lejle Hatidže)

*A Friendly Note to Readers*

This article shares the personal story of Antonija Petra Gagulić (Lejle Hatidže) and her journey to Islam. Regardless of your own beliefs or worldview, I kindly ask all readers to approach her story with respect, an open mind, and consideration for her faith, experiences, and personal choices. The purpose of this article is not to debate or persuade, but to introduce a person, her journey, and what gives her meaning, strength, and peace.

This text is based on the personal testimony of Antonija Petra Gagulić (Lejle Hatidže) and has been written in the third person while preserving her thoughts, feelings, and messages.

Antonija Petra Gagulić was first drawn to Islam by its logic, clarity, and harmony between faith, reason, and knowledge. In Islam, she found a way of life that guides every aspect of human existence. She believes that many of the world's problems could be reduced if people properly understood and applied its values.

Her path to Islam was not an easy one. She faced many trials, each difficult in its own way, yet those very challenges shaped her and strengthened her faith. During her hardest moments, she found comfort in the words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), which gave her strength and perseverance. The greatest challenge she recalls was helping her family come to terms with her decision to embrace Islam, something that is often difficult in traditional families.

One of the most significant moments of her life came when she first saw the Kaaba in Makkah. At that moment, she felt that every hardship, sacrifice, and consequence of embracing Islam had found its meaning. She describes that experience as confirmation that she had made the right decision. Her only thought was: “It was worth it.”

Islam transformed her life profoundly, from her daily habits to the way she views the world, other people, and herself. It changed her relationship with food, clothing, people, and life in general. Living in Sarajevo played a particularly important role in her spiritual growth, as it broadened her understanding of Islam and allowed her to deepen her knowledge of the faith. It was there that she decided to begin wearing the hijab.

Before embracing Islam, like many converts, her greatest fear was her family's reaction. Despite this, she continued searching for what she believed to be the truth.

To anyone exploring Islam, she advises making an honest comparison between their current beliefs and the teachings of Islam. She believes it is important to question one's assumptions and sincerely seek the truth with an open heart.

After embracing Islam, she chose the name Lejla Hatidža. Since she was born with two names, she decided to continue having two names after becoming Muslim.

The name Lejla holds a special meaning for her. It refers to a deep, dark, and beautiful night, and she saw something of herself reflected in that symbolism.

The name Hatidža was chosen for her by her husband because she reminded him of Hatidža (may Allah be pleased with her), the first Muslim and the beloved wife of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Hatidža is remembered as a wise, determined, and successful woman who stood by her husband when many others doubted him. Her strength, loyalty, and love are qualities that Antonija deeply admires.

When it comes to the Qur'an, she finds it difficult to choose just one chapter or verse. However, Surah Al-Anbiya (The Prophets), the 21st chapter of the Qur'an, holds a particularly special place in her heart.

When speaking about Muslim women, she emphasizes that they are human beings like everyone else, with both strengths and weaknesses. They are not angels or perfect individuals. She believes one of the greatest misconceptions is the idea that Islam diminishes the value of women. On the contrary, she sees Islam as a faith that grants women dignity, honor, and rights, and she believes every sincere Muslim woman can be proud of belonging to a faith that values and protects her.

Today, she views her life before Islam as “the darkest night before dawn.” She believes that even her most difficult experiences were part of a journey that ultimately led her to where she is now.

If she could speak to her younger self before embracing Islam, she would say:

"Stay strong. You will succeed. One day you will see that everything you are going through was worth it. You can do this. You will be proud of yourself. A beautiful life awaits you. Success is just around the corner. Do not be afraid, and do not give up."

Of all the blessings Allah has granted her, she is most grateful for guidance. She believes that no one can guide a person to the Straight Path except Allah, and for that reason she considers guidance to be the greatest gift she has ever received.

 A Personal Note from the Author

Antonija and I were best friends for five years. I had the privilege of witnessing part of her journey to Islam from up close and being there for her during a period of major life changes. I remember moments when some of her faith-related belongings were kept at my home and when she would get ready there before attending gatherings with Muslims.

As her best friend, I was genuinely happy to help her in any way she needed. I never saw it as a burden, but rather as a privilege to support someone I cared about while she was finding her path. To me, true friendship has always meant offering support, listening without judgment, and respecting whatever brings another person peace, purpose, and happiness.

Although our lives eventually took different directions, I am sincerely grateful to have witnessed such an important chapter of her story. I wish her nothing but the best, along with peace, happiness, and Allah's blessings on the path she has chosen.

If you would like to follow Lejla journey, learn more about her work, or stay updated with her future projects, you can find her on the social media platforms listed below.