From Hollywood to Europe: Powerful journeys to Islam

The number of people embracing Islam continues to rise globally—not only in Muslim countries but also across Europe, America and Asia. Research shows that in the Netherlands alone, about 500 people convert to Islam every year. Many say Islamophobia ironically pushed them to learn more, and their research led them to peace. Below are the most striking and brief life-changing moments from new Muslims around the world: Sean Ali Stone – 'I was born Ali; it just took time to find the name.' Hollywood director Oliver Stone's son was raised Jewish and baptized Christian. While filming in Iran, he realized he already believed in one God and the prophethood of Muhammad. Declaring this belief out loud made him Muslim. Stone says Islam brought him clarity and purpose. Vincent Montagne – 'Islam gave me a peace I found nowhere else.' The French scholar studied Islamic lands for years before converting in Mauritania in 1977. He was struck by Muslims' simplicity, courage and shared moral values. For him, Islam means a way of life that unites faith and justice. Yusuf Estes – 'Islam was the only faith I never studied... until truth found me.' A devoted Christian pastor from Texas, Estes met a Muslim he initially wanted to convert. Instead, his wife accepted Islam first. After months of inner struggle, Estes prayed like Muslims and felt a deep transformation. He now dedicates his life to explaining Islam. Lauren Booth – 'Muslims embraced me with peace.' British journalist and Tony Blair's sister-in-law, Booth was moved by the calmness she saw in Muslim worshippers. After visiting Iran and praying in the Masumeh Shrine, she declared her faith publicly. Islam helped her leave alcohol and rebuild her life with peace. Nicole Queen – 'When I face God, what will I say about my life?' A famous American nightlife photographer, Queen lived a wild party life until she questioned its emptiness. After watching converts' stories online, she embraced Islam in 2007. Her turning point was asking herself what she would answer to God about how she lived. Lynne Ali – 'I was a slave to a broken society.' A radio host from Essex, Lynne lived a party lifestyle until she met a Muslim classmate. Realizing Islam held the peace she had searched for, she converted and chose the hijab as a symbol of freedom, not restriction. Ishaq Mustaqim – 'I chased happiness—and found it only in Islam.' Growing up in Canadian street gangs, Ishaq went from prison to wealth and back again. Nothing satisfied him until a Muslim cellmate introduced him to the Qur'an. Later he met a Muslim woman, continued his research, and converted—seeking a life of honesty and contribution. Susan Carland – 'Marry anyone you want—just not a Muslim!' Told by her mother to avoid Muslims, Australian academic Susan Carland studied Islam for two years and embraced it at 19. Her mother initially saw her as a 'victim,' but later accepted her choice. Susan now teaches gender studies and works to explain Islam in Australian media. Across continents and cultures, the stories of new Muslims share one theme: a search for peace, truth, and belonging. Whether through personal struggles, research, curiosity, or encounters with everyday Muslims, each journey highlights Islam's broad appeal in a chaotic world. From filmmakers to scholars and ordinary people, their stories show how faith transcends borders and how spiritual transformation often begins with a single moment of clarity.

From Hollywood to Europe: Powerful journeys to Islam

Across the world, people from diverse backgrounds are embracing Islam. From celebrities to ordinary individuals, each tells a story of searching, questioning, and finally finding peace.