My name is Mark Washington, and I am also known as Mukhtar Ali.
My journey to Islam was shaped by my upbringing, personal exploration, and an ongoing search for truth.
I grew up surrounded by a large extended family of 20 aunts and uncles, many of whom struggled with drug addiction, criminal activity, or dropping out of school. Their lives served as cautionary examples for me. One aunt graduated from college but was tragically killed by her husband when I was very young. Witnessing these struggles instilled in me a desire to chart a different path for myself.
My earliest encounter with transformative ideas came during Black History Month at school. While I was working on a report about a black musician, another student presented on Malcolm X. His story captivated me. Later, while in punishment at home, I discovered The Autobiography of Malcolm X. I recognized many of the characters he described in my own family and was inspired by his personal transformation—from hardship to purpose. This book ignited my interest in reading broadly and questioning life’s narratives. I started exploring books on diverse topics: from the Bhagavad Gita and Torah to yoga, chakras, herbology, and Tai Chi. These explorations gradually drew me into religious and philosophical questions.
At around 15 or 16, while in summer school, I met a Cambodian Muslim brother who invited me to Jumu’ah (Friday prayers). That day, I made my shahada and embraced Islam. The next day, I began recognizing the practical and moral changes required in my life. Coming from a non-religious background, I had no deeply rooted ideals, which allowed me to approach Islam from multiple perspectives and adopt what resonated most authentically.
During this period, I also pursued my passions for fashion and music. I studied fashion design in high school and college, even studying abroad in London, Milan, and Paris. Professionally, I worked as a wardrobe stylist for celebrities and later as VP of A&R for Uprising Records, helping launch bands like Fall Out Boy. Yet, as my religiosity grew, I faced ethical and spiritual dilemmas: matching visual art to music with haram content conflicted with my beliefs. Ultimately, I withdrew from projects that did not align with my moral framework.
Initially, I identified with Sunni Islam. But my curiosity and dedication to research led me into Islamic history, jurisprudence, and philosophy. I explored different schools of thought and examined vegetarianism, yoga, reflexology, and herbal medicine in light of Islamic principles. Through this research, I discovered Ja’fari fiqh and Shi’a teachings. I learned about the lives of Fatima, Hasan, and Hussein, and I encountered Shi’a groups who cited Sunni sources to validate historical events. This careful study convinced me that Shi’a Islam aligned with my understanding of justice, morality, and faith.
I also resonated with specific Shi’a principles: the infallibility of prophets, and the practice of mut’a as a legitimate, structured approach to relationships—a concept that offered practical moral solutions compared to the societal norms I had witnessed in the West. Through these reflections, I embraced Shi’a Islam fully.
When I took my shahada, I chose the name Mukhtar Ali, inspired by Mukhtar al-Thaqafi, a historical figure whose ideals—religious devotion, entrepreneurship, and justice—resonated deeply with me.
Travel has also shaped my spiritual journey. Despite skepticism about safety, I traveled to Iraq and Iran, seeking a connection with the resting places of Prophets Adam and Noah, and Imam Ali. Being near these sacred sites profoundly impacted me. I experienced deep spiritual reflection, walking long distances with fellow believers, and participating in rituals that strengthened my faith. These experiences were transformative, connecting me to history, spirituality, and a global community of Muslims.
My journey into Islam has been one of intellectual exploration, personal challenge, and spiritual awakening. I have learned to critically examine the world, align my actions with my beliefs, and seek knowledge continuously. Islam has not only shaped my moral and spiritual life but has also guided me in balancing faith with professional and personal pursuits, helping me navigate ethical decisions in every domain of my life.
Alhamdulillah, my path continues to be one of learning, reflection, and devotion. I am grateful for the guidance I have found in Shi’a Islam and the opportunities to grow closer to God through knowledge, practice, and service.
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Dec 23 2025
Conversion Story of “Mark Washington (Mukhtar Ali)”
My name is Mark Washington, and I am also known as Mukhtar Ali.
My journey to Islam was shaped by my upbringing, personal exploration, and an ongoing search for truth.
I grew up surrounded by a large extended family of 20 aunts and uncles, many of whom struggled with drug addiction, criminal activity, or dropping out of school. Their lives served as cautionary examples for me. One aunt graduated from college but was tragically killed by her husband when I was very young. Witnessing these struggles instilled in me a desire to chart a different path for myself.
My earliest encounter with transformative ideas came during Black History Month at school. While I was working on a report about a black musician, another student presented on Malcolm X. His story captivated me. Later, while in punishment at home, I discovered The Autobiography of Malcolm X. I recognized many of the characters he described in my own family and was inspired by his personal transformation—from hardship to purpose. This book ignited my interest in reading broadly and questioning life’s narratives. I started exploring books on diverse topics: from the Bhagavad Gita and Torah to yoga, chakras, herbology, and Tai Chi. These explorations gradually drew me into religious and philosophical questions.
At around 15 or 16, while in summer school, I met a Cambodian Muslim brother who invited me to Jumu’ah (Friday prayers). That day, I made my shahada and embraced Islam. The next day, I began recognizing the practical and moral changes required in my life. Coming from a non-religious background, I had no deeply rooted ideals, which allowed me to approach Islam from multiple perspectives and adopt what resonated most authentically.
During this period, I also pursued my passions for fashion and music. I studied fashion design in high school and college, even studying abroad in London, Milan, and Paris. Professionally, I worked as a wardrobe stylist for celebrities and later as VP of A&R for Uprising Records, helping launch bands like Fall Out Boy. Yet, as my religiosity grew, I faced ethical and spiritual dilemmas: matching visual art to music with haram content conflicted with my beliefs. Ultimately, I withdrew from projects that did not align with my moral framework.
Initially, I identified with Sunni Islam. But my curiosity and dedication to research led me into Islamic history, jurisprudence, and philosophy. I explored different schools of thought and examined vegetarianism, yoga, reflexology, and herbal medicine in light of Islamic principles. Through this research, I discovered Ja’fari fiqh and Shi’a teachings. I learned about the lives of Fatima, Hasan, and Hussein, and I encountered Shi’a groups who cited Sunni sources to validate historical events. This careful study convinced me that Shi’a Islam aligned with my understanding of justice, morality, and faith.
I also resonated with specific Shi’a principles: the infallibility of prophets, and the practice of mut’a as a legitimate, structured approach to relationships—a concept that offered practical moral solutions compared to the societal norms I had witnessed in the West. Through these reflections, I embraced Shi’a Islam fully.
When I took my shahada, I chose the name Mukhtar Ali, inspired by Mukhtar al-Thaqafi, a historical figure whose ideals—religious devotion, entrepreneurship, and justice—resonated deeply with me.
Travel has also shaped my spiritual journey. Despite skepticism about safety, I traveled to Iraq and Iran, seeking a connection with the resting places of Prophets Adam and Noah, and Imam Ali. Being near these sacred sites profoundly impacted me. I experienced deep spiritual reflection, walking long distances with fellow believers, and participating in rituals that strengthened my faith. These experiences were transformative, connecting me to history, spirituality, and a global community of Muslims.
My journey into Islam has been one of intellectual exploration, personal challenge, and spiritual awakening. I have learned to critically examine the world, align my actions with my beliefs, and seek knowledge continuously. Islam has not only shaped my moral and spiritual life but has also guided me in balancing faith with professional and personal pursuits, helping me navigate ethical decisions in every domain of my life.
Alhamdulillah, my path continues to be one of learning, reflection, and devotion. I am grateful for the guidance I have found in Shi’a Islam and the opportunities to grow closer to God through knowledge, practice, and service.
👇👇👇Watch Video:👇👇👇
By english • Chronicles of the converted to Shia • 0 • Tags: converted to Islam, Converted to Shia, Mark Washington, Mostabserin, Mukhtar Ali, Reborn