Irene Mineoi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of seeking knowledge and embracing change with faith. Born in Tokyo, Japan, and raised in Toledo, Ohio, Irene has lived a truly international life, with experiences spanning Japan, Qatar, and her current home in St. Paul, Minnesota. Her diverse background is matched by a career in education, having taught English as a Second Language (ESL) and music to students of all ages for over sixteen years.
However, 2023 marked a significant shift in her journey. Taking a year off from teaching, Irene decided to dive into Islamic studies with Ribaat, a decision fully supported by her family. This time off has been a gift, allowing her to focus on her faith and further her understanding of Islam—a passion sparked by her conversion in 2019.
Discovering Ribaat
Irene’s introduction to Ribaat was serendipitous. It began in the back room of Daybreak Press at the University of Minnesota, when Rabata Cultural Center did not yet exist, and her friend Ifrah invited her to attend an al-Qāʿida al-Nūrāniyya class with Anse Dr. Tamara Gray. From there, the seed was planted, and it didn’t take long for Irene to become a regular student at Ribaat, immersing herself in various courses.
Starting with a Tajwīd course to enhance her Quran reading fluency, Irene found herself captivated by the structured yet flexible approach of Ribaat’s curriculum. “Ribaat classes are addicting to sign up for!” she laughs, reflecting on her journey through Tajwīd, Arabic, and deeper dives into Islamic Studies. The practical nature of Fiqh courses has particularly resonated with her, thanks to the engaging teaching styles of Anse Eamaan and Anse ‘Alimatunnisa, who break down complex topics into digestible lessons.
A Community of Empowerment
For Irene, Ribaat is more than just a platform for Islamic education—it is a lifeline to a global sisterhood. Despite being a recent convert and living through the isolating times of the COVID-19 pandemic, she found solace and a sense of community through Ribaat’s online offerings. “I learned to pray from an app during COVID, but Ribaat’s virtual classes made me feel connected and less alone,” she shares.
Her personal journey has also been shaped by the mentorship of Ribaat’s female scholars. Irene draws inspiration from their leadership, a model that feels familiar given her upbringing as the daughter of a Lutheran pastor. One poignant moment stands out: a tearful session in a Tajwīd class with Anse Abeer. “I felt comfortable breaking down because Ribaat has created such a safe, supportive learning environment,” Irene recalls. It’s these experiences that make Ribaat a space where students feel seen, heard, and nurtured in their spiritual growth.
Aspirations and Future Goals
Looking ahead, Irene envisions a path of continuous learning and giving back. Her immediate goal is to gain a deeper understanding of Islamic knowledge for herself and her children. Long term, she aims to obtain the Ribaat Teacher Certification, aspiring to serve as an educator and advocate for Muslim youth. Irene’s background in education and her drive to become a principal—whether at an Islamic or public school—speaks volumes about her commitment to being a role model and guide for future generations.
Her passion for social justice issues, nurtured through courses like Advanced Seminar: A Look at Poverty, Justice, and Race in America at Ribaat, reflects her dedication to making a meaningful impact. “These are issues we cannot ignore in our dīn (religion),” she emphasizes, underscoring her desire to merge her professional skills with her spiritual values.
Hobbies and Personal Reflections
When she’s not engrossed in her studies, Irene finds joy in simple pleasures—walking by the Mississippi River, sipping strong coffee at local cafés, and singing. These moments offer her a chance to reflect on her journey and recharge her spirit. She fondly recalls her college years at a small Lutheran liberal arts school, where a group of Muslim students started a Muslim Students Association (MSA). Their efforts planted the first seeds of Islam in her life—seeds that have now flourished into a deep, vibrant faith.
For Irene, the essence of Ribaat lies in its community—a network of sisters who support each other’s growth and encourage one another to strive for a deeper understanding of Islam. As she continues her journey, she is filled with gratitude for the companionship she’s found along the way, and the many more milestones she hopes to achieve in her pursuit of knowledge.
In her own words, “Be patient; you never know where the seeds you plant will flourish.” For Irene Mineoi, those seeds have grown into a steadfast commitment to her faith, her family, and her community—a testament to the beauty of continuous learning and the transformative power of sisterhood in Islam, something we pray everyone at Ribaat will experience. Amīn!
