Iyaan Ali Adam Becomes Fohdhoo’s First Hafiz at Just 18

In a remarkable journey of perseverance and faith, 18-year-old Mohamed Iyaan Ali Adam has become the first Hafiz from N. Fohdhoo. His accomplishment marks a proud milestone for his family, his island, and the wider Maldivian community.

A Lifelong Passion for the Quran

From an early age, Iyaan showed a deep love for the Quran. According to his mother, Haamidha Ibrahim, he had expressed a strong desire to memorize the Holy Book since he was a young child. Though his path wasn’t always smooth, his passion never wavered.

Despite initial setbacks—including being unable to pass the interviews for Hafiz training programs in 2015 and 2016—Iyaan continued his memorization journey at home with his family’s support.

Finding Opportunity After Setbacks

In 2017, after memorizing three juz independently, Iyaan was accepted into the National Centre for the Holy Quran. This opportunity marked a turning point in his journey.

"It took Iyaan five years to memorize the Quran," his mother shared. "Two of those years had no lessons due to the Covid pandemic, which slowed his progress."

Still, Iyaan remained committed. Balancing studies and Quran memorization, he pushed forward with quiet determination.

According to the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Iyaan officially began reciting the Quran from memory at the Quran Memorization Centre on May 19. He recited one juz each day, completing the full Quran by June 30.

Passing at the top level, Iyaan’s achievement was officially recognized when Minister Shaheem met with him and his family at the Islamic Centre. The Minister congratulated Iyaan and encouraged him to continue on this spiritual path.

One of the biggest challenges Iyaan faced was managing his time. Currently a Grade 12 student at Villa International School, Iyaan is studying in two academic streams—an intense schedule for any student. Yet, even with these academic pressures, he managed to achieve what many only dream of.

Haamidha noted how her son stayed disciplined and focused, often studying late into the night and using any free time to revise and recite the Quran.

Iyaan’s accomplishment is more than a personal victory. It stands as a symbol of dedication, resilience, and faith for youth across the Maldives. His story reminds us that with consistent effort and support, even the most ambitious goals can be achieved. As Fohdhoo celebrates its first Hafiz, many are hopeful that Iyaan's journey will inspire more young people to pursue religious education and personal growth rooted in faith and perseverance.