Youth, community and education : a study on Australian Muslim youth

This study investigated notions of identity, education and expectations of Australian born Muslim youth from Sunni Muslim migrant communities in Melbourne. The selected group included Australian Born Muslim Youth (ABMY) who believed in core Islamic beliefs and who embedded religious teachings in their daily lives. Data was collected in two stages. Initially 150 Questionnaires were distributed to ABMY, 39 were completed and returned. 10 ABMY, 5 parents and 5 community leaders were also interviewed. Factors shaping the identity of ABMY and their religious education, expectations of their parents have been investigated. Data collected indicated that ABMY preferred to be identified as 'Australian Muslims'. They learn about religion from a variety of sources including study circles, printed materials and online resources. Parents expected their children to learn and follow their religious teachings. Community members expected ABMY to interact and contribute to their religion and the greater society. All ABMY involved in this study saw their future as challenging and hopeful. As a result their sense of Australian identity remained solid amid challenges they face