Kyai (Shaykh) Paul Salahuddin Armstrong is a British Muslim leader, multifaith advocate, and public speaker committed to fostering understanding, unity, and positive change in society. As the Managing Director (Amir) of the Association of British Muslims, the UK’s oldest Muslim organization, he leads a diverse and dedicated team representing and supporting the broad spectrum of British Muslim communities.

An alumnus of the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and an Associate of St George’s House, Paul has extensive experience in various fields, including media, diplomacy, multifaith relations, human rights, policy-making, countering extremism, outreach, and third-sector initiatives. He also serves as a Muslim Chaplain at the University of Birmingham, providing spiritual guidance and pastoral care to students and staff.

Early Life and Education

Paul is the eldest son of Richard and Isabel Armstrong. Born and raised in Redditch, Worcestershire, Paul developed a keen interest in knowledge and exploration from an early age. He pursued a BSc in Ecology at the University of Wolverhampton but discovered his true calling in religious studies and spirituality. In 1998, his personal quest for meaning led him to explore various faith traditions, culminating in his decision to embrace Islam on 1st March 2000. His journey of spiritual discovery introduced him to the teachings of renowned scholars and Sufi masters, shaping his understanding of Islam as a faith of wisdom, compassion, and service.

Spiritual Training and Scholarship

Paul’s thirst for knowledge led him to study under esteemed scholars and murshids, including Shaykh Sufi Muhammad Abdullah Khan, Shaykh Muhammad Nazim Adil Al-Haqqani, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf Hanson, Shaykh Muhammad Hisham Kabbani, Shaykh Daoud Rosser-Owen, Shaykh Mehmet Adil, Shaykh Muhammad Amin-Evans, Shaykh Manwar Ali, and Shaykh Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri. He has also studied classical works by great Islamic scholars such as Imam Malik, Imam Ali, Imam Bukhari, Imam Muslim, Imam Zayn al-Abidin, Shaykh Abdul Qadir al-Jilani, and Imam Ghazali.

His affiliation with the Naqshbandi Sufi Tariqah (Sufi order) and Nahdlatul Ulama reflects Paul’s holistic approach to faith, which encourages intellectual inquiry, spiritual reflection, and active engagement in society. In his roles as an imam and murshid, he has served British and international Muslim communities for over 15 years, advocating for a balanced and inclusive approach to Islam.

Leadership and Community Engagement

Beyond leading the Association of British Muslims, Paul is actively involved in numerous community and multifaith initiatives. He has previously worked with Interfaith Wolverhampton and is the founder of the Wulfruna Sufi Association, which is dedicated to fostering spiritual growth and social harmony.

With a passion for education and outreach, Paul regularly contributes to media discussions, academic forums, and policy dialogues on Islam, multifaith relations, counter-extremism, and community development. His work is driven by a vision of a more compassionate and understanding world, where people of all backgrounds can coexist in peace and mutual respect.

Personal Interests and Philosophy

Outside of his professional and religious commitments, Paul has a keen interest in science, technology, nature, gardening, and photography. He believes that faith and reason should go hand in hand and that true spirituality inspires both personal growth and meaningful contributions to society. His approach to faith is rooted in the principles of respect, inclusivity, and lifelong learning, recognizing that Islam, like all major religions, is diverse and multifaceted.

Paul’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, faith, and service in transforming lives and communities. Whether through his leadership, scholarship, or mentorship, he remains dedicated to building bridges and fostering a more harmonious and enlightened world.

For inquiries, Paul can be reached at paul.armstrong@aobm.org.