Sophie Dianne explores the unexpected intersections between Love Island host Maya Jama’s glittering career, her complicated past, and her quiet yet persistent faith.
When I think of Love Island, Sodom and Gomorrah pops into my mind, but love it of loath it, the show has returned for its 12th season, with viewing figures of 1.4 million, proving that the tropical dating format, is still in high demand.
Maya Jama has remained at the helm, with her provocative outfits and blunt approach, that have proven popular with audiences.
In recent years, the 30-year-old presenting siren, has opened-up about her faith and background. Born in Bristol, Maya’s story is one of resilience. Her Somali born Muslim father was in and out of prison, for a series of violent offences. When she was just 12 years old, she cut ties with him.
READ MORE: Is Maya Jama a Christian? A look at the Love Island presenter’s faith
Years later, Maya moved to London, but after a short time, tragedy struck, she was on the phone to her boyfriend Rico Gordon, when he was shot. Proving her staying power, she decided to try and “make it work” in the city and moved in with her friend’s older sister, Penny, a woman she named her “guardian angel,” this friendship has proven transformational.
Penny nudged Jama towards Christianity, but she doesn’t describe herself as a being a ‘strict Christian,’
Penny nudged Maya towards Christianity, but she doesn’t describe herself as a being a ‘strict Christian,’ she does however, make an effort to pray every day: “It’s definitely a religious thing, but at the same time, I think you are manifesting something when you speak it out loud. Even when I’m not praying, I’ll talk about what I’d love to do and speak it into existence. I also do this thing where if I wake up in the morning and I’m not feeling the best, I list everything that I’m thankful for. That definitely puts me in a better mood.”
READ MORE: If you’re a Christian and you’re watching Love Island… there are some things you need to know
Maya famously dated rapper and fellow Christian Stormzy, the Grammy winner, speaks regularly about his love for Jesus
Maya famously dated rapper and fellow Christian, Stormzy. The Grammy winner, speaks regularly about his love for Jesus, also talking about the church he attends and how he hosts a weekly Bible study. When he headlined Glastonbury in 2019, Stormzy ended his performance and gave his praise to God. After four years the pair parted ways, stating that they are still close friends but have different priorities, regarding the future. It’s unclear whether their religious values had an impact on their separation.
Maya is now dating Portuguese footballer Ruben Dias and in May, the couple made their relationship ‘Instagram official.’ Speculation arose, after they’d been seen together on multiple occasions. Taking to social media, Dias declared his religious beliefs, saying: “I believe in God and I believe he helps me every day, to achieve my goals.” Could this be a sign that Jama is taking biblical teachings seriously, and therefore choosing men who are ‘equally yoked?’
READ MORE: Love Island has many faults but it has managed to put sustainable fashion on the map, and that’s got to be a good thing
Before her role on Love Island, Maya Jama’s career was already established, but the dating show has undeniably propelled her, to even greater stardom and cemented her as a household name in Britain. If she were to declare herself a ‘strict Christian,’ there is no doubt, that Maya could be incredibly influential to in the secular world.
1 Reader's comment