How prison transformed a radical Islamist

Maajid Nawaz is a self-described former Islamic extremist. However, a five-year spell in an Egyptian prison gave him time to reflect.

Mr Nawaz told Tom Elliott about his childhood as part of radical Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir, and subsequent attempts to counter extremism.

‘It was a five-year process through prison. I had the opportunity to study, read, and debate,’ Mr Nawaz said.

‘I am responsible for my past actions, and that’s why I committed myself to challenging extremism.

‘Ultimately, I like to think I grew up.’

Click play to hear the compelling interview

Maajid Nawaz is speaking on Friday at Deakin Edge, Federation Square.