Imshi Imshi

Today, we are honored to have Salem Barahmeh, a dynamic figure whose life journey spans from the heart of Palestine to the global stage. Growing up between Jerusalem and Jericho during the first and second Intifadas, Salem's early life was marked by the harsh realities of apartheid and violence. Despite these challenges, Salem pursued higher education in Wisconsin and London, eventually becoming a key player in Palestinian diplomacy and politics. Now, as the founder of Uncivilized, a platform dedicated to reshaping global narratives about Palestine and the wider Arab world. Salem is using storytelling to shift narratives and bring global issues to the forefront. Join us as we explore Salem Barahmeh’s journey of resilience, his vision for the future, and how he’s using his voice to empower and educate through Uncivilized. Check out Uncivilized here: https://www.patreon.com/uncivilizedmedia

Today, we are honored to have Ghassan Shamieh with us, a dedicated immigration lawyer and advocate for Palestinian rights based in San Francisco. Born to Palestinian parents who fled their homeland during the 1967 war, Ghassan was raised in the Bay Area, where he faced the challenges of navigating his identity in post-9/11 America. From standing up to school administrators who sought to silence his pro-Palestinian stance to becoming a prominent voice for Palestinian rights, Ghassan's path has been anything but easy. Now, as an immigration lawyer, he uses his platform to fight for Palestinian an Arab families, ensuring they have the legal representation they need. Join us as Ghassan shares his story of overcoming identity struggles, his relentless advocacy for justice, and his mission to amplify the voices of the Palestinian people. More on Ghassan here: https://www.ghassanforcitycouncil.com/

Today, we are joined by Amanda Jawad, whose journey from a high-flying legal career to becoming a meditation teacher is both inspiring and eye-opening. Amanda's path took her from the vibrant Arab community in Dearborn, Michigan, to the halls of Harvard Law School, and then to the intense world of corporate law in New York City. Despite these accomplishments, Amanda faced profound personal challenges, including a deep depression and the pressures of a high-stress job. In a pivotal shift, Amanda embraced spirituality and meditation, ultimately finding her calling in helping Arab women release guilt and shame. Join us as Amanda shares her incredible journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of embracing one's true path. More on Amanda here: https://msha.ke/amandajawad

Today, we have a unique perspective from the Middle East that resembles the same pain points we face in the diaspore. Talia Lahoud, is a 21-year-old musical talent from Batroun, Lebanon. Talia’s journey is a testament to perseverance amid adversity. Starting on YouTube at 11, she faced harsh criticism but continued to pursue her passion for music. Despite familial expectations to follow a traditional career path, Talia chose music, gaining recognition by 17. Her path was filled with challenges, including the loss of her father and economic hardships, making her feel far from achieving her dreams. However, her persistence paid off when she was signed by Nvak Collective in LA, finally turning her luck around. Talia's story is one of overcoming repeated setbacks and finding hope in the support of her followers and the opportunities that finally came her way. Join us as Talia shares her inspiring journey of resilience, passion, and breakthrough.

Today, we have the honor of introducing Jenan Matari, a dedicated advocate and storyteller whose journey encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of embracing one's identity. Born into a first-generation Arab American household, Jenan's family history is deeply rooted in the Palestinian experience. Her grandparents' stories of displacement during the 1948 Nakba and their subsequent migrations to Brazil, Jordan, and eventually the United States, set the backdrop for her life's narrative. Despite growing up in a predominantly white, Jewish town in New Jersey, Jenan struggled with her Palestinian identity, often feeling the pressure to assimilate. It wasn't until her early twenties that she began to reconnect with her roots, leading her to become a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights and media literacy. Join us as Jenan shares her powerful journey of self-discovery, the importance of reclaiming her identity, and her mission to positively impact future generations.

Today, we share the incredible journey of Hanin Al Qoreishy, whose life story unfolds like a tapestry of courage and determination. Born into a politically and religiously influential family in Iraq, Baghdad, Hanin's early years were shattered by conflict and personal tragedy, including a horrifying kidnapping at age 9. Awakening from a traumatic coma in a new country, with no memory of her past, Hanin faced unimaginable challenges from a very young age. Today she stands as a recognized leader and proud owner at Legacy Insurance Advisors in Houston, Texas. Hanin's relentless spirit has not only propelled her to success in the business world but also inspired her to give back through her non-profit organization, Uplifted Hearts, which is dedicated to supporting child refugees and orphans. Join us as Hanin shares how she turned her trials into opportunities of triumphs, fostering connections, and building community. https://legacyinsuranceadv.com/ https://upliftedhearts.org/

Today, we have the honor of speaking with Suhad Khatib, an artist, filmmaker, and designer, and the daughter of Palestinian massacre survivors. Born in Oman, raised in Jordan, and having lived in the US for over 14 years, Suhad has numerously navigated the complexities of identity and belonging. Her work, described as "an intentional study on healing and identity," has been showcased in cities worldwide, including Montreal, New York, and Amman. Through social justice campaigns like #Ferguson2Palestine and #ShowMe15, Suhad's art and philosophy aim to reverse the harm of propaganda. From facing personal and professional upheavals to finding solace and strength in her art, Suhad's story is one of resilience and transformation. Join us as we delve into her experiences of overcoming adversity, reclaiming her heritage, and using her creative talents to inspire and heal. More on Suhad here: https://suhadkhatib.com/

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Fatmah Muhammad, the proud owner of Knafeh Queens, whose journey from Kansas City to Southern California is as rich and layered as her delicious knafeh. Raised in an all-white community, Fatmah faced prejudice and suspicion, especially after 9/11, when her family home was unjustly searched by police. Despite these challenges, Fatmah's love for her Palestinian culture and her father's entrepreneurial spirit shone through. Learning to make knafeh at a young age, Fatmah found joy and unity in sharing her culinary talents with others. After the rise of anti-Muslim rhetoric in 2016, Fatmah and her daughter officially launched Knafeh Queens, sharing her authentic narrative and hospitality through her beloved dessert. Join us as Fatmah Muhammad shares her inspiring story of resilience, cultural pride, and the power of how hospitality brings unites us all. Check out Knafeh Queens here: https://www.knafehqueens.com/

Today, we share the journey of Gheed El Bizri, who transitions from the historic streets of Lebanon to the esteemed halls of Stanford. Gheed's journey is a testament to the power of hope, faith, and the written word, showcasing the essence of overcoming adversity. Facing culture shock, isolation, and the daunting task of proving herself in an unfamiliar world, Gheed's narrative is a powerful testament to finding strength in one’s roots and voice. Join us as Gheed reveals how writing became her sanctuary, allowing her to bridge two worlds and emerge empowered, with her identity and dreams intact. You can check out Gheed's writing here: https://stanforddaily.com/author/gheed/

Today, we are joined by Ahmed Hashem, a San Francisco-based advocate whose journey from Iraq to the heart of the Tenderloin district embodies resilience and the relentless pursuit of justice. Ahmed’s early life was marked by the harrowing experiences of war and his father’s imprisonment. Despite facing poverty and personal loss, Ahmed channeled his experiences into advocacy, focusing on refugee resettlement, social justice, and community work. He now combines his passion for tech recruiting with his love for music, using his platform to uplift marginalized voices. Join us as Ahmed shares his journey of resilience, community advocacy, and the transformative power of holding onto one's roots while forging a new path. More on Ahmed here: https://linktr.ee/DJ.Ahmed.SF

Today, we have the pleasure of introducing Reem Assil, a dynamic force that sits at the intersection of her three passions: food, community, and social justice. Based in Oakland, Reem's journey is a compelling narrative of resilience, identity, and the transformative power through food and hospitality. Born into a Palestinian-Syrian household, Reem's journey from a typical suburban Arab immigrant life to a leading figure in the culinary world is truly inspiring. Despite facing racism, personal challenges, and public controversies, Reem found solace and purpose in food, creating her acclaimed bakery "Reem's". She now has an award-winning cookbook, "Arabiaya," and her relentless pursuit of justice and identity showcase her unyielding spirit. Join us as we explore Reem Assil's story of resilience, community, and the transformative power of Arab hospitality. More about Reem here: https://www.reem-assil.com/about

Joining us today is Aminah Musa, an entrepreneurial spirit deeply rooted in her vibrant Palestinian heritage. Aminah's journey is a testament to innovation and cultural pride, intertwined with her family's unique background. Born in Jerusalem during a wedding—a beginning as extraordinary as her life's work—Aminah grew up in Chicago and Ohio, absorbing the diverse influences of her Spanish-Palestinian mother and a Puerto Rican-raised Palestinian father. From brainstorming sessions under the stars to launching Pali Roots—a brand that champions Palestinian culture—Aminah, alongside her brother, have navigated the complex world of entrepreneurship without a traditional roadmap. Their story isn't just about creating a brand; it's about igniting a global conversation through fashion, celebrating Palestinian identity far beyond the narrow confines of conflict. More on Pali Roots here: https://www.paliroots.com/

Today’s tale is one of transformation, resilience, and social impact. We’re joined by Maen Mahfoud whose remarkable path took him from the heart of Syria to the forefront of social entrepreneurship in Silicon Valley. From medical student to founder of Replate, a revolutionary platform turning surplus food into a force for good. Witness how Maen's roots in community service and a pivotal moment of realization ignited a mission to fight food insecurity and environmental waste. This is a story of defying expectations, embracing true callings, and making a measurable difference in the world. Stay tuned for a journey of hope, innovation, and the power of living by one's values. More on Replate here: https://www.re-plate.org/

Today, we journey with Teni Panosian, whose voyage from Tehran amid turmoil to the entrepreneurial triumph in the beauty world, embodies the essence of resilience and self-discovery. Born into an Armenian Christian family, Teni's narrative unfolds across continents, facing a major identity crises in an affluent American setting. As she navigates through disconnection to find her voice, Teni transforms challenges into channels for advocacy and innovation, leading her to pioneer 'Monday Born,' a testament to her heritage and dreams. Join us for an inspiring tale of hope, identity, and the power of staying true to oneself. Check out Monday Born here: https://beaubble.com/brand/monday-born

Today we are spotlighting Nasser Al-Rayess, a beacon of laughter and authenticity. Born in the vibrant heart of the Bay Area to a Syrian family, Nasser grew up straddling the worlds of rigorous academic expectations and his innate passion for comedy. From his early days mastering ceremonies in high school to confronting the immense pressures of family and societal norms, Nasser's journey is a testament to the power of following one's true calling. As we delve into his story, discover how Nasser navigated challenges, defied expectations, and embraced his identity to become a voice for humor and a heart in the entertainment industry. Join us for a narrative filled with laughter, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passion. More on Nasser here: https://linktr.ee/nawsir

Today, we're joined by Suhel Nafar, a trailblazer whose journey from the stages of Palestine to the executive offices of Empire in the U.S. embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation. Born into the charged atmosphere of Lyd, where survival was a daily challenge, Suhel transformed the adversity of his youth into a powerful artistic expression. Suhel taught himself English by listening to Hip-hop artists such as Dead Prez, 2Pac, and The Notorious B.I.G. Which later led him to becoming a founding member of DAM, the first Arab rap group. He not only pioneered a genre but also used music as a lens to explore and confront the complexities of Palestinian identity under occupation. Now in the U.S., Suhel continues to break barriers, from orchestrating Spotify’s expansion into the Arab world to amplifying voices through Empire’s Western Asia and North Africa division. Join us as Suhel shares his remarkable journey of cultural bridge-building, his evolution from musician to music executive, and how he turns challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. You can check out Empire here: https://www.instagram.com/empire.wana/

Today, we're venturing into the life of Lauren Abedini, a remarkable individual who navigated the complexities of growing up between two contrasting worlds. From the structured traditions of a Persian household to the liberating vibes of a white, hippy upbringing, Lauren's journey is a profound exploration of self-discovery. Facing the daunting challenges of identity crisis and coming to terms with her sexuality, Lauren's story is a powerful testament to the courage it takes to truly find oneself. Amidst it all, music and community became her sanctuary, transforming her path into one of inspiration and influence as a DJ, where she not only found her voice but also a sense of belonging. Join us as we dive deep into Lauren’s journey of resilience, self-acceptance, and the healing power of community. More on Lauren here: https://www.iamkittens.com/

Today’s tale will unravel the compelling journey of Maytha Alhassen, a Syrian-Lebanese-Saudi-Egyptian-Bedouin-Arab American historian, journalist, artist and organizer whose life bridges the chasms between cultures, communities, and self-discovery. Growing up at the crossroads of her rich Arab heritage and the stark realities of white supremacy in Southern California, Maytha faced an identity crisis that propelled her onto a path of political awakening and collective liberation. Amidst the backdrop of post-9/11 America, she navigated through layers of societal challenges to emerge as a beacon of hope and healing. Join us as Maytha shares her transformative story from the depths of doubt to redefining liberation, embracing her roots, and harnessing the power of surrender and faith to forge a future beyond imagination. Let’s dive into a tale of resilience, identity, and the journey towards embodying one's true calling. You can learn more about Maytha here: https://maythaalhassen.com/about

Today, we delve into the world of Melanie Elturk, a beacon of innovation and strength in the face of adversity. From a biracial upbringing caught between the worlds of Islam and Christianity, to the highs of fashion entrepreneurship and the lows of personal and professional trials, Melanie's journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and faith. As the founder of Haute Hijab, she revolutionized the way Muslim women express themselves, merging fashion with faith at a time when the concept seemed distant. Yet, amidst soaring success, Melanie faced her deepest challenges: the loss of her brother, a marriage pushed to its limits, and a business threatened by unforeseen global upheaval. Join us as we explore Melanie's path from shattering to rebuilding—a journey of ego death, rebirth, and the relentless pursuit of bringing the Hijab into mainstream acceptance. Check out Haute Hijab here: https://www.hautehijab.com/

Today, we're sharing the compelling story of Maya Abdallah, a talent who rose to fame on social media, only to face the harsh realities of political activism colliding with her dreams. Born in Atlanta with Lebanese and Palestinian roots, Maya moved to LA to chase the glittering promise of an acting career. But when standing up for her homeland during a crisis, it led to her losing representation overnight, putting Maya at a crossroad. From the depths of isolation and cancellation, she rediscovered herself, turning to her Arab community for support. Join us as Maya takes us on her journey of rebuilding, from landing a groundbreaking role with a Muslim Production Agency to launching her own clothing brand and standing tall at protests. This is a story of faith, identity, and unyielding courage. Check out Ayooni by Maya here: https://ayoonibymaya.com/