DNU – Purple Impression 2- Ethical and Artisan fashion from Pakistan
In the first part of this post, I spoke to Drakshan, one half of the sister partnership behind the ethical clothing brand, Purple Impression and I’m delighted to be able to now bring to you, the conversation I had with Afshan, Drakshan’s partner and sister. The way the two interviews …
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Purple Impression 1 – Ethical and Artisan fashion from Pakistan
This is my first two part post, because the story of each founder of this gem is worth telling alone in tribute to their cause, and to their incredible integrity and bravery. I will start with the story of Drakshan, because, as it happened I spoke to her first, although …
Continue ReadingRimal- A promise of a better world one book at a time
This post is about a gem of a publishing house called Rimal. I found it in one of my favorite events in the United Arab Emirates, the Sharjah International Book Fair. My sister and I have been going to it mostly together since the beginning of our idea to do …
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In Between Wars- Daily life in Gaza Exhibit
Gaza is a sore point in my heart as, in essence, it is an open air prison. It is one of the most densely populated areas on Earth and is cut off from any steady supply of the simplest needs. I saw 2 documentaries that brought into sharp focus its …
Continue ReadingHajji Noor Deen- A Master Calligrapher from China
The story of this gem is of a magnanimous soul whose presence and charisma lifts me up every time he comes to mind. May God Bless him with more of the spark that lights his spirit and brings light to our eyes and hearts. I was gifted with this discovery …
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Chance Encounter at the Phillips Collection- Klee’s Arab Song!
I’ve had an idea for a series of posts inspired by my gallery-run around Washington D.C. It came about as I finally went to see the Phillips Collection that is almost everyone’s favorite in D.C. and now I understand why!! It is hands down the best collection of Western art …
Continue ReadingMaiwand- A Zabiha Story in Santa Clara
So, this post is slightly off Bint Battuta’s beaten path, but I just had to share it with you as a whole new world has opened up for me and I am so excited to tell you all about it! This particular gem came about because, being here in California …
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Assala Nasri- A Syrian Nightingale
I wholeheartedly believe that one of God’s simple edicts is, that if your intention is to do good, then every once in while you will also receive abundant grace. This gem came into my path in just such a way. It felt like it was a reward for my good …
Continue ReadingLiza – Where The Art of Lebanese cuisine and culture unite
True to my Arab blood, food is a big deal to me. It’s a simple pleasure, an art form, and a profound way to express love. I rarely meet an Arab who doesn’t appreciate good food and when I do I am honestly perplexed. I feel the same way about …
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Islamic Musical Traditions’ Guardian Angel – Sami Yusuf
This is a gem that has been waiting patiently to be shared, and I think, now is the time to tell you of the extraordinary experience of nashid, spiritual lyrics, that unfolded at Sami Yusuf’s concert at Dubai Opera, in December 2017. It was an event that, honestly, I only …
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