Episode Three: Between Two Worlds

Hello, dear listeners! I hope you are doing well. I first need to apologize because I shared in the last episode that today’s episode would focus on the Moroccan mom, but unfortunately we were not able to record this conversation this week. I hope, however, to share it with you in the near future. Today, I am joined by a new, special guest, Ustadha Raja. Ustadha Raja is a Fulbright alumna and an Arab Literature, Language, and Culture Instructor at the Judy Genshaft Honors College at the University of South Florida. She is also the founder and director of Arabic Khatawwat (Steps), an Arabic language and culture program. A former Fulbright participant in the U.S., Ustadha Raja has experienced life in both Morocco and the United States and has spent the past 15 years navigating these two cultures. This episode is the first part of a two part conversation with Ustadha Raja. In this episode she shares her experience immigrating to the U.S. and what it means to maintain Moroccan roots while building a life abroad. We explore what it means to be Moroccan abroad, and whether you really have to choose between two worlds. The second part of the conversation will be coming next week, inchallah! If you are interested in studying Arabic language and culture virtually this fall with Ustadha Raja, Arabic Khatawaat is currently accepting applications for fall enrollment. Classes are available for Arabic learners of all levels. If you have been wanting to commit to Arabic, then I highly recommend you check out the program. To learn more and register, you can visit www.arabickhatawaat.com. To receive updates on the podcast and learn more about my Arabic journey, Darija, and Moroccan culture, you can follow me on Instagram @salamzinazwina. I would also be happy to hear your thoughts, comments, and answer any questions about today’s episode. Here are the some important words and expressions that you will hear in this episode: ما سخيتش- When you get used to something, and you don't want to let it go or move on برا البلاد- Outside the country/ homeland غادي ترجعيني -You are going to take me back منغمسة في الثقافة - Immersed in the culture موجة الأحاسيس - A wave of emotions تحاورت مع - I conversed with كنعشق بلادي- I love/adore my country تماسك اجتماعي قوي -Strong social cohesion سمعة مزيانة - Good reputation سفير/ة/سفراء ثقافيين- (Cultural Ambassador (masculine, feminine, and plural مواطن/ة/ين العالم- (Global citizen (masculine, feminine, plural خصني نتأقلم - I have to adjust بلا ما تعذبي رأسك -Don't bother البركة -Blessing روحانية-Spiritual موحشين - We miss لمة العائلة- Family gathering وتيرة الحياة -Pace of life استقرار اجتماعي -Social stability على سلامتك - Thank God for your safety ولد الحومة- Resident /local /son of the neighborhood ضروري يدير الواحد مجهود- It is necessary for someone to make an effort بحث اجتماعي - Networking /social research