Leave or Return? Zina Malas on Migration, Identity & Coming Back to Lebanon

In this powerful episode of The Lebanese Physicians Podcast, we sit down with entrepreneur and consultant Zina Malas, Founder & CEO of Tawlé Consultancy, to discuss migration, identity, ambition, and the difficult choices many Lebanese professionals face. ⚠️ Important context: This conversation was recorded two weeks before the war began in Lebanon, which gives the discussion an even deeper meaning today. As we listen back, many of the themes belonging, uncertainty, resilience, and the idea of “home” feel even more powerful and relevant. Zina shares her journey of leaving Lebanon for Canada during one of the country’s most difficult periods, building a life abroad, and then making the bold and controversial decision to return to Lebanon despite many people telling her she was making a mistake. In this episode, we explore: • The emotional realities of migration beyond logistics • The myths vs. truths about building a life abroad • How identity evolves when living outside your home country • Why returning home can sometimes be the bravest decision • The lessons she learned abroad that shaped her consulting philosophy After returning to Lebanon, Zina founded Tawlé Consultancy, where she helps businesses rethink strategy, growth, and leadership in complex environments. We also discuss questions that resonate with many in the Lebanese diaspora today: Who should leave—and who should stay? What do people misunderstand about success abroad? Is belonging a place or a mindset? And if Lebanon were stable tomorrow, would people return? This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about risk, resilience, and redefining success in uncertain times. 🎙️ The Lebanese Physicians Podcast #LebanesePhysiciansPodcast #ZinaMalas #LebanonDiaspora #MigrationStories #Lebanon #Entrepreneurship #LebaneseEntrepreneurs #IdentityAndBelonging #Leadership #Consulting #GlobalLebanese #CareerJourney #PodcastInterview #Resilience #Subscribe #subscribenow On YouTube: ‪@thelebanesephysicianspodcast‬ ‪@tawleconsultancy‬ and on all podcast apps. Website: https://thelebanesephysicianspodcast.podbean.com/