Tea With GenZ

In this episode of Tea With Gen Z, we dive into what it really means to nourish the soul in a world that feels fast, loud, and overwhelming.Joined by Mr. Shahid Bux, we explore the connection between mental health and spirituality, the challenges Gen Z faces today, and why inner peace can feel so hard to access. From dealing with constant distractions to learning how to sit with stillness, this conversation is all about slowing down, reflecting, and reconnecting with yourself.Tune in for a thoughtful, honest discussion on finding balance, meaning, and calm in everyday life.

Ramadan can feel very different depending on where — and with whom — you’re celebrating. 🌙 In this episode, we’re joined by Ameena Al-Attas to talk about finding your own community and creating a home away from home during Ramadan. We share Ramadan and Eid traditions, and reflect on how the experience changes when you’re celebrating with family versus the community you’ve built at AUS. From familiar rituals to new shared moments, we explore the different kinds of joy that come with both.

في هذه الحلقة من Tea with Gen Z نستضيف عبدالرحمن توفيق، عازف عود وشاعر وطالب سنة أولى في الجامعة الأمريكية في الشارقة. نتحدّث عن تجربته مع Arabic Music Ensemble، حصوله على أعلى علامة في العالم في Pearson Edexcel International AS Arabic، ورؤيته للهوية الثقافية بين العود، الشعر، والجيل الجديد. حلقة عن الشغف، التميّز، وكيف يحافظ الإنسان على هويته بروح معاصرة — خاصة مع بداية الحياة الجامعية واقتراب رمضان.In this episode of Tea with Gen Z, we sit down with Abdulrahman Tawfiq — lute player, poet, and freshman at the American University of Sharjah. We talk about performing with the Arabic Music Ensemble, achieving the highest mark worldwide in Pearson Edexcel International AS Arabic, and navigating passion, culture, and identity as a Gen Z student. An episode about excellence, creativity, and staying true to who you are — especially during your first year of university and with Ramadan around the corner.

In this Ramadan special of Tea with GenZ, host Mahra Alshamsi sits down with Mohammed Alghazali, the Student Council’s Emirati Representative, a content creator, and an aspiring triathlete, to talk about discipline, productivity, and work-life balance during the holy month. From fasting while training to managing academics and leadership responsibilities, Mohammed shares how he stays consistent, grounded, and motivated. This episode explores building strong habits, protecting your energy, and showing up with purpose, even when your schedule is full.

In this episode, we spotlight MedHack, an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between medicine and innovation. AUS student Jurie joins us to discuss a critical challenge within the vast field of healthcare: groundbreaking ideas often remain untapped due to the disconnect between medical insight and technological development. To address this, MedHack is bringing one of its largest initiatives yet to AUS on March 28, MedEngineers. This hackathon-style competition unites students from medicine and engineering to collaborate, design functional prototypes, and pitch their solutions to potential investors. By fostering interdisciplinary teamwork, MedEngineers aims to turn innovative ideas into impactful healthcare solutions.

When did we start getting older, and who decided there was a deadline for life milestones? In this episode, we reflect on age, mindset, and the pressure society places on young adults to have everything figured out in their twenties. From expectations around marriage and children to reflections on personal growth, the conversation explores how maturity and mindsets do not have strict timelines, but evolve differently for each person and across generations. A thoughtful discussion on what it really means to grow, discussing the factors that influence it, such as self-awareness, frontal lobe development, and generational differences.

In this episode, we sit down with the owners of Soul Cafe—an AUS student, Ahmad Yaqoob, and alumni, Mohammed Yaqoob, duo —to uncover the journey behind one of campus’s most soulful spots. From the first spark of an idea to the final product you know and love today, we dive into the highs, hurdles, and heart that shaped the café. We also unpack the deeper meaning behind the name Soul Cafe and how identity, culture, and community are brewed into everything they do.

This episode digs into men’s mental health with the Mental Health Association (MHA) representative, Hamza, and counsellor Toubia Farah. We unpack toxic masculinity, society’s expectations, and why men are often silenced when expressing their struggles. A real conversation about stigma, vulnerability, and giving men the space to feel and heal.

In this episode of Tea With Gen Z, we sit down with Dr. Aqeel Taher, a long-serving AUS faculty member. We discuss the strengths and challenges of Gen Z engineering students, touching on ethics, learning styles, and the evolving academic landscape. The conversation concludes with Dr. Aqeel’s perspective on AI, its ethical use, and his advice for the next generation of engineers.

In this episode of Tea with Gen Z, new host Tira and creative director Oussama Jamal examine the rising cycle of overconsumption shaping Gen Z. They explore the rapid spread of microtrends, the growing influence of de-influencing, and the impact of fast fashion—all accelerated during the COVID-19 era. Through focused questions and clear insights, the conversation uncovers how trends move faster than ever and why this pace affects identity, sustainability, and personal choice. The episode concludes with a call for more mindful, intentional consumption.

This episode dives into the idea of balance; the constant act of managing all the moving parts of our lives. Whether it’s school, work, friendships, or personal growth, finding balance helps us make thoughtful choices and stay grounded in the chaos. We talk about how to manage responsibilities, explore new interests, and remind ourselves that it’s never too late to take part in more activities or try something new!

In this episode, we talk with Mohammad Abubakerr about whether we’re losing our Arabic language, and what that really means. From the generational gap between students and parents to AUS’s English-dominant culture, we explore how switching between Arabic and English shapes our identity, opportunities, and sense of belonging. We also ask: can Arab youth thrive globally without losing touch with their roots, and what can universities, families, and media do to keep Arabic alive in a modern world?

Join us as Kunal from the Indian Cultural Club and Qais from the Palestinian Cultural Club sit down to share what it’s really like being presidents of two of the biggest clubs on campus. From leading large teams to navigating challenges, they talk about their journeys to becoming presidents, their leadership styles, how they plan to make an impact at Club Fair, and what drives them to represent their communities.

Join us for a candid conversation with AUS Student Council President Qusai Altah and Vice President Anas Elsayed as they share their journey of leadership, the challenges they’ve faced, the people who supported them, and the unforgettable experiences that come with representing students.

In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker and scholar Dr. Bentley Brown to explore the concept of disidentification, what it means to be from one place but feel deeply connected to another. From his multicultural childhood to his academic and professional journey, Dr. Brown shares personal stories that illuminate the fluid nature of identity, belonging, and cultural resonance. Whether you're navigating your own cross-cultural experience or simply curious about the complexities of global identity, this conversation offers rich insight and reflection.

How many internships are enough to be competitive in the job market? In this episode of TeaWithGenZ, we explore the highs and lows of the internship race with our guest, who shares their experience securing multiple internships, balancing them with academics and personal life, and discovering what companies truly value in an intern. Packed with insights and lessons learned, this discussion is perfect for those navigating the internship maze and aiming to stand out in the crowd!

In this episode of TeaWithGenZ, we’re joined by Maryam Khan, a brilliant psychology major from the American University of Sharjah, to dive deep into the rollercoaster that is university life. Together, we unpack the psychology behind university stress and explore pressing questions like:✨ Why do friendships evolve during university? 📚 How do students juggle academic pressure, deadlines, and social life? ⏰ Is waking up at 5 AM and hustling every day really the key to success? ⚖ How can we find a balance between ambition and burnout? 💡 What are the most underrated mental health strategies for students?

In this episode, fashion designer Gabriela Rose of Designers and Us (D&U) shares her journey into the fashion industry and how D&U is shaping the UAE’s $3 billion fashion scene. Collaborating with over 50 international and local designers, D&U is empowering the region’s fashion landscape, blending luxury and cultural influences. Gabriela discusses the connection between fashion and women’s empowerment, offering advice for young women on resilience and inspiration. Tune in for insights into her creative process, experiences working with clients and models, and tips for breaking into the competitive world of fashion.

In this episode of Tea with Gen Z, we sit down with the incredible Ms. Maha Jibril, a familiar face at AUS who has been a cornerstone of the university community for over 16 years. From her unexpected journey into Information Systems to her insights on student life, motherhood, and the Student Council, Ms. Maha shares her story and wisdom in a way that will inspire and surprise you. Join us as we uncover the story behind one of AUS's most beloved figures.

Tune in as we sit down with AUS Chancellor Dr. Tod Laursen to explore his unique journey in global education leadership and his ambitious vision for the future of AUS. From pivotal career moments to his goals for the university, this episode offers students and listeners a glimpse into the mind of a forward-thinking leader.

In this episode of Don’t Think Twice, we dive deep into the minds of students to explore the overthinking spirals that keep them awake at night. From academic pressures to personal relationships, we ask: what thoughts do they just can’t seem to shake? Tune in to hear real stories, relatable struggles, and how these students cope with the constant whirlwind of overthinking.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Osama Damati, co-founder of Together We Empower (+twe) and consultant at IBM. Discover how an idea sparked in a university dorm evolved into a thriving business dedicated to empowering youth. Osama shares insights on overcoming challenges, fostering innovation, and driving social impact in today’s fast-paced world. Tune in to learn about his journey, the power of collaboration, and how the next generation can transform their ideas into reality!

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Ali Khawaja, a dedicated educator and mental health campaigner, to explore the complexities of mental health in the modern world. Ali shares his journey from academia to mental health advocacy, highlighting the challenges and stigmas associated with mental wellness. As the co-founder of Mental Health AE, Ali delves into the importance of open dialogue, community support, and the impact of technology on mental health. Whether you're seeking advice, inspiration, or simply a better understanding of mental well-being, this episode offers a compassionate and informative perspective on maintaining mental health in today's fast-paced environment.

Meet Sara Afana! A successful business owner, the Public Relations Coordinator for the Palestinian Cultural Club, and Deputy Director of Media at AUSMUN. We got into her journey, how she’s handled so much responsibility, and shared our senior regrets—things we wish we could’ve done differently. Don’t miss out on this one!

In this episode of "Tea with Gen Z," I'm sitting down with Nelly, a powerhouse from the AUS swimming team who just snagged a bronze medal in Athens, Greece! 🌍🏅 Nelly's not just making waves in the pool—she's also a sophomore electrical engineering student who's got the whole balance thing figured out. We'll be chatting about her journey into swimming, what it’s like to compete on an international stage, and how she juggles it all. Whether you're into sports, student life, or just love a good success story, you won't want to miss this one. Tune in for some serious inspo and a whole lot of fun!

🌐🍵 Dive into an exciting journey into the world of female leadership with Dr. Narjess Boubakri, the pioneering first female dean of SBA, in the latest episode of Tea with GenZ Season 6! 🔍 Exploring Dr. Narjess’s Journey: Embark on a captivating exploration of Dr. Narjess Boubakri's extraordinary path, from her notable achievements to her inspiring rise to leadership. 🚀👩‍💼 🎤 Mentorship and Support for Leaders: Immerse yourself in enlightening insights as we delve into the critical role of mentorship and support systems in nurturing effective leaders, drawing from Dr. Narjess’s own experiences and wisdom. 🌱🤝 ⚔️ Balancing Acts: Navigating the Leadership Terrain: Discover strategies for maintaining balance in leadership amidst challenges and opportunities. ⚖️💼 📜 Lessons from Dr. Narjess’s Leadership: Gain wisdom from Dr. Narjess’s leadership journey, uncovering valuable lessons that can inspire and empower leaders in their careers. 📚💡 🌟 Essential Advice for Aspiring Leaders: Whether you're starting your leadership journey or seeking to enhance your skills, Dr. Narjess provides essential guidance for navigating the complexities of leadership with confidence. 🌟🌈 ☕🤝 Don't miss out on this engaging exploration into the heart of leadership excellence and the diverse spectrum of leadership styles! 🌟🎉

🌐🌱 Dive into the profound impact of AUS Community Services with Ahmed Nour, a dedicated and passionate volunteer, in the latest episode of Tea with GenZ Season 6! 🔍 Unraveling the Impact of AUS Community Services: Embark on a journey through recent events hosted by AUS Community Services, exploring their significance and the ripple effect they create within the community. 🎤 Special Guest: Ahmed Nour Immerse yourself in Ahmed's inspiring journey and profound experiences as a devoted volunteer with AUS Community Services. Gain insights into the transformative power of service and its lasting effects. ⚔️ Advocacy and Action: A Dialogue: Engage in thought-provoking discussions as Ahmed shares perspectives on the importance of community service and its role in shaping a better tomorrow. Join the discourse on how collective action can drive positive change. 📜 The Future of Community Services at AUS: Peer into the horizon and envision the future of community services at AUS. Explore upcoming initiatives, innovative approaches, and the evolving landscape of service-oriented endeavors within the university. 🌟 Why Join AUS Community Services: Discover compelling reasons why individuals should join AUS Community Services, from fostering meaningful connections to making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Unlock the rewards of service and personal growth. ☕🤝 Don't miss out on this enriching conversation delving into the heart of community engagement and the profound impact it fosters.

Join us in Episode 3 of TWGZ as we embark on answering the silliest questions ever! 🚀🔍 In this episode, we delve into the age-old debate: Is an Oreo truly a sandwich? 🍪 We then tackle the perplexing question of whether water can be considered wet💧 Next, we confront the debate of pineapple on pizza 🍍🍕 and explore its place in the culinary world. But the fun doesn't stop there! We also ponder the necessity of classes after 5 pm 🕔 and How many holes does a straw really have? 🤔 Join our hosts as we navigate and uncover the unexpected answers! 🎉✨

🌐🍵 Unlock the secrets of MUNs & AUSMUN history with Junaid and Jawwad in the latest episode of Tea with GenZ Season 6! 🔍 What are MUNs & AUSMUN History: Embark on a fascinating journey as we unravel the origins and evolution of Model United Nations, exploring the rich history of AUSMUN. 🎤 MUN Guests Experiences: Immerse yourself in captivating stories as our special MUN guests share their unique experiences, offering insights and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of Model UN. ⚔️ Jawwad Vs Junaid, An Epic Battle: Brace yourself for an epic battle of intellect and wit as Jawwad faces off against Junaid. Who will emerge victorious in this showdown of MUN prowess? 📜 Lessons from the World of MUNs: Sip on the wisdom gained from years of navigating the intricate world of Model United Nations. Discover the valuable lessons that can elevate your MUN experience. 🌟 Essential Advice for MUN Freshers: New to the MUN scene? Junaid and Jawwad have got you covered with essential tips and advice to help freshmen navigate the challenging yet rewarding landscape of Model UN. ☕🤝Don't miss out on this journey into the heart of diplomatic discourse.

🔥 Get ready to revolutionize your life with Season 6 of "Tea with Gen Z"! 🌟 We're kicking things off with a bang as we spill the tea on habit-building and resolutions! From decoding the psychology of habits to the golden rule that makes it all easy – this episode is your shortcut to an upgraded YOU! 💪✨ 🚀 Embark on Your Reading Journey: Join us as we spill the deets on how our personal reading journeys paved the way for habit exploration! 🌈 Consistency is Key: Discover the mind-blowing secrets behind making habits stick like glue. Consistency is your new superpower! 💥 🧠 Unlock Habit Psychology: We're pulling back the curtain on the psychology of habits. Unleash the hidden forces that shape your daily routines! 🤝 Habit Hack: Power of Companionship: Find out how having a habit buddy can transform your goals! It's time to team up for success! 👯‍♂️ ✨ The Golden Rule: Make It Easy: Uncover the ultimate hack to effortless habit-building. Making positive changes has never been this simple! Ready to level up your life? 🚀 Don't miss out – grab your tea, hit play, and let's make this season your best one yet! ☕🎙️

Join Haidy and Iryn as they unlock the secrets to acing your final exams! Dive deep into the world of exam preparation, where they break down everything you need to know to conquer those crucial tests. In this episode, we explore the art of effective exam prep, tailored for students at any stage of their academic journey. Discover their personal experiences and tried-and-tested strategies for optimizing study sessions and staying motivated through the toughest of subjects. Uncover the invaluable skills gained through diligent exam prep, from time management to honing critical thinking abilities. Learn how to tackle exam stress head-on with mindfulness practices and proven stress-busting techniques, ensuring a calmer, focused mindset during crunch time.

Join the engaging episode of "Tea with Gen Z" as host Oussama Jamal welcomes the remarkable Halla Da'as from Palestine. With a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics, Halla's academic achievements shine, including her award-winning research and dedication as a Teaching Assistant at AUS. Her impactful role as General Operations Manager for Locate Victims Beirut, aiding families after Lebanon's port incident, reflects her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes. Halla's story, marked by leadership in coordinating the first Model United Nations at her high school, showcases resilience and a profound dedication to creating positive change, making her an inspiring figure for listeners seeking to make a difference.

In this episode of Tea with Gen Z, we're spilling the tea on everything you need to know about internships. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or simply curious about intern life, this is tail...

In this episode of Tea With Gen Z, Nidhi, Iryn and Bhavika delve into the secrets of enjoying college courses. They share personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the challenges and stay motivated during midterm season. The discussion touches on topics such as choosing majors, the effectiveness of study groups, dealing with course resistance, and overcoming imposter syndrome. The hosts emphasize the importance of seeking support from peers, professors, and learning centers to enhance the college experience.

On this episode of Tea w/ Gen Z, join hosts Amaan and Nidhi as they explore the challenges of navigating academic pressure, emotional wellness, and current events. They touch on the emotional weight of a demanding university schedule, and the broader implications of global events, and offer insights on coping mechanisms. Discover how to regulate exposure to overwhelming news, engage in meaningful advocacy, and contribute to and lean on our community. In a world where global events touch our personal lives and every deadline feels like a ticking clock, how do we find understanding and balance? Tune in for a reflective conversation as we navigate a challenging semester.

Is GPA just a number? offers insights into GPA, determining success, extracurriculars, and internships. Join us for a deep dive into the complex realm of GPA and how it impacts your educational journey and early career. Discover the key role it plays in shaping your academic and professional profile. Plus, we'll explore the significance of extracurricular activities and internships in building a well-rounded foundation. Whether you're a first-year student navigating the GPA landscape or preparing to enter the workforce, this episode provides relatable stories and practical advice to help you decode the world of academic achievement. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

This episode shows us that the power of networking should not be undervalued; it is the key to your personal and professional growth, and AUS is definitely the best place to start experimenting with just a few networking techniques. Join us for an engaging conversation as we discuss ways to get involved on campus, maintain relationships with professors, Gen Z's social media presence, and more! Don't miss out on this episode's relatable stories and practical advice.

"The College Experience" episode offers insights into homesickness, extracurriculars, time management, and study techniques, providing valuable guidance for both current and prospective college students. Don't miss out on this episode's relatable stories and practical advice.

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the controversial topic of underrated vs overrated, where we shared our personal opinions on a variety of subjects, including popular relevant topics. We discuss the criteria for determining whether something is overrated or underrated, and explore the reasons behind our ratings. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on topics that are often debated, as we aim to settle the score on what's truly overrated or underrated in today's society.

Hey Gen Z! Are you tired of hearing about the "dream job" that everyone talks about? Is it really possible to have a job that's both fulfilling and financially stable? That's exactly what we explored in our latest podcast episode, "The Dream Job: Reality or Myth?" We talked about how our generation was raised with the idea that we should chase our dreams and find a job that we're passionate about, but is that always feasible? We also discussed how the job market has changed over the years and what that means for our career aspirations. So, if you're curious about whether the dream job is a real possibility or just a myth, tune in to our podcast episode and let's dive into this topic together!

In this episode, we talked about the importance of having a bucket list and how fulfilling it can be to turn those dreams into reality. Each person on the podcast shared their own personal bucket list items, ranging from going to the moon and traveling to specific countries, to learning a new language or skill. We also discussed how bucket lists can help us prioritize what we truly want to achieve in life, and how they can motivate us to step out of our comfort zones and try new things. It's important to remember that our bucket list items don't have to be grandiose or expensive - they can be as simple as trying a new food. We emphasized the importance of taking action towards our bucket list items, no matter how small the steps may be. Making progress towards our goals can give us a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Lastly, we encouraged listeners to create their own bucket lists and start working towards achieving their dreams. It's never too early or too late to start, and the journey towards checking off those items can be just as rewarding as the destination.

Everyone has a memory from university that they can never forget. Whether it's an unforgettable event, some memorable people, or a particular class they took, our university life is genuinely some of the best days for many. Join Dalal, James, Jawad, and Sameera as they discuss their college core memories. PS stay tuned for a special announcement at the end of the episode.

What do you do when your best friend has another best friend? Today, our hosts discuss tackling that feeling of (non-toxic) jealousy in friendships!

Burnout is not just for the industry professionals with a million startups curing cancer—it's felt by students too!

In today's episode, Dalal, Yara, and Jawad discuss generational differences and what they, as Gen Z'ers, don't understand about millennials.

Welcome to SEASON THREE OF TWGZ! Find out our team's red flags in a juicy episode featuring new hosts Sameera, Jawad and Yara! 🚩😳☕️ What are your red flags? 🚩

Always wanted your own startup but didn't know where to begin? In today's episode, Dalal and Pooja, joined by AUS' entrepreneurs, will give you the hottest tips on building your own successful entrepreneurship journey!

Have you ever found yourself wondering what kind of parent you would be? Join Dalal, James and Vini today as they speculate how Gen Z would be as parents, discuss what they'd change in their parenting styles and finally take a moment to appreciate their own families!

When was the last time you watched your favorite childhood movies or cartoons? Join the TeaWithGenZ hosts today as we take a walk down the memory lane, discussing the cartoons- from Tom and Jerry to Chota Bheem- that shaped our childhood.

Are you considering taking a study abroad semester in the future? Or perhaps you've already finalised your exchange plans and are set to go this Fall! Whatever the case, tune into this episode where TWGZ brings on past exchange students for the best advice and tips on how to make the most of your study abroad experience!