Voices Beyond Borders

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 5 of Voices Beyond Borders. 🎙️ Rewriting the Rules of Tech with Larissa Abi Nakhle What does it take to build an AI company in the MENA region — and what does it take to do that as a woman? In this episode, we sit down with Larissa Abi Nakhle — Co-founder and Head of Partnerships at ZAKA — to explore her journey from engineering student and community leader to building one of the region’s leading AI education and ecosystem platforms. This isn’t just a conversation about technology. It’s about:• Building AI ecosystems in emerging markets• Creating opportunities for talent across the region• Navigating the realities of being a woman in tech• Leadership, resilience, and vision in fast-changing industries• Bridging the gap between education, talent, and industry 💡 Larissa shares insights from her journey — from leading IEEE initiatives to launching AI bootcamps, building partnerships, and shaping the future of work in the region. 🎧 Watch & Listen Everywhere📺 Full episode: YouTube🎧 Audio: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram and TikTok This season is proudly supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon, empowering conversations that drive youth innovation and impact. 🎥 Studio and Production: Paolo Khayyat & PodHub Studios 💬 Join the conversationWhat does the future of tech in our region look like to you?

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 4 of Voices Beyond Borders. 🎙️ Sweet Success and Social Impact with Martine Zaarour What does it take to turn global experience into local impact? In this episode, we sit down with Martine Zaarour — architect, designer, and entrepreneur — to explore her journey from working across Madrid, Washington DC, and San Francisco to founding Jar Thuraya, a women-led social enterprise in Lebanon rooted in tradition, culture, and purpose. This isn’t just a conversation about entrepreneurship. It’s about:• Building a business rooted in identity and culture• Turning international experience into local impact• Navigating crisis while growing a social enterprise• Empowering women through entrepreneurship• Creating value beyond profit 💡 Martine shares insights from her global journey, the challenges of building in Lebanon’s complex environment, and how Jar Thuraya became a platform for empowerment, creativity, and resilience. 🎧 Watch & Listen Everywhere📺 Full episode: YouTube🎧 Audio: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram and TikTok This season is proudly supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon, empowering conversations that drive youth innovation and impact. 🎥 Studio and Production: Paolo Khayyat and PodHub Studios 💬 Join the conversationWhat does “social impact” mean to you in today’s world?

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 3 of Voices Beyond Borders. 🎙️ From Crisis to Creation with Hasan JaafarCan crisis be turned into opportunity or does it simply force you to rethink everything?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Hasan Jaafar to explore a journey that blends engineering, entrepreneurship, and impact, from working in traditional energy systems to building YY ReGen, a startup reimagining sustainable energy solutions in Lebanon.T his isn’t just a conversation about startups. It’s about:-Turning crisis into creation-Building solutions in one of the most challenging environments-Rethinking energy, sustainability, and impact-The realities of entrepreneurship in Lebanon today 💡 Hasan shares the defining moments of his journey, offering real insights for anyone looking to create meaningful change. 🎧 Watch & Listen Everywhere📺 Full episode: YouTube🎧 Audio: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram and TikTok This season is proudly supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon, empowering conversations that drive youth innovation and impact. Studio and Production: Paolo Khayyat. 💬 Join the conversationDo you think crisis creates opportunity — or just resilience? Drop your thoughts in the comments.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 2 of Voices Beyond Borders. 🎙️ Running for a Nation with Arz Zahreddine What does it take to keep going when the odds were never in your favor?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Arz Zahreddine to explore a journey shaped by resilience, identity, and unwavering determination — from growing up facing challenges and societal barriers to representing Lebanon on the global stage as a Paralympian. This isn’t just a conversation about sports. It’s about:-Turning pain into purpose-Finding strength through adversity-Overcoming setbacks and making historic comebacks-Representing a nation with pride in difficult times 💡 Arz shares the defining moments of his journey, from early struggles and bullying, to Tokyo 2020, to his comeback and gold medal victory, offering a message of hope and perseverance to every young person navigating uncertainty today. 🎧 Watch & Listen Everywhere📺 Full episode: YouTube🎧 Audio: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram and TikTok This season is proudly supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon, empowering conversations that drive youth innovation and impact. 💬 Join the conversationWhat keeps you going when things get tough? Drop it in the comments.

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 1 of Voices Beyond Borders.🎙️ Beyond the White Coat with Bryan YoussefWhat happens when personal struggle meets purpose?In this powerful season premiere, we sit down with Bryan Youssef to unpack the journey beyond the white coat, from navigating challenges and uncertainty to building EduBolt, a startup rooted in impact and youth empowerment.This isn’t just a conversation about entrepreneurship. It’s about:-Turning adversity into innovation-Building something meaningful from scratch-Empowering youth to take control of their future-The real, unfiltered side of the startup journey💡 Bryan shares the moments that shaped him, the risks he took, and the vision behind EduBolt, offering insights every young entrepreneur needs to hear.🎧 Watch Listen Everywhere📺 Full episode: YouTube🎧 Audio: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram and TikTokThis season is proudly supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon, empowering conversations that drive youth innovation and impact.💬 Join the conversationWhat’s one struggle that shaped your path? Drop it in the comments.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 7 of Voices Beyond Borders. In Inclusive Diplomacy, we sit down with Ambassador Frank Mollen, the Dutch Ambassador to Lebanon, for an eye-opening conversation on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in global diplomacy. How does the Netherlands integrate human rights, youth empowerment, and intersectional DEI frameworks into its foreign policy? What challenges and opportunities arise when promoting inclusion in Lebanon? And how can diplomacy serve as a tool for lasting social change? Join us as we explore the Dutch Embassy’s impact, the role of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), and the future of inclusive leadership in an ever-evolving world. 📺 Full episode (video): YouTube🎧 Full episode (audio): Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram  This season is funded by @nlinlebanon . 🔗 Watch, listen, and be part of the conversation! Let’s shape a more inclusive future—together.

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 6 of Voices Beyond Borders. In Youth in Action: Advocacy, Action & Aspirations with YAC, we sit down with members of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon to explore how young changemakers are shaping the future.  🚀What challenges do Lebanese youth face today? How can advocacy drive real change? And what does the future hold for the next generation of leaders? In this episode, we dive into youth empowerment, policy change, and the power of collective action. 📺 Full episode (video): YouTube🎧 Full episode (audio): Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers: Instagram This season is proudly funded by @nlinlebanon. 🔗 Watch, listen, and join the conversation. The future starts with us! #VoicesBeyondBorders #YouthInAction #YAC #Lebanon #YoungLeaders #AdvocacyMatters #FutureOfLebanon #Changemakers #YouthEmpowerment

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 5 of Voices Beyond Borders. In Advocacy in Action, we sit down with SIDC—a trailblazing organization that has spent over 35 years championing health, human rights, and equality in Lebanon. From harm reduction and HIV awareness to gender equality and policy advocacy, SIDC is at the forefront of creating a stigma-free society. 💡 How do we break taboos, push for policy change, and support marginalized communities? This episode dives deep into SIDC’s groundbreaking work, ongoing challenges, and vision for the future. 📺 Full episode (video): YouTube🎧 Listen on: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Teasers & highlights: Instagram This season is proudly funded by @nlinlebanon. 🔗 Watch, listen, and be part of the change! Together, we can break barriers. 💜 #VoicesBeyondBorders #AdvocacyInAction #SIDC #HarmReduction #LGBTQIA #HealthForAll #HumanRights #GenderEquality #BreakTheStigma #Lebanon

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 4 of Voices Beyond Borders. In Beyond the Taboo: Why SexEd & Visibility Matters, I sit down with Nazih, a Fulbright scholar and the founder of Mich Aayb, a groundbreaking platform for sexual education in Arabic.  We dive deep into why sexual education is more than just a "buzzword"—it’s about health, empowerment, and breaking harmful taboos, especially in Lebanon and the MENA region. From navigating cultural sensitivities to advocating for LGBTQIA+ inclusion, Nazih shares his journey, challenges, and hopes for a future where knowledge leads to change. 🔍 Why does sexual education matter? What are the biggest misconceptions? And how do we create a more inclusive society? Tune in now! 🎧 Listen now: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts📺 Watch the full episode: YouTube🎬 Catch teasers on: Instagram This season is proudly funded by @nlinlebanon.  #VoicesBeyondBorders #BeyondTheTaboo #SexEducation #LGBTQIA #QueerVoices #MichAayb #MENAVisibility #Podcast #RepresentationMatters #BreakTheTaboo #SexEdMatters

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 3 of Voices Beyond Borders! 🎙️✨ In Painting Outside the Lines, I sit down with the fierce and fearless Barbie Breakout—a drag artist, activist, and advocate for change. From using drag as a form of resistance to breaking societal norms, Barbie shares her journey of self-expression, activism, and pushing boundaries.  🏳️‍🌈🔥This episode is all about defying expectations, embracing authenticity, and using art as a tool for impact. You don’t want to miss this conversation! 🎧 Listen now: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts.📺 Watch the full episode: YouTube.🎬 Catch teasers on: Instagram. This season is proudly funded by @nlinlebanon.  #VoicesBeyondBorders #BarbieBreakout #PaintingOutsideTheLines #DragActivism #QueerVoices #LGBTQIA #DragArt #Podcast #RepresentationMatters #DragAsResistance

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 2 of Voices Beyond Borders! 🎙️✨In Royalty Redefined, I sit down with the one and only Admira, winner of Drag Race Sweden Season 1. 👑🔥 But this conversation goes beyond the crown—Admira shares her full journey in drag, from the early days of self-discovery to becoming an international icon. We talk about artistry, resilience, and what it truly means to rule your own kingdom.🚀 This season is proudly funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon.📺 Watch the full episode (video) on YouTube🎧 Listen to the full episode (audio) on: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Catch exclusive teasers on Instagram!📲 Stay connected for more:Username on all platforms: Voices Beyond Borders Podcast🔥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support underrepresented voices and keep the conversation going! 💜#VoicesBeyondBorders #RoyaltyRedefined #Admira #DragRaceSweden #LGBTQIA #QueerVoices #DragArt #Activism #Identity #Storytelling #Podcast #MiddleEastVoices #RepresentationMatters #Drag #DragExcellence #Rupaul

Welcome to Season 2, Episode 1 of Voices Beyond Borders!  🎙️✨We’re kicking off the season with Beyond the Monsters, featuring the incredible Grey Matter and Auntie Heroine—two artists and activists redefining art, identity, and self-expression through their transformative work. 🚀 This season is proudly funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lebanon. 📺 Watch the full episode (video) on YouTube🎧 Listen to the full episode (audio) on: Podeo, Anghami, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Podcasts🎬 Catch exclusive teasers on Instagram! 📲 Stay connected for more:Username on all platforms: Voices Beyond Borders Podcast 🔥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support underrepresented voices and keep the conversation going! 💜

Welcome to the final episode of "Voices Beyond Borders" Season 1! Join us for an insightful exploration of drag culture in Episode 6, "Global Drag Experiences." In this episode, we delve into the multifaceted world of drag, discussing its definition, opportunities, challenges, and the current global landscape for drag artists. We also highlight advocacy efforts and effective strategies for raising awareness about the artistry and cultural significance of drag. 🎙️ Episode Highlights:-Definition and significance of drag culture worldwide.-Challenges and opportunities faced by drag artists globally.-Advocacy efforts and strategies for raising awareness about drag's cultural significance. Don't miss out on this enriching dialogue! Hit the subscribe button to stay tuned for more captivating episodes unraveling various facets of our interconnected world. Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/voicesbeyondborderspodcast Tune in on Anghami for a seamless listening experience: Voices Beyond Borders. Thank you for being part of this global conversation. Let's continue to explore "Voices Beyond Borders" and celebrate the profound influence of embracing diversity, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting international education! #VoicesBeyondBorders #GlobalDragExperiences #DragCulture #Advocacy #AwarenessRaising

🌐 Welcome to "Voices Beyond Borders" Season 1, Episode 5. In this thought-provoking episode, titled "Queer Identities in an International Context," we delve into a thought-provoking and insightful discussion. Join us as we aim to shed light on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by LGBTQ+ students in international exchange programs, while also exploring the intersectionality of their identities.  Our conversation will delve into strategies to foster inclusive environments and communities, and we'll also take a deep dive into the significance of Fulbright PRISM and its role in the lives of queer Fulbrighters. 🎙️ Episode Highlights:-Explore the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ students in international exchange programs.-Discuss the intersectionality of queer identities and the challenges they face in global contexts.-Examine the importance of fostering inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ individuals in international educational settings.-Dive into the significance of Fulbright PRISM and its role in supporting queer Fulbrighters during their exchange experiences. Our conversation promises to be enlightening and thought-provoking, offering valuable insights into the complexities of queer identities in a global context. 🚀 Don't miss this enriching dialogue! Hit that subscribe button to stay tuned for more captivating episodes unraveling various facets of our interconnected world. 📲 Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/voicesbeyondborderspodcast 🎧 Tune in on Anghami for a seamless listening experience: Voices Beyond Borders.Thank you for being part of this global conversation.  Together, let's continue to explore "Voices Beyond Borders" and celebrate the profound influence of embracing diversity, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting international education! #VoicesBeyondBorders #QueerIdentity #InternationalExchange #FulbrightPRISM #GlobalConversation

🌐 Welcome to "Voices Beyond Borders" Season 1, Episode 4. In this thought-provoking episode, titled "Embracing Diversity & Inclusion," we embark on a profound exploration of the significance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in our society.  Join us as we discuss the myriad benefits that embracing diversity brings, the challenges it faces, and the current global climate surrounding these critical issues. 🎙️ Episode Highlights:-Uncover the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in shaping a more enriched and harmonious society.-Dive into the challenges faced by DEI initiatives and the ongoing efforts to overcome them.-Explore the global context surrounding diversity issues and the collective responsibility we share in fostering an inclusive world. Our conversation will also shed light on the pivotal role played by the Diversity and Inclusion Student Commons (DISC) at MSU, delving into its impact on shaping the lives of the MSU community. 🚀 Don't miss this enlightening and enriching conversation! Hit that subscribe button to stay tuned for more captivating episodes unraveling various facets of our interconnected world. 📲 Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/voicesbeyondborderspodcast 🎧 Tune in on Anghami for a seamless listening experience: Voices Beyond Borders.Thank you for being part of this global conversation.  Together, let's continue to explore "Voices Beyond Borders" and celebrate the profound influence of embracing diversity, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting international education! #VoicesBeyondBorders #EmbracingDiversity #DiversityEquityInclusion #DISC #GlobalConversation

🌐 Welcome back to "Voices Beyond Borders" Season 1, Episode 3: Discovering Cultural Exchange Organizations!Join us in this enlightening episode as we dive deep into the world of cultural exchange.In "Discovering Cultural Exchange Organizations," we focus on AMIDEAST's pivotal role, mission, and vision, along with the myriad educational and cultural programs it brings to the global stage.🎙️ Episode Highlights:-Uncover the essential role played by AMIDEAST in shaping global education through its mission and vision.-Explore the diverse educational and cultural programs offered by AMIDEAST, contributing to a rich tapestry of global connections.-Delve into the transformative impact of exchange programs on fostering global understanding and cooperation.🚀 Don't miss this insightful conversation! Hit that subscribe button to stay tuned for more captivating episodes unraveling the world of international connections.📲 Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/voicesbeyondborderspodcast🎧 Tune in on Anghami for a seamless listening experience: Voices Beyond Borders.Thank you for being part of this global conversation. Together, let's continue to explore "Voices Beyond Borders" and celebrate the profound influence of cultural exchange and international education!#VoicesBeyondBorders #CulturalExchange #AMIDEAST #GlobalUnderstanding

🌐 Welcome back to "Voices Beyond Borders" Season 1, Episode 2: Exploring International Education Programs!  In this engaging episode, we embark on a journey into the multifaceted world of international education. Join us as we unravel the pivotal role of the Office of International Programs (OIP), delve into the impact of international students on university life, and explore the rich array of exchange programs available at MSU. 🎙️ Episode Highlights:-Gain insights into the indispensable role played by the Office of International Programs in shaping the global education landscape.-Explore the profound impact of international students on the vibrant tapestry of university life, fostering cultural diversity and enriching academic environments.-Navigate through the diverse spectrum of exchange programs at MSU, uncovering unique opportunities for global learning and collaboration. 🚀 Don't miss out on the enlightening conversation! Hit that subscribe button to stay tuned for more captivating episodes exploring the world of international connections. 📲 Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/voicesbeyondborderspodcast 🎧 Tune in on Anghami for a seamless listening experience: Voices Beyond Borders. Thank you for joining us in this global conversation. Together, let's continue to explore "Voices Beyond Borders" and celebrate the transformative power of international education! #VoicesBeyondBorders #InternationalEducation #MSUExchangePrograms

🌐 Welcome to "Voices Beyond Borders" Season 1, Episode 1: Exploring International Exchange Programs!  In this premiere episode, we are delving into the vibrant experiences of international exchange students in the USA.  🎙️ Episode Highlights: -Gain firsthand insights into the unique challenges and incredible benefits our guests have encountered during their international exchange journeys. -Discover the transformative power of cultural exchange and the profound impact it has had on their lives. -Uncover inspiring stories that transcend borders and showcase the beauty of global connections.  🚀 Don't miss out on the adventure! Hit that subscribe button to stay updated on all our upcoming episodes.  📲 Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/voicesbeyondborderspodcast 🎧 Catch the podcast on Anghami for a seamless listening experience: Voices Beyond Borders.  Thank you for being a part of this global conversation. Together, let's explore "Voices Beyond Borders" and celebrate the power of connection! #VoicesBeyondBorders #InternationalExchange