December 14, 2016

Ayub Ayubi is the founder and chairperson of Renaissance by Social Innovation in answer to violent extremism and radicalization. Ayub implements cultural conflict resolution skills and ample opportunity for dialogue, space and time for students on a global scale.   Ayub works tirelessly as a researcher, trainer and facilitator to counter violent extremism, cyber extremism […]

Anxhela Ndrio wrote this as a freshman at Loyola University Chicago. She shares her unique perspective as an immigrant to empower people of all backgrounds to stand up and respond to the refugee crisis in Syria.   I will never forget a man by the name Dr. Ghaffar Kazkaz – a retired Syrian engineer and

Fatima was born in Venezuela, of Lebanese descent. In her beautiful story, she combines her worlds of Arabic, Latin, and American cultures. In 2006, she visited Lebanon, where she was caught in cross-fire due to war. Fatima has lived in Michigan for over 20 years, and wants to be identified by her range of dynamic

Bihi fled from Somaliland due to war and conflict. In his eloquent story, he describes his journey to America, and how he remains committed to help his community overcome cultural and language barriers in Minneapolis. This story was recorded in partnership with StoryCorps and MALA. Production credits given to Sydey Jarol at StoryCorps in Chicago.

In his eloquent and poignant story, Zeshan describes his unique upbringing from South Asian parents. After studying Opera in college, he decided to blend an eclectic combination of his talents. A conservatory-trained vocal virtuoso, he is as home with classic and neo-soul as he is with ghazal, qawwali, gospel or opera. Zeshan recently performed for

Sharareh Drury’s first name means “sparkling flame”. She says her mom gave that name because she knew that Sharareh was going to be special. Sharareh is of mixed heritage — Her mom’s side of the family is from Iran and her dad’s side is from Ireland. She recently came to the StoryCorps booth in the