Shows
BelongingsBeyond Borders: On Identity and Activism with Isra Chaker and Yusuf Isra Chakir, the extraordinary Syrian-American civil rights activist, joins us for an eye-opening conversation about her journey in advocacy and identity. As a Senior Campaign Manager at Amnesty International USA, Isra has been a stalwart champion for immigrant and refugee rights. Her deeply personal narrative of belonging as a third culture kid split between Boulder, Colorado, and Damascus, Syria, offers a compelling look into the duality of identity and the quest for creating inclusive spaces through activism. Furthermore, the narrative pivots to the remarkable stories of Syrian refugees who have transformed their lives through organizations like Karam...2024-11-011h 28
BelongingsEmpowering Syrian Youth Through Education with Majed Abdelsamad and George Batah What does it mean to truly belong? Join us in this compelling episode, “Empowering Syrian Youth Through Education,” where we are honored to speak with George Batah and Majed Abdelsamad, two extraordinary Syrian humanitarians now thriving in New York. They open up about their evolving sense of belonging—originally rooted in their homeland of Syria but transformed through their experiences in the United States. Majed shares his journey from viewing belonging as tied to a specific place to understanding it as an emotional connection to various moments in time, while George discusses how forming new relationships in America has helped...2024-09-131h 18
BelongingsRising from the Rubble: Overcoming Loss and Displacements with Rose McCall and Nour Join us on an emotional journey with Rose McCall, our Belonging(s) guest and the Director of Philanthropy at Karam Foundation, as she weaves stories of belonging beyond conventional limits. Through her narratives, we explore the complex terrain of identity—a rich tapestry interlaced with cultural heritage, the immigrant experience, and personal reflections of home aboard her sailboat, Yuvamaz. This episode will reshape your perception of belonging, inviting you to engage in a conversation that navigates both the heart and the world.Also, from Karam House, meet Nour, Karam’s Leader, who defines resilience. Despite the multiple disp...2024-08-161h 07
BelongingsCanvas of Cultures: Exploring Migration Through Art with Helen Zughaib and Kardelin In this episode, embark on a journey of artistic discovery with Helen Zughaib, a visionary artist whose canvas extends far beyond paint and brushes to the core of human experience. Her creation, “Map of Home,” is a gateway to a conversation laced with nostalgia, belonging, and the intricate ways our cultural roots shape us. Through Helen’s lens, we traverse the landscapes of her Lebanese heritage, personal milestones, and the symbols that anchor her sense of self amidst a life journey from Beirut to Paris and finally to the melting pot of America.From Karam House, meet our Ka...2024-07-191h 11
BelongingsInvisible Threads: Shaping Identity and Journalism with Hala Gorani and Jana Experience the profound journey of identity and the search for a sense of belonging with Hala Gorani, the renowned journalist whose own story embodies the complexity of culture and heritage. Navigating the heart-wrenching realities of war-torn regions, Hala Gorani provides a raw account of the Syrian conflict and the emotional labor inherent in telling these stories.From Karam House, meet Jana, a Karam Leader and a resilient human being who has experienced not one but multiple displacements. Despite Jana's challenges with her family fleeing Syria in 2011 and experiencing the earthquake in 2023, Jana has thrived. 2024-07-051h 11
BelongingsWeaving Narratives of Identity, Diaspora, and Dreams With Liam LoPinto and ShaimaaJoin us on a captivating journey as we explore the nuanced layers of belonging with Liam LoPinto, an Iranian-American filmmaker whose poignant work captures the heart of diaspora experiences.From Karam House, meet Shaimaa, a Syrian refugee and a Karam Leader. Shaimaa speaks of her struggles leaving a home behind and of a dream she kept alive. "The House of Dreams" is what Shaimaa hopes to build for kids, no matter where they come from.2024-06-141h 10
BelongingsCourage Across Borders with Arwa Damon and YusufArwa Damon, a journalist and humanitarian, shares her experiences and insights in this conversation. She discusses her upbringing in the Middle East, her definition of belonging, and her journey as a journalist covering conflict zones. Arwa also talks about her work with INARA, a nonprofit organization that provides medical care to children in war-torn nations. She shares stories of resilience and compassion, highlighting the importance of human connection amid tragedy.From Karam House Yusuf speaks of his personal journey from Syria to Turkiye, the struggles he faced and how he ended up being part of the Karam...2024-05-241h 21
BelongingsA Tapestry of Art and Identity with Arian Moayed and Aya As we launch into the third season of our podcast, Arian's reflections on belonging offer a rich tapestry of community and identity woven through personal stories from his life. From the heritage of the Taino people to the challenges of Western business practices, Arian's conversation takes us on a profound exploration of love, connection, and the way our cultural traditions shape who we are. And from Karam House, Aya, a Syrian refugee and medical student in Turkiye, embodies the resilience of the human spirit. Her story, punctuated by the harrowing escape from her homeland and the recent...2024-05-031h 30
BelongingsDocumenting the Human Spirit: Orlando von Einsiedel on Filmmaking, Conflict, and BelongingIn this season finale of Belongings, embark on an emotional voyage with Orlando von Einsiedel, an Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker whose work in capturing the raw human experience in war-torn regions has reshaped our understanding of home and belonging. Through intimate conversation, Orlando opens up about the deep emotional bonds that he forms with his subjects; bonds that often challenge his own perceptions of safety, love, and the essence of home. His powerful anecdotes and personal reflections offer a unique window into the lives of those affected by conflict, as seen in his poignant films like The White Helmets and...2024-01-131h 05
BelongingsSyrian Refugee Support: Journey into UnderstandingJoin us for an emotional clip of resilience, empowerment, and humanity as we traverse through stories of Syrian refugees, with special guest Rose McCal, Karam Foundation’s Director of Philanthropy. Full episode to be released soon. To support Syrian refugees, visit KaramFoundation.org2023-12-1837 min
BelongingsTriumph Over Tremors: A Post Earthquake StoryWhen the earth literally shakes beneath your feet, your sense of home and belonging can be deeply affected. Assalah, a Syrian refugee and valued member of the Karam House team, knows this reality all too well. She recounts the tremors of the February earthquakes that left her homeless, painting a vivid picture of a life upended and yet resilient, fueled by her unwavering sense of belonging. An exemplary figure, Assalah shares not just her tales of survival, but also her invaluable work at Karam House.This episode also takes you through the aftermath of the earthquakes in...2023-12-091h 04
BelongingsREPUBLISHED: Belonging, Activism, and the Struggle for Liberation: A Conversation with Lara Elborno and LamaIn light of recent events, we republish our episode with Lara Elborno, an international lawyer and creator of the Palestine Pod. Together, Lina and Lara discuss the complexities of activism, the concept of belonging, and the struggle for Palestine liberation. Then, from Karam House Istanbul, team member Lama recalls her Damascus memories and how connecting with the community makes her feel like she belongs.2023-10-181h 00
BelongingsExploring Cultural Identity with Omar Offendum and Maram: A Journey Through Little Syria and BeyondGet ready to step into the captivating mind of Syrian-American rapper and spoken word artist Omar Offendum. From the intersections of hip-hop and Arabic poetry to his architectural influences, Omar’s unique perspective and storytelling invite you on an inspiring journey through culture, identity, and history. The second part of our episode introduces us to a story of courage and resilience. Meet Maram, a 17-year-old Syrian refugee living in Istanbul whose love for music and indomitable spirit shine through her harrowing experiences. Omar’s profound insights on identity and belonging, coupled with Maram’s inspiring journey serve as a testament to the...2023-10-011h 32
BelongingsUnderstanding Belonging through Design and Displacement: A Conversation with Abeer Seikaly and Yousef YousefBrace yourself for a journey of exploration into the realms of belonging, home, and identity with Lina's dear friend Abeer Seikaly, a brilliant figure known for her innovative work in architecture, design, and cultural production. This episode is a trove of insights as they discuss Abeer's extraordinary journey with the Bedouin communities in Jordan, her unique approach to design, her passion for restoring the intimacy of hand-making, and her deep-rooted connection to her Jordanian heritage. Lina also engages in a heart-to-heart with Yousef, a Karam House Mentor and Karam Scholars graduate, whose personal narratives of seeking home from Aleppo to...2023-08-191h 31
BelongingsNavigating Polyculturalism and the Healing Power of Art with Jamil Khoury and MajdIn this episode, Lina and co-founder and executive director of Silk Road Rising Theatre, explore the intriguing concept of belonging. With Jamil's progressive, polyculturalist perspective, the two navigated through complex subjects like cultural evolution, the power of dialogue, and the significance of cultural exchange as a means of finding belonging.Then from Karam House Istanbul, Lina chats with Majd who discusses his life in Aleppo and reflects on his childhood memories.2023-07-221h 11
BelongingsCreating a Sense of Belonging: Insights from Renn Vara on Ethical Leadership and the Power of EducationI've always believed that belonging is a fundamental human need, but it took my conversation with Renn Vara to fully understand its magnitude and depth. Renn's insights, formed from years of working with Silicon Valley tech companies, shed light on how the idea of belonging influenced Airbnb's branding journey and how it's a gift we can all give and receive. We also delved into some of Renn's personal stories that have shaped his worldview. From his inspiring work with homeless children in New York City to his writing project aimed at his future grandchildren, Renn's experiences express his desire to...2023-07-101h 06
BelongingsAdvocacy, Storytelling, and Healing with Waad Al-Kateab and MohammadIn this season finale, Lina is joined by journalist, filmmaker, activist, and special friend Waad Al-Kateab. They discuss the challenges of grieving as a refugee and the guilt around feeling sad for leaving Syria. They touch on the importance of allowing ourselves to mourn, while recognizing the privilege of being able to do so. Waad shares her unique experience of finding a connection to Syria through her drawing of her family’s home, and the strength it provides her. Then, from Karam House Reyhanli, Lina chats with Mohammad, a Karam House graduate. Together, they explore the loss of belonging, an...2023-05-191h 03
BelongingsBelonging, Activism, and the Struggle for Liberation: A Conversation with Lara Elborno and LamaIn this episode, Lina is joined by Lara Elborno, an international lawyer and creator of the Palestine Pod. Together, they discuss the complexities of activism, the concept of belonging, and the struggle for Palestine liberation. Then, from Karam House Istanbul, team member Lama recalls her Damascus memories and how connecting with the community makes her feel like she belongs.2023-05-051h 00
BelongingsBelonging to the Future with Amer Jandali and Alaa In this episode, Lina chats with "futurist" Amer Jandali about belonging, the planet, and how we, as a global community can come together to shape our future. Then, from Istanbul, seventeen-year-old Alaa shares his unique understanding of belonging and why community means the world to him,2023-03-271h 11
BelongingsA Reflection on the Turkiye-Syria EarthquakeIn this special episode, Lina joins Karam Foundation Director of Communications, Rama Majzoub, for a conversation on the February Turkiye-Syria earthquakes. Together they discuss Karam's emergency response, the needs of the community, and what Lina witnessed firsthand when she visited Reyhanli just days after the earthquake.2023-03-1138 min
BelongingsThe Language of Belonging with Nour Al Ghraowi and Sam Al SamanIn this episode, Lina chats with Nour Al Ghraowi, poet and member of the Karam Foundation team. They discuss belonging and the power of inclusive language. Then, from The Netherlands, 19-year-old Sam shares his unique journey of moving from one country to another to another and how it helped him shape a unique perspective on belonging.2023-01-271h 16
BelongingsBreaking Stereotypes with Laith Nakli and LayanIn this episode, Lina chats with Laith Nakle about representation and fitting in while standing out. Then, from Istanbul, Lina talks to Layan about finding yourself in the community around you.2023-01-141h 04
BelongingsThe Crux of Belonging with Wendy Pearlman and BayanIn this episode, Lina talks to award-winning professor and author Wendy Pearlman about telling the stories of unheard voices and what authentic belonging comes down to. Then, we hear from Bayan from Reyhanli, Turkey and her perspective on finding home and being yourself.2022-12-301h 04
BelongingsA reflection on 2022In this surprise episode of Belongings, Lina reflects on the past year as Karam CEO and what the team in Turkey, in the US, and supporters made possible for refugees. 2022-12-2321 min
BelongingsOwning our Stories with Hassan Akkad and Abdulaziz In this inspirational episode of Belongings, Lina speaks with Hassan Akkad, a Syrian refugee, photographer, filmmaker, and refugee rights activist in the United Kingdom about the refugee experience and the importance of owning and documenting our stories. Then, from the heart of Istanbul, 19-year-old Abdulaziz shares his story of hope and loss, and recounts intimate details about the childhood flat in Damascus he once called home.2022-12-161h 03
BelongingsThe Evolving Tastes of Home with Rose Previte & Mazen In this second episode of Belongings, Lina Sergie Attar sits down with restauranteur Rose Previte to talk about home, food, and hope. Rose takes listeners on a journey down memory lane and revisits her grandmother's home just in time for morning breakfast. Lina then chats with Mazen from Istanbul who shares how, through life's twists and turns, he was able to learn who he is and what he wants for his future.2022-11-251h 01
BelongingsHereness and a Home of Colors with Molly Crabapple and Reema A.In this debut episode, Lina talks to artist Molly Crabapple about her recent trip to Ukraine, supporting refugees, and the importance of storytelling and being present. This episode also features a conversation with young Reema, a Syrian refugee currently living in Reyhanli, Turkey, who talks about the memory of Syria, her struggle of building home, and how social justice movements inspired her to be the change she wishes to see.2022-11-111h 17
BelongingsEpisode 1: Belong with Molly CrabappleThe premiere episode of the Belongings podcast2022-09-301h 15
BelongingsWelcome to BelongingsThis is Belongings, intimate conversations with creative minds about the places that shape us, make us, and sometimes, break us. Where do you belong?2022-08-2501 min
The Round Table: A YVote PodcastNo one should have to be a refugeeAt this week’s Round Table, Inica, Jack & Kenisha spoke with Lina Sergie Attar, Founder and CEO of the Karam Foundation, about the refugee crisis, which is on many of our minds given what’s happening in Ukraine. Karam means generosity in Syrian and the Karam Foundation, founded in 2017, invests in young Syrian refugees to help shape a new generation of kind, courageous future leaders. Lina’s path to, and vision for, refugee education was unconventional from that of many others in the humanitarian field, which provides her with a different perspective on refugee work. With a background in archit...2022-04-2130 min
The Podcast in ArabicKaram Foundation - Investing in Syria's future - Lina Sergie AttarWhen Lina Sergie Attar started Karam Foundation, the goal was to unlock the charity potential of the Arabic community in Chicago and reinforce the culture of giving to help others. This mission was brought into focus in 2011 during the "Arab Spring", especially the Syrian conflict. Now, Karam is an international NGO with offices in the USA and Turkey, helping Syrian refugees in the social and education sectors. We sat with Lina and we talked about the beginnings, the mission and the vision for the future. Visit: www.karamfoundation.org. for more info. 2019-05-2631 min
NYUAD InstituteMaking & Remaking Our Home(land) - Loss, Resilience, And An Alternative Future For Syria2019.03.25
Will Syrians ever find home again or are we destined to forever settle in the plight of resettlement? Must we finally let go of home in order to belong once more?
For millions of displaced Syrians around the world, home prevails somewhere between fading memories and fragile dreams. In the aftermath of despair, the idea of home stretches beyond stone walls and ancient countries. Home reconstructs itself within new, unexpected, and sometimes virtual, communities.
In this talk, Syrian-American writer, architect, and CEO of Karam Foundation, Lina Sergie Attar, examines the process of negotiating home and homeland through annotations of her...2019-04-0355 min
a16z Podcasta16z Podcast: Mobility and the Global Refugee Crisis"We throw around words like 'crisis' very easily, but this is a global crisis, and it is of historic proportions," says current U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Tony Blinken about the refugee crisis (for which he and his department mobilized a response that significantly accelerated government efforts to assist refugees, as well as engage the tech sector). "People don't realize that before 2011, the number of Syrian refugees was zero," shares Lina Sergie Attar of the non-profit Karam Foundation, which aims to build a better future for Syria through education, smart aid, and sustainable development programs for internally displaced...2016-12-1634 min
Worldview - Chicago Public RadioPolitical Turmoil In Venezuela And Syrian Refugee Aid On Global ActivismThe Karam Foundation is working with Syrian refugees to improve education and development. We're joined by Karam co-founder Lina Sergie Attar, who says the organization is alleviating the suffering of thousands of Syrians impacted by the war. Next, Pope Francis tries to calm political turmoil in Venezuela.
2016-11-0350 min