afikra | عفكرة is a global organization that aims to promote intellectualism and the diversity and richness of the Arab world’s cultures and histories. Through our events globally, our podcasts online and our academy courses, we've built a global community of volunteers, thinkers, and explorers who are reshaping the story about the Arab world together.
We are a movement that exists to reframe the way people perceive the Arab world. We strive to challenge common misconceptions and encourage intellectual dialogue about the region's rich history, diverse culture, and extraordinary people. Join us in fostering a deeper appreciation for the Arab world and its unique contributions to the global community.
As a member, your contributions help sustain the platform to share stories, preserve culture, broaden perspectives, foster understanding and create new connections about the Arab world.
Contribute to this vision. Become an afikra contributing member.
El-Funoun Popular Dance Troupe gave new life to Palestine’s traditional musical and dance heritage, introducing some contemporary interpretations. The troupe is also responsible for creating the Palestine Folklore Day – an annual celebration that launched in 1986 - and for establishing the Popular Art Centre in 1987. Image via the Palestinian Museum Digital Archive.
A curated Listen, Watch, Read list spotlighting works from Syria. Featuring an album by TootArd, a novel by Khaled Khalifa, and a documentary film by Taim Karesly.
Hamid El Shaeri is an Egyptian-Libyan singer, songwriter and producer who’s considered to be one of the leading figures in Arabic pop – and the “al Jeel” genre. Image via The Vinyl Factory
In our Kawalis interview with Carol Mansour, we asked for her top recommendations for Palestinian films. Still from Elia Suleiman’s Time That Remains via Zaymn.
A look at the life and art of Jewad Selim — an Iraqi painter and sculptor who was considered one of the founders of modern art in Iraq. Image via The National News.
A curated Listen, Watch, Read list spotlighting works from Egypt. Featuring an album by Dina El Wedidi, a book by Nawal El Saadawi and a film directed by Ayten Amin.
Our free online library is a collectively built representation of our community’s explorations & presentations. Check out the latest as well as our past conversations, presentations, and more…
afikra is truly a global movement powered by local volunteers . These incredible people make afikra special. Over the years they have hosted 100s of events and grown out community to 100,000 people globally.
Take the leap and join our incredible list of presenters! Even if you aren’t sure about your topic yet and are nervous about speaking in front of a crowd, don’t worry your personal afikra coach will guide you every step of the way.
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