Curious people make better citizens, and curious communities make better societies.
afikra began as a grassroots movement and evolved into a global media and educational platform dedicated to exploring Arab history and culture. We believe that curious people make better citizens, and curious communities make better societies.
We aim to build a global community of curious minds, eager to understand and reframe the Arab world’s past, present, and future.
In envisioning the future, afikra | عفكرة aims to be the catalyst for a global renaissance, where the Arab region's rich histories, cultures, and contributions are globally recognized, represented, and celebrated. By exploring the Arab world's diverse narratives through curiosity-driven conversations, we aspire to create a community of informed, curious individuals committed to dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
Why We Do It
To counteract one-dimensional narratives and foster a nuanced understanding and appreciation of the Arab world, contributing to a global renaissance of cultural and historical awareness.
How We Do It
Driven by curiosity, inclusivity, and community, we encourage proactive questioning and critical thinking, inviting our members to explore the Arab world's histories and cultures deeply. Through partnerships with leading institutions and the support of our volunteer network, we amplify our impact globally.
Contribution
Over Consumption
Cultivating growth through activeparticipation and sharing.
Interests
Over Identity
Valuing our members’ curiosity and commitment to building a better future for the Arab world.
Curiosity
Over Promotionalism
Encouraging questions and over promoting personal agendas.
Community
Over Exclusivity
We encourage and welcome anyoneto join our community.
Kindness Above All :)
afikra is a Fiscally Sponsored Organization of ArteEast.
How Mikey Muhanna built afikra | عفكرة
A Founder’s Story:
The idea came to Mikey on a September evening in 2014, at a small rooftop gathering in Brooklyn. He and his friends were discussing how little they all knew about the Arab world's cultures and histories — and how they engaged with the region in only two ways: through cultural celebrations (weddings, reunions, holidays) or through activism (rallies, protests, documentaries).
They felt a need for a third way. A space to explore, question, and learn without an agenda.
So Mikey started a simple gathering. A handful of curious minds, a shared language, and a simple idea: Arab culture deserves a global stage.
More people began to attend — first from all over New York, then flying in from other parts of the world. It became clear this need wasn't unique to a small group of friends.
(The Culture Counter by The Arts Club Dubai, April 2022)
New Connections
Growing up in the Arab world, I've always called this region home. However, given the narrow and stereotypical popular narratives about what this place was, I did not know how I fit in. Since 2014, afikra has become a global movement to reshape that narrative and to showcase how broad, deep, and dynamic the histories and cultures of the Arab world are. And most importantly, afikra has connected me to a global diverse community of friends invested in its past and future.
Mikey Muhanna
afikra Founder
