What interests me about promoting Arab culture through food is the opportunity to share something that feels both personal and meaningful. As a Black woman, I’ve noticed that in my community we can sometimes be hesitant to explore foods outside of what we already know, like American Chinese or Mexican food. Through my boyfriend and his family, I’ve been able to try so many new Arab dishes, and it’s opened my eyes to how much food can connect people and tell a story about culture. It’s been fun not only expanding my own palate but also introducing my family to new flavors and traditions. I’d love to help others have that same experience discovering Arab culture through food in a way that feels welcoming and authentic.

My social media style is very community-focused and conversational. I like to approach it less like I’m “marketing” and more like I’m building a space where people can see themselves and feel connected. I’ve actually been learning more about Arab culture recently, and what I’ve realized is how powerful food, traditions, and stories can be in making people feel proud of their identity. So for a brand like Hayati, I’d focus on content that feels authentic and inviting, sharing recipes, cultural context, and even spotlighting voices from the community. I’d also use polls, questions, and reposting community content to make it interactive, so it feels like we’re building something together instead of just posting at people.

During my time at the literacy nonprofit I worked with, I built relationships with both community partners and volunteers by just being consistent, responsive, and genuine. One example that stands out is when I helped coordinate a partnership event with a local brewery. I was the main point of contact and kept communication smooth on both ends—checking in, being flexible with needs, and making sure everyone felt heard. That experience taught me that relationship-building isn’t about overdoing it—it’s about being reliable, respectful, and showing people you actually care about the work you’re doing together.