It's been quite a journey trying to understand and articulate my own identity, especially when you're born in one place like Morocco, a part of North Africa, but grow up in another, like Canada. This often leads to questions like, 'Am I African, or Middle Eastern?' and it's precisely why I've found the term MENA so helpful in explaining myself. For those wondering, what is MENA, it stands for Middle East and North Africa. It’s more than just a geographical grouping; it speaks to shared cultural, historical, and linguistic ties that often resonate more deeply than strict continental divisions. When I tell a Canadian person I'm from North Africa, sometimes there's a disconnect. People often think of Sub-Saharan Africa when they hear 'African,' which is valid, but North African people are indeed very different culturally and historically. And that's where the Middle Eastern connection comes in. It’s not about being geographically confused about where I was born, but about cultural understanding. I've often felt I have way more in common with a Middle Eastern person than someone from, say, Southern Africa, in terms of traditions, food, and even humor. It’s an easier way for others to understand me when they don't know the nuances of Moroccan heritage. It's not about erasing my African roots, but acknowledging the unique blend that makes up my background. Morocco's complicated history plays a huge role in this. We have strong Berber roots on my mom's side, and the country has seen numerous Arab conquests and was a French protectorate for a significant period. This rich blend means we're a mix of many different things – languages, customs, and even appearances. It’s not always straightforward, and when you don't live in these regions, most people just don't know what that even means. This personal journey made me realize I have a unique chance to educate on what North African representation looks like, something I always wished I had growing up. It's about showcasing the diverse people culture from this specific part of the world. I'm genuinely grateful that this discussion came to my attention because it highlighted the opportunity to share this perspective. It's about more than just geography; it's about shared experiences, historical ties, and the feeling of cultural belonging. I sometimes feel like I don't fully fit into one bucket or the other, and I'm sure many others can relate to that feeling of navigating a mixed identity. My hope is that my experience can encourage others to approach people's identity with kindness instead of anger, recognizing that everyone is just trying to figure out where we fit in. Learning to embrace these complexities is part of the journey, and the term MENA helps bridge that understanding gap for me and for others.