Clik here to view.
_MG_9069.JPGThe NSLI-Y Morocco program had a successful summer with nineteen American high school students eager to expand their knowledge of Arabic and Moroccan culture. The students dived into the program with a calligraphy workshop designed to connect with the beautiful language they would be devoting the majority of their time to. Celebrations of both American and Moroccan holidays also gave the students an opportunity to trade customs with new friends and family while reflecting on all that they had learned and gained.
The Art of Calligraphy
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
On June 25, 2015, the iEARN NSLI-Y Morocco students participated in a calligraphy workshop at their language center, Qalam Wa Lawh. Mohammed, Qalam Wa Lawh’s resident calligrapher, presented in Arabic the history, significance, and technique of Arabic calligraphy. Students then practiced their handwriting and tried various styles of the art with the help of the instructor. One student in particular, Eric, has studied Arabic calligraphy as a hobby prior to this program. Mohammed was impressed with his knowledge and ability. Eric’s peers have further encouraged him to pursue calligraphy training while in country and learn the Moroccan style of this art form. The workshop was an amazing way for students to connect with the language; seeing the words they learn turn into art right before their eyes inspired them and taught them that the language is as beautiful as it is challenging.
Happy Fourth of Djellaba
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
On July 4th, NSLI-Y Morocco students organized an Independence Day celebration: shopping for groceries at the local market and cooking and baking with the help of the wonderful kitchen staff at Qalam Wa Lawh. The students agreed to celebrate the 4th of July in the evening so that their Moroccan friends and teachers could also enjoy the food when breaking their fast for Ramadan. They decided to call the event the 4th of Djellaba (a traditional Moroccan dress worn by both men and women). The party was a great success and fully led by the NSLI-Y group. The students all agreed that it was a very memorable 4th of July for them and they were grateful to have the opportunity to share their culture with the Moroccans. They appreciated the melding of Morocco and America during this event and enjoyed incorporating aspects of the U.S. into a classic Ramadan evening.
Celebrating Eid Al Fitr
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
On July 18, 2015, NSLI-Y Morocco students in Rabat had the unique opportunity to experience Eid al Fitr, the Muslim holiday celebrating the end of Ramadan, with their Moroccan families.
“'Bnty Amreekya' is how my host family introduces me to their relatives and friends. When they say this, they always smile, for it means 'my American daughter.' Over the past few weeks, I have really gotten to know my Moroccan family and, this past weekend, I had the honor of celebrating Eid al-Fitr with them...I loved getting to spend the holiday surrounded by family." - Anna
