What Traveling 50+ Countries Taught Me About Courage & Sitting at the World’s Most Powerful Tables

What Traveling 50+ Countries Taught Me About Courage & Sitting at the World’s Most Powerful Tables

Author: theoasishaqqislam October 24, 2025 Duration: 52:28

In this episode Haqq Islam sits down with the extraordinary Abir Ibrahim, a development economist, public historian, and author of *“Love Letters to Sudan.” Together, they explore Sudan's complex cultural identity, history, and legacy as the cradle of civilization. Abir shares her journey of balancing a multifaceted identity shaped by Sudan, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.

This engaging conversation dives deep into Sudan’s ancient history—its rich Kushite civilization, its role in world history, and the societal challenges that have stemmed from colonial fragmentation. Abir opens up about growing up in a family with ties to literary revolutions, her time working in the development sector, and her groundbreaking travels across 50+ countries. She also reflects on her first job in the field—as a Peace Corps volunteer in Tanzania and how that transformative experience sparked her lifelong commitment to development work, cultural connection, and empowering communities across the globe.

Beyond history and heritage, Abir reflects on what it means to find the courage to step outside what’s familiar and beyond family expectations, to take up space in rooms that once felt intimidating or out of reach. She shares how embracing her voice and purpose has allowed her to stand confidently at powerful tables and encourage others to do the same, reminding listeners that they, too, have something valuable to offer wherever they go.

Abir also discusses her upcoming book, Stolen Genius, which highlights African innovations and their impact on the world, challenging narratives of erasure and reclaiming stories of brilliance and creativity.

Whether you’re curious about African history, cultural resilience, or stories of empowerment, this episode is for you.

 

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Each week on The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam, host and music industry veteran A. Haqq Islam creates a space for dialogue that feels both necessary and rare. These are conversations that move beyond surface-level headlines, delving into the tangible influence of Islamic faith and Muslim individuals within the most dynamic sectors of modern life. You’ll hear discussions exploring how faith intersects with creative and professional worlds, from the rhythms of Hip Hop and the narratives of film to the strategies of business, the innovation in technology, and the expressions of fashion and sports. This podcast consistently highlights the stories of Muslims who are actively shaping culture, yet whose contributions are often overlooked within mainstream narratives. The tone is intimate and refreshing, offering a perspective that consciously challenges narrow, stereotypical views, whether domestic or international. By focusing on real impact and personal journeys, the series builds a more nuanced understanding. It’s not about preaching, but about presenting a vibrant, multifaceted portrait of engagement and identity. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a forum where spirituality, ambition, and cultural commentary meet, all guided by a host with deep roots in the industry he discusses. The result is a compelling blend of personal insight and broader cultural analysis, making each episode a point of connection and discovery.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 57

The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam
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