We are proud to introduce Sabeeh Al-Khayyat, our 2024 – 2025 Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation Scholar. In this blog post, Sabeeh shares his personal reflections on his time in the Netherlands, offering insight into his academic journey, cultural experiences, and life as an international student. His story captures the spirit of curiosity, determination, and growth that defines the scholar experience.
As I enter the final stages of my degree, and in particular, the final stages of writing my thesis, I find myself reflecting almost daily on the journey that led me to this point. And so, I wanted to share these thoughts with the wider Lutfia Rabbani Foundation family, which has been my foundation (excuse the pun) throughout these last few months.
As I write these words from Amman, where I have returned to attend my younger brother’s high school graduation, I think back to my own graduation from school almost a decade ago. It reminded me of a younger version of myself; an idealist and an optimist with grand ideas of making the world a better place. In some ways, those parts of me have not changed at all. At the same time, harsh realities all around us have made it difficult to cling to that youthful hopefulness. Nonetheless, I do my best to hold on to my optimism. When I wake up in the morning, I remind myself why I am here—to earn my degree and be able to benefit those in my community, and beyond, who need it the most.
Notwithstanding the occasional challenges, this year has been filled with unforgettable highs. I have lovely memories from cycling up to Scheveningen (which still remains the singular Dutch word I can confidently say that I can correctly pronounce) whenever things have gotten a bit overwhelming. Indeed, it has been wonderful to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the Netherlands this past year, even though I have only barely managed to scratch the surface!
If I may, at this juncture, give some advice to future scholars: while your programme will no doubt be your number one priority (I often joke that I am married to mine), make sure you take in all that this remarkable country has to offer, and immerse yourself in its culture.
You will find, not only that people appreciate it immensely when you try to embrace their culture, but also that the experience as a whole becomes much more rewarding.
Another standout moment from the past year was the privilege of being invited to speak at the MENA Trade Dinner. I still feel incredibly humbled by the overwhelmingly kind response to the short address I gave, and I will cherish the plethora of insightful discussions I had with many of the attendees that night. Yet another highlight was the pleasure of attending the signing of the renewal of the Leiden University Fund – Lutfia Rabbani Foundation scholarship agreement. Being a part of celebrating the partnership between the Fund, the Foundation and the University was a truly special moment.
And it made me think about the role that scholarships have played in shaping my own educational career. I still remember arriving to a new school in Amman in the winter of 2005 (my first time seeing snow!)—having moved with my family from warm Sharjah—and sitting entrance exams in Arabic, English and mathematics. Those entrance exams earned me not only a spot at the school, but also a scholarship, which, through my academic performance, I was able to extend year after year.
After I graduated school, another scholarship opened the door for me to attend the University of Leeds to complete a bachelor’s degree in law. That was a truly life-changing experience. At Leeds, I had the privilege of being taught by an alumna of the same programme I am now almost about to complete, and—bringing the journey full circle—the person who wrote my recommendation letter for this scholarship!
This is all to say that I could not have made it to where I am today without the kindness and generosity of so many. I am deeply indebted to everyone who has helped me advance my education. Among that long list, no doubt, are my parents, who have constantly strived to put mine and my siblings’ education above all else. Thank you.
On a final note, I wish to share a quote by the late King Hussein, who once said that
“peace comes from understanding”—a result that can only be furthered by the twin catalysts of education and cultural exchange.
Christina de Korte in Egypt
Would you also like to benefit from our Travel Grants? Our applications are open all year! Find out more about the application procedure and criteria here
In 2022 I came to Egypt for the first time to follow the Middle Eastern Bachelor Program at the Netherlands Flemish Language Institute in Cairo (NVIC). After completing my studies at the NVIC, I stayed in Egypt for four more months to dive into local techniques and work as an artist in residence. I kept finding a typical Egyptian textile that was asking for my attention, namely khayamiya. Khayamiya – derived from the Arabic word for tent, namely khayma – is an appliqué technique, predominantly used for making big handmade tents. Nowadays, tents made of khayamiya are still used for different purposes, for example, during events such as weddings and funerals, or iftars during Ramadan. The technique is also used on a smaller scale for objects such as pillow covers, and can be created through other means, such as machine-sewn or (digitally) printed.
From January 2025 until the beginning of May 2025 I returned to Egypt to conduct research for my research master’s thesis Let the Textile Speak: Egyptian Khayamiya Through the Streets of Cairo. Through the support of the travel grant of the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation, I was able to cover my travel costs to Egypt, but also the travel expenses during my stay. In this research, I focus on Egyptian khayamiya and its contemporary usages before and during Ramadan. By following the routes of various types of khayamiya through Cairo’s streets and taking courses in the Street of the Tentmakers to learn the technique, I analyse how khayamiya dresses up the city, and invites people to interact with it. This interdisciplinary approach between textiles, heritage, material religion, and (art-)history makes it possible to let the textile speak.
In addition to delving into collecting the data for my research, I was able to take my Egyptian-Arabic to another level since most of my respondents were Arabic speakers. Although my Arabic is not fluent, I was able to talk with many tentmakers, farrashin (the people who rent and build the tents), and other people related to khayamiya. In my experience, Egyptians create a very welcoming environment to learn Arabic, since the majority of people are extremely patient and willing to help.
It was an unforgettable experience to be in Egypt while seeing the preparations for Ramadan and the whole month of Ramadan. My enthusiasm for Egypt and khayamiya is not finished after this research period in Cairo, and I hope to return soon to extend this research by looking at the other usages of the textile that I encountered. During my stay, I was able to give two lectures and a workshop at the NVIC where I was working as a guest researcher. In the coming period, I will continue with these activities in the Netherlands on different occasions to share what I learned in the Street of the Tentmakers from my khayamiya teacher Ahmed, and share my enthusiasm for khayamiya and Egypt!
Marieke Den Ouden in Morocco
Image 7: Photo by: Chuan-Yun, Hsieh. Visiting the Mothership in Tanger. All other images by Marieke den Ouden in Taza and the surrounding.
Would you also like to benefit from our Travel Grants? Our applications are open all year! Find out more about the application procedure and criteria here
A different country, a different continent – I didn’t know where I would live for the next seven weeks, which family I’d stay with, what language would be spoken, how I should dress, or what exactly we would be doing.
Thanks to the Lutfia Rabbani Foundation, I had the freedom to fully prepare and embrace the unknown.
During my time in Morocco, I learned by living differently and by experiencing things in a new context. From Africa, I looked toward Europe; from within an Islamic culture, I reflected on a Christian and more secular society.
I also started thinking about migration, borders, and the quiet power of a passport – my passport – and the political decisions behind it. Why can I stay here without a visa for three months, while the same access isn’t granted to Moroccan citizens? I reflected on the value of money: who determines it? The fragility of promises and the risks of miscommunication came up often. Many of the places we visited had previously hosted foreign guests like us – people who offered hope for collaboration or a return visit, but who often couldn’t fulfill those expectations. This made me more cautious about what I said. And I became increasingly aware of our consumer behavior in the Netherlands.
For my art project, I specifically wanted to work beyond the classroom. That’s why I connected with Asmaa from Au Grain de Sésame, a social enterprise that develops innovative, sustainable products in collaboration with local craftswomen. She trains women to become financially independent. Asmaa was a valuable partner in this new country and unfamiliar culture. Asmaa’s work – combining craft, innovation, and economic independence – was truly inspiring.
I realized how challenging it is to work as a designer in a post-colonial context. What is appropriate? What is the unspoken visual language? And how do you collaborate on equal footing?
This experience shaped my way of thinking. It helped me understand how art can be a powerful tool for education and dialogue. Going beyond borders and embracing discomfort became an invitation to challenge myself, broaden my perspective, and connect deeply with others across cultures.
'Jordan has astounding natural beauty. Wadi Rum truly looks like Mars. And you can really float in the Dead Sea. It is not a marketing story.'
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Living and working in Jordan has been a rewarding experience so far. I have been here now for a month and a half. I live in Jabal Al-Weibdeh, Amman’s artistic centre that houses many other expats as well. My first month here was during Ramadan. During this holy month of fasting, Jordanians tended to evade the streets while the sun was out. Each day after sundown, restaurants were stacked, especially in the downtown area of the city, where tables were laid out with water and dates to break the fast. Although, I enjoyed the spiritual calm of these weeks, I was grateful for my internship to provide some business.
I work at the Al Quds Center for Political Studies, a small thinktank ran by Palestinian Jordanians. Through the countless conversations with my colleagues, I learned a great deal on Jordanian politics and the ins and outs of the region’s international relations. I also became more aware of the dynamics of the Israeli Palestinian conflict and the ongoing Gaza War. So far, I worked on the Center’s fundraising, communications and administration. The Center also hosts frequent workshops on timely issues in the MENA’s politics. A few weeks ago, the workshop was about Syria’s new regime and how it deals with the country’s minorities. Recently, I gave a presentation on political participation of youth in the Netherlands at the Center. The presentation was attended by many politically active Jordanian youth and it was illuminating to hear about their experiences engaging in Jordanian politics.
During the weekends, I often went to see the country’s many highlights. Jordan has astounding natural beauty. Wadi Rum truly looks like Mars. And you can really float in the Dead Sea. It is not a marketing story. And Petra is a must-see, that will leave anyone who exists the mountain city wondering: ‘How did they build this place?’
'My six weeks in Oman were a transformative experience... [it] broadened my clinical skills but also enriched my understanding of cultural diversity in healthcare'.
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From November 11th to December 20th, 2024, I had the privilege of completing a six-week elective in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH) in Muscat, Oman. This experience offered me the opportunity to step outside the familiar Dutch healthcare system and immerse myself in the medical practices and cultural norms of the Middle East. My aim was to gain clinical experience in a well-developed healthcare setting while also deepening my understanding of the cultural and social aspects that influence patient care in this region.
The clinical aspect of my elective was both challenging and rewarding. At SQUH, I was actively involved in various departments, including the emergency gynecology unit, operating theaters, labor wards, and outpatient clinics. My daily activities included preparing patient cases, conducting physical examinations, assisting in surgeries, and contributing to treatment plans under the supervision of specialists. The structured healthcare system, inspired by the British model, provided a unique learning environment.
The hospital environment reflected a strong blend of modernity and tradition. Most healthcare professionals were highly trained, with many having completed part of their education in countries like the UK or Canada. However, cultural and religious values played a significant role in patient care. For instance, male gynecologists were rarely involved in physical examinations or deliveries due to cultural norms, and consent from patients or their families was essential for their involvement.
Language was another important aspect of my experience. While English was the primary language among staff, Arabic was often used with patients. My ability to understand and speak Arabic greatly enhanced my interactions with patients and colleagues, allowing me to build trust and communicate more effectively.
Living in Oman was a cultural adventure. I stayed at the Sultan Qaboos University off-campus residence, which was well-maintained and conveniently located. The facilities were excellent, and the staff ensured a comfortable stay for all international students.
Exploring Oman during my free time was an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty of the country, with its majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and vast deserts, was breathtaking.
Adapting to the cultural norms and healthcare environment required some adjustment. Gender segregation was noticeable in some areas, such as the hospital cafeteria and certain university spaces. Additionally, the dress code for women, which included wearing an abaya or a long coat, was different from what I was accustomed to in the Netherlands.
From a professional perspective, there was a strong emphasis on preparation and active participation. Morning rounds often included in-depth questioning by consultants, which motivated me to study hospital protocols and guidelines in detail. This expectation, while challenging, greatly enhanced my medical knowledge and confidence.
My six weeks in Oman were a transformative experience. The elective not only broadened my clinical skills but also enriched my understanding of cultural diversity in healthcare. I left with a deeper appreciation for the integration of modern medical practices and traditional values, and the experience strengthened my adaptability as a future physician.
I would highly recommend this elective to any medical student seeking a combination of professional growth, cultural immersion, and personal development
Click here to find out more about Eline Koopman’s Travel scholar experience in Jordan! Would you also like to benefit from our Travel Grants? Our applications are open all year! Find out more about the application procedure and criteria here
'The importance of community, seeing people as people rather than the label that society has put on them'
We have the pleasure of hearing about Eline Koopman’s travel experience in Jordan as a recipient of the Travel Grant. Her visit encompassed mainly Amman but also Petra and other smaller places. Eline, a dedicated Dutch master’s student, embarked on a remarkable journey that allowed her to delve into Jordanian culture and heritage.
Since September, my journey has led me to the heart of Jordan, where I’ve been immersed in a training program focused on social work with migrants and refugees. Beyond the academic rigors, Jordan has offered me a wealth of cultural and natural wonders to explore. From the ancient marvels of Petra to the bustling souks of Amman, every corner of this country has something unique to offer.
Besides delving into the complexities of humanitarian aid and its positioning in Jordan, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in Jordan’s rich cultural tapestry. From wandering the ancient city of Petra to navigating the vibrant streets of Amman’s souks, I’ve been enchanted by the sights, sounds, and flavors of this country. Even interactions with taxi drivers have become cultural lessons, with hand gestures simplifying the process of ordering a typical Jordanian coffee.
At the German Jordanian University in Amman, where I’ve been attending hands-on courses, every lesson feels like a direct connection to the realities faced by refugees and the broader community in Jordan and the MENA region. Topics such as Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, Refugees, and Protracted Displacement & Durable Solutions have provided invaluable insights, bridging academic theory with real-world experiences shared by local teachers, NGO workshops, and even taxi drivers.
In addition to my academic pursuits, I’ve embraced the challenge of learning Arabic. While challenging at first, the ability to navigate everyday scenarios, such as grocery shopping in the souks, has been very helpful. The warmth of the people here has made this journey even more delightful, from learning traditional recipes to experiencing the unique greeting of “marhaba tain” that immediately makes one feel welcome. Yet, beyond the beauty of Jordan’s landscapes and the richness of its culture, it’s the people who have left the most lasting impression on me. Whether it’s the hospitality of Jordanian families or the resilience of the women I’ve met at the Iraq Al-Amir Women Cooperative Society, every interaction has been a showcase of inspiration to me.
One of the most poignant experiences has been my visits to the refugee camps of Zaatari and Al-Azraq. Here, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by those living in displacement, from gendered issues to the struggles of Syrian children who have never known any home other than the camp. These experiences have reinforced the importance of community and genuine connection in humanitarian work. Moreover, through field training courses and meetings with organizations such as the UNHCR and local NGOs, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of Jordan’s humanitarian landscape. These encounters have underscored the resilience of communities in the face of adversity and the importance of seeing individuals beyond societal labels.
Thanks to the support of the Luftia Rabbani Foundation’s travel grant, my journey in Jordan has extended beyond the confines of a classroom. It’s been a journey of personal growth, cultural discovery, and above all, a deepening connection with the people and the land that have welcomed me with open arms. As I prepare to embark on the next phase of my journey, the lessons learned and the connections made in Jordan will continue to guide me. For in this land of contrasts and complexities, I’ve found not just education, but a profound sense of belonging. Jordan has truly become my second home.
Click here to find out more about Judith van Grafhorst’s Travel scholar experience in Palestine! Would you also like to benefit from our Travel Grants? Our applications are open all year! Find out more about the application procedure and criteria here
"Ramallah is for Palestine what The Hague is to the Netherlands"
We have the pleasure of hearing about Judith van Grafhorst’s travel experience in Palestine as a recipient of the Travel Grant. Her visit encompassed two distinct yet captivating locations: Ramallah and Jerusalem. Judith, a dedicated Dutch medical student specializing in Neurosurgery, embarked on a remarkable journey that allowed her to explore various medical residencies in different departments, offering a unique perspective on her time spent in the region.
In January I flew to Tel Aviv and then traveled to Ramallah. Ramallah is for Palestine like The Hague is to the Netherlands; it is the political capital of the West Bank. Ramallah has different types of hospitals; private hospitals and government-owned hospitals. Eventually, I decided to volunteer at the Palestine Medical Complex which is a government-owned hospital in the center of the city. I volunteered at the General Surgery Department which is the biggest department and where patients come in every day. The surgeons and residents of that department are working the around the clock to get all the work done with insufficient facilities and recourses. How they work under the pressure of an endless number of patients, and the available recourses, is truly remarkable. I have learned to be creative, cope with stress, and still try to be positive. This is an experience that has learned me lessons that I will remember for the rest of my life.
My time in the Palestine Medical Complex is over, and I have just moved to Jerusalem to volunteer in Hadassah Ein Kerem at the Neurosurgery department. This is a totally different kind of hospital. It is weird to think that these two hospitals are just an hour apart (if the Checkpoint won’t take so long) but differ so much. In Hadassah, the medical practice is of a more academic and higher level. It is more comparable to what I am used to from the hospitals in the Netherlands. However, there are big differences as well. The ward is diverse, you can find all kinds of patients. Patients with different nationalities, languages (Hebrew, Arabic, English, and Spanish), and religions. Therefore, it is such an interesting environment to work in.
Introducing some of the Arab Ambassadors serving in the Netherlands who personify the Euro-Arab dialogue
"What is one piece of advice you would give to young women?"
“Don’t be afraid of taking risks and making mistakes, it is only by “trial and error” that you will find your true self and make your own achievements.”
– H.E. Sahar Ghanem, Yemen
“Be the best of yourself and do not fear making mistakes. Mistakes happen, and we should learn from them.”
– H.E. Rawan Sulaiman, Palestine
“The first thing that crosses my mind when it comes to passing on some helpful advice to any woman, is getting a better education and a vocational training. This will not only increase her knowledge or sharpen her skills in specified area of activity but enable her to realize her potential, empower herself and contribute meaningfully to her society. Secondly, she has to be aware of her ability to shape her society given that women represent approximately half of the population. Being mothers, educators and mentors, her contribution is essential and crucial in different ways, including economic, social and cultural. It’s important for her to recognize her true worth and to have confidence in her ability to drive positive changes for a more equal and just society. In my book, confidence is a must for her to peruse her objective without seeking to be in competition with man. She has rather to value her own qualities, skills and the added value she brings to achieve common objectives of men and women in their societies. Determination is a crucial element for women to succeed in their personal and professional lives, but support and solidarity from other women is equally important. When women stand together and support each other, they can create a powerful network of empowerment and inspiration that can help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.”
– H.E. Salima Abdelhak, Algeria
"What progress have you seen in gender equality in your field of work?"
“Today the 24th of June 2023 we are celebrating the first anniversary of UN International Day of Women in Diplomacy. That highlights the recognition of the role women play in diplomacy and encourage all nations to take measurable actions into advancing women’s active participation in all fields and at all levels of diplomacy. It might not be a big step but it is a much needed one to keep the momentum alive.”
– H.E. Sahar Ghanem, Yemen
“I am proud of my team at the Palestinian Mission in The Hague and I am happy to see that we have so many women working with us, who bring with them rigor, diligence, creativity, efficiency, passion and a lot of dedication and commitment.”
– H.E. Rawan Sulaiman, Palestine
“Indeed, we have much to celebrate when it comes to women’s achievements in diplomacy in recent years. Tracking women’s involvement in Algerian diplomacy over the last two decades, it is encouraging to see more and more Algerian women choosing to work in the field of diplomacy whereas in the past, they rather chose education, medicine and justice where they are widely represented. And I can safely tell that our Foreign Service is verging steadily on more equitable representation within its apparatus by supporting women and encouraging them in their careers. Accordingly, Algerian women, succeeded, on their own merits, to hold prestigious managerial positions at the Ministry of foreign affairs and to brilliantly serve, overseas, as Ambassadors, Consuls Generals, Consuls, Counsellors, experts, international civil servants and so on. At an international level, Women have an increasingly presence in international arenas and have proven they are worth the leadership positions they hold in international organizations such as the United Nations, African Union, Arabe league to name a few. They have demonstrated their ability to make important decisions, solve complex problems and lead teams effectively. Women leaders in international arenas have also pushed forward important issues such as gender equality, human rights, environmental protection and international peace and security. They have used their position to make their voices heard and defend the interests of the most vulnerable people in the world. Having said this, I think that women across the globe still have long way to go to attain full equality in diplomacy. However, it has been paved by female elders who had fewer means than us today. Let’s therefore continue their ideal confidently.”
– H.E. Salima Abdelhak, Algeria
"Can you name us one woman that inspired you and why?"
“Absolutely my Mom, Suad Khan! My father was an expat working abroad and my mom was a working mother taking care of three children by her own. She had a big responsibility inside and outside home but that never undermined her will and ability of taking care of our small details. I remember her every end of the month, salary time, bringing me the little stories and novels I used to love reading when I was a teenager. I haven’t seen other moms in my surrounding doing that! She was self-educated but she always told me that I had to study abroad at the University of Oxford (the British colony influence)! I haven’t studied in Oxford (yet) but I believe she is so proud of my choices in life!”
– H.E. Sahar Ghanem, Yemen
“Late Ambassador Samia Bamieh was the role model that I looked up to. She was an extraordinary woman: a grassroots activist, a diplomat and a staunch advocate for women’s rights and Palestinian national rights. Samia always challenged and encouraged me along with my other colleagues to express our opinions and to be our best selves. She was also very supportive on the personal level, she always ensured that as a working woman I also took care of my family and found a balance between my work and personal life.”
– H.E. Rawan Sulaiman, Palestine
“Actually, I can proudly mention late Belmihoub Zerdani Meriem, an Algerian fighter, lawyer and feminist. She is known for her longstanding record of patriotism, devotion and her eternal strive for women rights, wherever she served domestically or internationally. In fact, she is one of our iconic female independence militant. Student in the faculty of Law, she responded spontaneously to the call of the National Liberation Front to serve as a nurse during our National Liberation war, for which she was jailed in France alongside many other Algerian females. At the independence of Algeria, Mrs Belmihoub became a member of the Constituent Assembly between 1962–1963. She contributed to a series of articles published by the daily newspaper “Le Peuple” in August 1963″, addressing the question ‘Is there an Algerian women problem?’. She left politics for the law, and became a lawyer at the Algiers Bar. She was appointed Minister Advisor to Legal and Administrative Affairs to the Head of Government then senator. She campaigned Throughout her career to defend the right of women, their representativeness in political or other bodies, and against the discrimination they undergo. She mobilized against the family code, protesting against the discriminatory provisions of this code towards women. She then participated in the Foundation of the Algerian family planning association. She tirelessly continued her advocacy for women rights after being elected as expert in the United Nations Committee against Discrimination against Women in 2003 for many mandates. She Held the significant role of Vice-Chair of Committee in 2012. I had the privilege to cross her way and interact with her while serving at the Permanent Mission of Algeria to the United Nations in New York and I was impressed by her display of professionalism, confidence, determination, and solidarity with women. Mrs. Belmihoub Zerdani departed from this world 02 years ago, but her legacy is still out here to teach us, especially women, the genuine sense of those tributes.”
– H.E. Salima Abdelhak, Algeria
Click here to find out more about Aisha Hassan’s Travel scholar experience through The Middle East! Would you also like to benefit from our Travel grant? Find out more about the application procedure and criteria here
"Of the total 7000 km, we cycled 1500 km in Jordan and Egypt to explore and document regenerativeagriculture practices from a farmer's perspective, with the aim of gaining a bottom-up understanding ofwhat regenerative agriculture means."
the grant helped a lot to cover some of the costs as we traveled through the Middle East. Although we mainly travel by bike, we had to take a flight from Athens to Amman because we couldn’t cycle through Syria. Also from Agaba (Jordan) to Nuweiba (Egypt), we had to take a boat to cross the Red Sea. We also needed a flight from Cairo to Nairobi because we decided not to travel through Sudan due to the current instability in Sudan. The grant also helped us stay longer in Jordan and Egypt to extend our visas. We stayed mainly with farmers and hosts, so in terms of accommodation, we were largely covered, but staying longer required more costs for food.
The Lutfia Rabbani grant has enabled me to travel to spend more time in Jordan and Egypt and because of that, we were able to grow our network in the Middle East and meet various people in the field of regenerative agriculture. Learning from different pioneers in the Middle East and sharing their stories with the world. I believe that these networks will remain and will be important for the further development of the Cycle to Farms project.
we are building a great social community by visiting different people in the field of sustainable agriculture, from policy makers to farmer activists to journalists and filmmakers. We connected different actors in the field. For example, when we were in Jordan visiting FadoulKawar in Madaba, we invited the Dutch agricultural attaché for Jordan and Egypt and two Wageningen researchers on water management to the farm. This led to a very interesting exchange of knowledge on which an article was published. More recently, we decided to broadcast our trip in the form of a documentary supported by a Palestinian-Canadian filmmaker whom we met during our trip to Amman. She has been our mentor for the past two months and has helped us translate our findings into a future documentary.
There were unexpected difficulties. When traveling in Egypt, we encountered more difficulties than when traveling in Jordan. In Jordan, the only difficulty we encountered was having to go back and forth to the police station for 5 days in a row to get our visa. Jordan is considered the Arab world for
beginners and we really agree that it was very easy to adjust to the environment. The people in Jordan were extremely helpful and understanding. Egypt, on the other hand, was not the easiest country to travel in. Unknown taxes surfaced from the moment we took the ferry into Egypt. Both of our passports were taken without explanation for the duration of the trip. When we wanted to buy a SIM card, the shopkeeper tried to scam us by charging us 3 times the normal price… We were also not allowed to ride bicycles in South Sinai. In fact, the hardest part was that with every activity we tried to do, unknown charges popped up. However, after a few difficult moments, you quickly learn to navigate and adapt to the situation
Click here to find out more about Mohammad Almazaien’s scholarship experience in Maastricht! Would you also like to benefit from our MSR scholar? Find out more about the application procedure and criteria here
"I addressed the importance of dialogue between scientific disciplines, organizations, cultures, and ideologies to find solutions for the complex problems of our world."
I am Mohammad Almezaien, I am from Egypt and I am the 2019 MSR Scholar. I completed my Bachelor studies in Pharmacy in Egypt. With the MSR scholarship I was able to complete the second year of my Master’s research programme in Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience from Maastricht University.
The year I obtained the MSR scholarship was a year of personal and professional growth. During that year, I did a research internship at the Centre for Human Drug Research; a fast-growing clinical research organization in Leiden. During the internship, I worked on a clinical trial that conducted a multitude of studies aimed at evaluating the effects of a novel pharmaceutical compound. The compound was aimed at treating vascular dementia. The experience pushed my boundaries as I crossed disciplines and learned new skills. I was also acquainted with the Dutch working environment, and extended my formal and informal networks.
Apart from my academic and professional achievements, 2019/2020 had more special events. I was able to bring together my Egyptian family and the Venezuelan and Dutch family of my partner. Despite the obvious differences, it was beautiful to see that an accepting and respectful environment creates a space for dialogue, and similarities become more salient in our minds than differences.
And finally, it was a pleasure joining LFR in some of the events they organized. I was asked to give a speech at the 11th MENA trade dinner, in which I addressed the importance of dialogue between scientific disciplines, organizations, cultures, and ideologies to find solutions for the complex problems of our world. I am grateful for all the opportunities that were given to me by the foundation. Needless to say, it was an honor to meet the Rabbani family and all members of the foundation.
