Transformative Journey of Ouafaa Mhadi
Ouafaa Mhadi's inspiring journey from the vibrant streets of Casablanca to the bustling environment of the United Kingdom illustrates her remarkable resilience and adaptability. This journey, which commenced in the late 1990s, has been characterized by a harmonious blend of academic pursuits, entrepreneurial ventures, and cultural diplomacy, all aimed at promoting and celebrating Moroccan heritage abroad. Through her diverse and impactful engagements, she has successfully forged significant connections between Morocco and Britain, enriching the cultural tapestry of both nations.
Born and raised in Casablanca, Ouafaa took her first steps toward a global adventure in 1997, shortly after completing her secondary education. Her initial foray into the professional world came through her work at the Moulay Rachid municipality, where she laid the groundwork for her future endeavors. Her first international destination was the Netherlands, which opened the door to a series of relocations that included a stint in France, where her mother resided, before returning to the Netherlands for an extended period. This multifaceted journey ultimately brought her to the UK in 2006, a pivotal moment that would significantly shape her personal and professional narrative.
Empowerment Through Education and Community Engagement
Upon her arrival in Britain, Ouafaa faced her first major hurdle: the English language. Recognizing the importance of mastering the language for her academic aspirations, she dedicated six months to learning English, a commitment that paved the way for her subsequent studies in interior design at the prestigious School of Fine Arts in London. After three years of dedicated training, she graduated and began her professional journey in design. However, the demands of family life soon necessitated a shift in her career path. Balancing the responsibilities of motherhood with her professional ambitions led her to transition into translation, a field that provided her with the flexibility she needed.
Ouafaa's work as a translator not only honed her linguistic skills but also offered her invaluable experiences in humanitarian contexts. Her contributions became particularly pronounced during the Syrian refugee crisis, where she played a vital role in assisting refugees with housing, societal integration, and access to essential services. This chapter of her life deepened her commitment to social work, particularly within Arab migrant communities, as she recognized the pressing need for support and advocacy.
After years of dedication to translation, Ouafaa returned to her initial passion for design and, in 2019, established her own interior design company aimed at promoting Moroccan craftsmanship in the UK. However, her entrepreneurial spirit faced significant challenges due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit, which ultimately forced her to close the business. Nevertheless, her determination did not wane; instead, she doubled down on her community efforts during the pandemic, helping women who were victims of violence through translation services and connections to specialized organizations.
Through her community initiatives, Ouafaa also emphasized the importance of preserving language and cultural identity among the children of Arab communities. She organized Arabic classes for children from various nationalities, including Syrians, Egyptians, and Moroccans, adapting to virtual platforms when in-person gatherings became impossible. This experience birthed the "Languages Nest" project, which has since transformed into a multidisciplinary educational and cultural institution offering a range of services, including online English courses, certified translation, and cultural events.
Extending her reach back to Morocco, Ouafaa's institution has collaborated with organizations like the Moroccan Judges Club and the OCP Group to facilitate summer camps and cultural exchanges, thereby strengthening the ties between Moroccan and British cultures. She has also established a branch in Morocco to enhance cultural exchange, focusing on projects that allow British students to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture.
In addition to her entrepreneurial and community endeavors, Ouafaa recently achieved a master’s degree in entrepreneurship in the UK, further fueling her aspirations. Presently, she is developing the "Check in Bliss Morocco" project, which aims to promote Moroccan tourism and culture while attracting British investment. Additionally, she has introduced the "Mobile Moroccan Spa" in the UK, offering wellness experiences that celebrate traditional hammam rituals, thus making Moroccan heritage accessible to a broader audience.
Ouafaa Mhadi's contributions extend to her role as a member of the Academy of Moroccan Women Worldwide and as coordinator of the Independence Women’s Organization in the UK. Her reflections on her journey encapsulate her mission: "What we try to do is serve our country and build bridges between Morocco and Britain," showcasing her unwavering commitment to fostering understanding and collaboration between cultures.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
