Amal

“Everyone wants to be perceived in a positive light but at the same time I'm not looking for anyone’s approval. If you aren't perceived positively find or create spaces where you are, and always remember your existence is your biggest form of resistance.” Amal is a 22 year old Somali-Canadian. She loves trying different foods, doing activities with her friends, and enjoys having deep meaningful conversations with folks. When she’s alone she likes to paint and read. (She actually painted the mural behind her in this photo.) Amal’s favourite quality is “that I am able to constantly self reflect and figure out ways in which I can improve myself. “ The most important things in life to her is having piece of mind and being happy which is a constant process for her. When I asked Amal how she thinks she’s perceived she responded, “To be honest being Muslim is one thing, but being a black muslim woman is the most powerful combination of things and it scares the hell out of people.”

Q&A Feature: 

Where is your favourite place to find yourself?

I love being outdoors. I feel like finding yourself is a process and for me there's really no specific place in which that happens.

What is the best quality in someone else?

I like it when people are genuine with me. I try my best to be a the same way with others because it's very important to nurture genuine relationships.

What is one thing you know for sure?

I know that I am in control of my own life and how I feel about myself.