Tarwida

Join renowned chef Fadi Kattan, a passionate advocate for Palestinian cuisine and author of 'Bethlehem.' He shares his rich culinary heritage, inspired by family traditions and his Teta's kitchen. Fadi discusses the significance of local ingredients and the challenges of preserving culinary identity amid political struggles. He explores the blend of tradition and innovation in his restaurants and emphasizes the power of food activism in celebrating Palestinian culture. Fadi’s journey highlights the emotional connections we have with food and the importance of community and storytelling.

What does it mean to create art under a brutal colonial system? To make beauty in the midst of struggle? In this episode, Palestinian visual artist Nabil Anani reflects on the First Intifada and the experimental spirit it sparked. He shares why art must be rooted in its environment, how creativity becomes a political act, and what it means to shape a visual language that holds memory, place, and defiance at its core.This episode is hosted by Tala Elissa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Dima Sharif. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. This conversation was recorded on April 4, 2025 and is conducted in Arabic. You can find the English transcript through this link. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Nabil Anani on Instagram @na.ananiCheck Anani’s artwork on ZaywehLearn more about the Palestinian Museum’s new edition of New Visions Watch Anani working on his latest pieceBuy Anani’s book Palestine, Land and PeopleBuy Anani’s book The Land and IBuy Anani’s memoir Emerging to the Light

With each stitch and surface, Naqsh Collective reimagines the boundaries between craft, architecture, and memory. In this episode, we sit with Nisreen, Nermeen and Shireen Abu Dail, the sisters behind the collective, to reflect on what it means to carry Palestinian identity through form and material— exploring the politics of craft, the aesthetics of resistance, and how their embroidered narratives give new life to heritage in diaspora.This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Dima Sharif. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. This conversation was recorded on March 12, 2025.Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Naqsh on Instagram @naqshcollectiveVisit Naqsh Collective’s websiteLearn more about ShawlLearn more about Jhazek ya Shams bridal chestLearn more about Akka’s Jump New York Times’ article featuring Naqsh: A Panorama of DesignFollow Tiraz on Instagram @tirazcentreJoin Naqsh’s collective work to preserve Palestinian embroidery 

When Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah left after 43 days of working around the clock under constant bombardment in Gaza’s emergency rooms, filmmakers Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi didn’t think twice before deciding to document his story. In this episode, they discuss A State of Passion, their latest film capturing Dr. Abu Sittah’s harrowing experience. They also reflect on their previous works, Stitching Palestine and Aida Returns. Through their work, Carol and Muna explore the power of film as a tool for advocacy, bearing witness, and preserving Palestinian narratives.This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. This conversation was recorded on February 15, 2025.Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the I forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Carol Mansour (@mansourcarol) and Muna Khalidi (@muna_khalidi) on Instagram Follow State of Passion (@state.of.passion) on InstagramFollow Aida Returns on Instagram (@aida_returns) and visit the websiteFollow Stitching Palestine (@stitching_palestine) 

In Part II of our episode with acclaimed multidisciplinary artist, Amer Shomali, we delve into The Palestinian Museum and the value it holds in conserving Palestinian arts, culture, and heritage at a time when Palestinian heritage is being erased. Throughout, we discuss the ways Shomali has challenged traditional museum structures, creatively honored the people of Gaza, and launched traveling exhibitions, allowing the diaspora to share Gaza’s story around the world.This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Our associate producer is Zeena Shehadeh. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. This conversation was recorded on January 12, 2025, and is the second of a two-part episode. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the I forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, and hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling out this short survey, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Amer Shomali on Instagram @amershomaliVisit Amer’s websiteFollow The Palestinian Museum on Instagram @palmuseum and visit their website Learn more about and participate in the traveling exhibition Gaza Remains the StoryLearn more about This is Not an ExhibitionContribute to or learn more about The Palestinian Museum Digital Archive

From his acclaimed film The Wanted 18 to his multimedia art featuring the iconic Leila Khaled and the Visit Palestine poster, Amer Shomali takes us through his creative journey with all its twists and turns. In this episode, we explore how he weaves humor, animation, history, and art—not just to document struggles, but to reimagine liberated futures. This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa Bibi. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna. Intro music by Terez Sliman. This conversation was recorded on January 12, 2025, and is the first of a two-part episode. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Amer Shomali on Instagram @amershomaliVisite Amer’s websiteLearn more about The Icon- Leila Khaled Learn more about Visit Palestine poster Watch The Wanted 18 trailerFollow The Palestinian Museum on Instagram @palmuseum

Maysoon Zayid doesn’t just tell jokes—she breaks barriers. In this episode of Tarwida, the trailblazing comedian, writer, and disability advocate talks about navigating the world as a disabled Palestinian woman in such critical times. With her signature wit and raw honesty, Maysoon reminds us that laughter can be a powerful weapon—and that some things are too important not to joke about.This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research and copywriting by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna.This episode was recorded on December 21st, 2024. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Maysoon Zayid on Instagram @maysoonzayidWatch Maysoon’s 2014 Ted Talk Buy Shiny Misfits through AmazonListen to Shiny Misfits on AudibleFollow Dean Obediallah on Instagram @deanobeidallahLearn more about the history behind New York’s Arab American Comedy Festival Book Maysoon for your event or workshop through this linkThe views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the points of view of the Tarwida Podcast, its hosts, or its team. While we value open dialogue and diverse perspectives, these conversations are not an endorsement or representation of our personal opinions.

In this episode of Tarwida, we talk to Palestinian singer Rola Azar, whose music beautifully balances the past and present, blending the traditional with the modern. For Rola, music isn’t just art—it’s life. She shares memories of growing up in Nazareth, where she’d lose herself in the melodies of the city’s neighborhoods, learning not just to sing but to uncover the stories behind the songs. Join us as Rola reflects on her journey, the power of music in preserving Palestinian identity, and what inspires her to carry Palestine in every note.This episode is hosted by Tala Elissa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa and it is co-produced by Lobna Monieb. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna.This episode was recorded on 2nd of October, 2024 and is conducted in Arabic. For our non-Arabic-speaking listeners, you can find an English transcript through this link. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Rola Azar on Instagram @rola.azarSubscribe to Rola’s YouTube channel Listen to Ikhla’a Na’alaka ya MousaListen to IntathiriLearn more about Tawfiq Zayyad- Sumud, crucifixion, and poetry: The life of Palestinian leader Tawfiq ZayyadWatch Alternative Silence by Le trio JubranListen to Shamali Tarwida by Al Funoun Dance TroupeThe views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the points of view of the Tarwida Podcast, its hosts, or its team. While we value open dialogue and diverse perspectives, these conversations are not an endorsement or representation of our personal opinions.

Throughout her works, Dana Barqawi employs diverse media including photography, paint, gold, and flowers to craft a vivid portrayal of Palestine. She seeks to deconstruct biased narratives and colonial histories, reclaiming the agency of Palestinians. While maintaining a captivating aesthetic, the artist reveals the painful story of a colonial past and the ongoing struggle for justice. Tune in to discover what drives Dana Barqawi and how she views art as a powerful tool for decolonization.This episode is hosted by Afaf Shawwa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa and it is co-produced by Lobna Monieb. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna.This episode was recorded on October 1st, 2024. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Follow Dana Barqawi on Instagram: @dana_barqawiBuy Dana Barqawi’s printsVisit Dana’s studio by leaving her a message through this linkShe Refused her White Man’s BurdenIt takes a VillageThe Palestine Poster Project ArchivesHow the sun of Palestine reached a Black Panther in jailFollow Brahim Jawabreh on Instagram: @brahimjawabrehgalleryFollow Al Barakeh Wheat on Instagram: @albarakehwheatBefore Their Diaspora: A Photographic History of the Palestinians 1876-1948Intro song by Rima Khsheish (a cover for Sayyed Darwish’s El Shayaleen)The views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the points of view of the Tarwida Podcast, its hosts, or its team. While we value open dialogue and diverse perspectives, these conversations are not an endorsement or representation of our personal opinions.

Join us as we explore the deep, mystical, and symbolic connection between the sea and Palestinians, particularly Gazans. In this episode, we meet filmmaker Asma Bseiso, whose latest work, The Seven Waves, holds profound historical significance as the last film to document Gaza before the genocide. The film follows the stories of Beesan, a professional rower, and Muhammad a fisherman and lifeguard. Through narrating their stories, Asma shares with us her boundless love for the sea and its people, her passion for filmmaking, and her unwavering devotion to Palestine.This episode is hosted by Tala Elissa. Tarwida’s lead producer is Tala Elissa and it is co-produced by Lobna Monieb. Our executive producer is Zina Jardaneh. Social media by Leen Karadsheh. Research by Nadia Roeske. Branding by Sara Sukhun. Theme music includes excerpts from Clarissa Bitar, The Popular Art Centre - مركز الفن الشعبي & Rim Banna.This episode was recorded on August 17th, 2024. Tarwida is a series of conversations that bring Palestinian arts, culture and heritage to the forefront. We hear from artists including writers, filmmakers, musicians, architects, culinary practitioners and more about their very own Palestine.  In a nutshell, if you want to know more about (Creative) Palestine, this is the place to be. Follow us on @tarwidapodcastIf you have been listening to the Tarwida Podcast, we want to know who you are, hear your thoughts and feedback. We welcome any suggestions for next guests or topics!  Help us understand you better by filling this short survey linked below, it won’t take more than 5 minutes. We promise you a coffee next time we see you. Thank you!--Relevant links and Resources: Asma Bseiso’s instagram @asmabseisoWatch The Seven Waves trailerWatch Lissa Aisha’s trailerListen to Yusor Hamed on SpotifyThe Palestinian Museum’s exhibition about Palestine’s seaThe views and opinions expressed by guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the points of view of the Tarwida Podcast, its hosts, or its team. While we value open dialogue and diverse perspectives, these conversations are not an endorsement or representation of our personal opinions.