1. Please share your thoughts about the future of literature..
When did you start writing?
Actually, I’ve been writing since 2014 during the Israeli aggression on Gaza City. What inspired me to write poetry is the necessity to raise awareness about the Palestinian cause and convey a message to the Western world that Palestinians have been suffering since 1948 and we are looking for justice and peace.
2 .The Good and the Bad.
Which is winning nowadays?
I do believe that those who seek love and peace will win in this life because those who seek war will destroy themselves. Peace will make the world a beautiful place full of light and mercy whereas war will make it a horrible and dark place none can endure to live. Throughout my literary journey I’ve passed many good things and people who’ve made me feel like I’m not alone in this world by showing their sympathy and support. I’m a poet, I write poetry about how war affects us as humans and destroys anything beautiful. I write about the suffering of my people for years and how my people starve severely. I wish I could write about the beauty of my country Palestine and share poems of love and peace.
3. How many books have you written
And where can we find your books
I’ve self-published four books, three are poetry books and the fourth is a short novel. The first book I published was ” Gaza Narrates Poetry”, the second ” When Hope Isn’t Enough” , the third ” Stilen Lives” and the last was “Falastin”. I’ve recently published a poetry book with the great poet John P. Portelli called ” The Shadow”.
Most of my books are available on Amazon.
4. The book. E book or Hardcover book
What will be the future?
I’m looking forward to publishing a new book and the title will be ” The Genocide” . It will contain more than 40 poems which I wrote during the ongoing genocide on Gaza city and the horrible experiences I witnessed .
5. A wish for 2025
I wish and only wish Palestinians who have been suffering for ages can restore our legal and humane rights and that peace prevails in this world.
A phrase from your book
” My loyal Cactus, Your thorns are more delicate than the hypocrisy of Humanity”.
Mais je ne m’appuie pas sur ma plaie pour tes baisers.
Je suis l’ascète façonné loin de ton jeûne.
Tu mérites les carillons de tes cloches.
Ensemble, nous nous élevions par les lettres,
Nous éloignant du vertige des miroirs
Vers les hymnes des cercles bohèmes.
Rabbin, je suis, dans la synagogue de tes éclats,
Prêchant parfois, priant ton Talmud.
Je me perds dans tes péchés comme un navire
Englouti par les soupirs de tes prières.
Nulle place pour l’existence pourpre
Dans les replis charbonnés de tes paupières.
Les fautes des odes me portent, îlot après îlot,
Sur les croix tracées par tes mystères.
Tu fus pour moi une voix,
Épanouie en chorales de tes symphobies..
Alors, ravive en moi une flamme et laisse-moi
Compter sept chiffres
Qui me portent en désir,
Pour les rendre ensuite
Morts ou renaissants dans tes écrits.
And I only suffer on the threshold of abandonment. Pains appear to me patiently, But I do not lean on my wound for your kisses. I am the ascetic fashioned far from your fasting. You deserve the chimes of your bells.
Together, we rose through letters, Faring from the vertigo of mirrors Toward the hymns of bohemian circles. Rabbi, I am, in the synagogue of your splendor, Preaching sometimes, praying your Talmud.
I lose myself in your sins like a ship Swallowed by the sighs of your prayers. No place for purple existence In the charred folds of your eyelids. The faults of the odes carry me, island after island, To the crosses traced by your mysteries.
You were a voice for me, Blossoming in the chorus of your symphobias. So, rekindle a flame in me and let me Count seven numbers That carry me with desire, To then make them Dead or reborn in your writings.
Bibliographie
Hassane Ajbouh is a Moroccan writer, critic, and creative writer from Safrou, currently residing in Ibn Ahmed. He holds a degree in Arabic Literature, specializing in Philosophy, and is a educational administrator and high school principal in the Casablanca-Settat region.
His published works include:
– A joint poetry collection “Shado in Love and Life” published by the University of Moroccan Creators.
– A joint short story collection “Marafie” published by the Iraqi magazine Basriatha.
– A joint book “Stories Crossing Continents” published by Dar Scribayb in 2023.
He has also published critical studies on novels and short stories in local and Arab newspapers.
Ajbouh is currently working on several projects, including a poetry collection and a short story collection.
He holds several positions, including:
– Cultural Advisor to the World Organization for Creativity for Peace (London – Morocco branch)
– Editor-in-Chief of Sefrou Cultural Magazine
– Editor-in-Chief of Iqaa’ Al-Adab magazine
– Member of the Board of Directors of several groups, forums, and magazines
– Designer and judge for various literary competitions
His works have been published in numerous national, Arab, and international newspapers and magazines.
In a world where digital skills determine future success, access to quality education is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. My name is Muslima Olimova, a young changemaker from Uzbekistan, and I founded Muslima Academy to create a bridge between global knowledge and ambitious youth, especially girls from Central Asia.
Born and raised in Andijan, I grew up seeing many talented youth who lacked access to resources, mentors, and international opportunities. Despite living in a digital era, many were unaware of online courses, scholarships, or even how to build a strong CV. That’s when I realized that change had to start somewhere—and I chose to be that start.
Muslima Academy is a youth-led educational platform where we offer online courses, career guidance, international certificate programs, and practical tasks that help students build their portfolios. Our mission is clear: empower 10,000+ youth by 2026 with the tools, skills, and global mindset needed for the 21st century.
We offer affordable access to:
Weekly live masterclasses
Scholarship application coaching
CV and motivation letter writing
Public speaking and personal branding
Mentorship and internship opportunities
What makes us unique is our commitment to inclusivity and real-world impact. In just one year, our students have been accepted into global summits, won international competitions, and even launched their own startups.
As a founder, I also work as a community ambassador for Wakelet in Uzbekistan and collaborate with international organizations to bring global education home. The story of Muslima Academy is not just mine—it belongs to every student who dares to dream big.
My dream? That one day, no youth from our region feels left behind in the digital revolution. Muslima Academy is more than an initiative. It’s a movement. And we’re just getting started.
Muslima Olimova is a 17-year-old student of Information Systems and Technologies at Andijan State Technical Institute in Uzbekistan. She is the founder of Muslima Academy, a youth-led initiative that empowers young people — especially girls — through education, digital skills, and access to global opportunities. Muslima is also the Uzbekistan Ambassador for Wakelet, a global educational platform, and her academic and creative work has been published in more than 26 countries. She is passionate about using technology, education, and innovation to uplift communities and inspire the next generation of changemakers.
In a world where women are increasingly stepping into leadership roles and shaping the future, stories like that of Muslima Olimova stand out as powerful examples of courage, vision, and impact. At just 17, Muslima is not only a student of Information Systems and Technologies at Andijan State Technical Institute in Uzbekistan but also the founder of Muslima Academy — an initiative aimed at empowering youth, especially girls, through education, digital skills, and global opportunities.
A Dream That Became a Movement
Muslima Academy was born out of a simple yet powerful belief: access to knowledge and global exposure can change lives. What started as a small educational initiative has now become a dynamic platform for students, freelancers, and aspiring leaders across Uzbekistan and beyond. Through online courses, international certificate programs, grant writing workshops, and mentorship, the Academy has touched the lives of hundreds of young people.
Facing Challenges as a Young Female Leader
Starting a project as a young girl in Central Asia comes with its share of barriers — from societal expectations to limited resources. Muslima faced skepticism, financial difficulties, and the challenge of balancing her academic life with her entrepreneurial dream. Yet, with resilience and a clear purpose, she turned these challenges into motivation. “I wanted to show that age and gender do not limit what we can achieve,” she says.
From Local Impact to Global Recognition
Muslima’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed. She became the Uzbekistan Ambassador of Wakelet, a UK-based global education platform. Her scientific articles, books, and essays are now published in over 26 countries. She’s also a winner of multiple science Olympiads and startup competitions, proving that young women can lead innovation just as boldly as anyone.
Building for the Future
Muslima is currently working on expanding Muslima Academy and launching new projects like EduMingle — a platform that connects youth with real-world tasks, mentors, and portfolio-building opportunities. Her startup ideas combine AI, blockchain, and education to create sustainable solutions for freelance workers and learners.
Through her work, she is building more than platforms — she is building confidence in girls who doubt themselves, opportunity for youth who feel left behind, and hope for communities ready to rise.
The Message
Muslima’s journey is not just about personal success. It’s a call to action — to invest in girls, trust their ideas, and create ecosystems where young people can lead change. As she says, “You don’t need to wait to be older, richer, or more experienced to make an impact. You can start now — with a purpose, a laptop, and a dream.”
Language and Identity: How Language Shapes Cultural Belonging
Uzbekistan State World Languages University
English First Faculty
Sa`dullayeva Dilshoda Qalandar qizi
Abstract: Language is a fundamental element in shaping personal and collective identity. It serves not only as a tool for communication but also as a carrier of cultural values, beliefs, and traditions. This paper explores the intricate relationship between language and cultural belonging, focusing on how linguistic practices influence a person’s sense of identity within their cultural group. By analyzing sociolinguistic theories, real-life examples, and multilingual contexts, the paper highlights the role language plays in maintaining cultural heritage and community cohesion. The paper also considers the impact of globalization, migration, and language loss on cultural identity, emphasizing how shifts in language use can lead to feelings of displacement or transformation in self-perception. The findings suggest that language is not merely a means of expression, but a core component of cultural belonging that deeply shapes how individuals see themselves and are perceived by others. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for both linguistic and cultural preservation.
Keywords: Language and identity, cultural belonging, multilingualism, language preservation, sociolinguistics, language and culture, bilingualism, language loss, heritage language, linguistic diversity
Language is one of the most defining characteristics of human beings. It is not only a functional tool for communication but also a complex system through which we understand ourselves and the world around us. From the moment we begin to speak, language becomes deeply embedded in our identity—it shapes our thoughts, emotions, and how we interact with others. In many ways, language acts as a mirror, reflecting the culture, history, and values of the community to which we belong.
The study of language and identity is a multidisciplinary field, involving insights from linguistics, anthropology, psychology, and sociology. Identity itself is not static; it evolves over time and across contexts, and language plays a central role in that evolution. Our accent, vocabulary, and even the way we structure our sentences can signal where we come from, what communities we are part of, and how we see ourselves in relation to the world. This relationship becomes especially complex in multilingual societies, where individuals may switch between languages to navigate different social settings or express different facets of their identity.
Moreover, language can serve as a powerful symbol of cultural resistance and pride. Minority and indigenous communities around the world often struggle to maintain their languages in the face of globalization, assimilation pressures, and linguistic imperialism. In such contexts, language becomes a battleground for identity preservation, where losing a language can mean losing an entire worldview.
In this paper, we aim to explore the profound connection between language and cultural belonging. How does language shape our sense of self? What happens to identity when a language is lost or suppressed? How do multilingual individuals reconcile competing linguistic identities? These questions are at the heart of this inquiry. By examining linguistic theory, case studies, and real-life examples, this paper seeks to understand the vital role of language in the formation, expression, and maintenance of cultural identity in a rapidly changing world.
Language functions as a social identifier, distinguishing individuals based on their linguistic choices, dialects, or accents. People often infer social background, ethnicity, or even educational level based on how someone speaks. For example, in the UK, the difference between Received Pronunciation and regional dialects can signal class distinctions. Similarly, in the United States, African American Vernacular English (AAVE) serves not only as a linguistic system but also as a marker of African American cultural identity.
The choice to speak one language over another in different contexts can signal allegiance, resistance, or adaptation. A person who switches from their heritage language to a dominant societal language may be attempting to integrate, while another may insist on speaking their native tongue to assert cultural pride. These choices are often not just personal, but political. In many cases, marginalized communities have been stigmatized for their language use, leading to internalized shame and efforts to assimilate linguistically. However, reclaiming one’s language can also be a powerful act of cultural affirmation and identity restoration.
Language is the primary vehicle through which cultural knowledge, traditions, and social norms are transmitted across generations. Through everyday conversations, rituals, songs, idioms, and stories, language encodes the values, beliefs, and shared histories of a cultural group. For example, indigenous storytelling practices not only entertain but also serve to teach moral lessons and preserve spiritual beliefs. Oral traditions are especially critical in cultures without a strong written record, making language vital for continuity.
When a language is lost, a vast amount of cultural knowledge can be lost with it—often irreversibly. This loss affects not just vocabulary but also the way people conceptualize the world. Different languages offer unique ways of categorizing time, space, and relationships, and the disappearance of a language can erase these unique worldviews.
Furthermore, cultural ceremonies, naming practices, and kinship terms are often language-specific. Without linguistic fluency, newer generations may lose the ability to fully engage with or even understand their own heritage. Thus, maintaining a language is essential not only for communication but for preserving the soul of a culture.
In multicultural societies, it is increasingly common for individuals to be fluent in more than one language. Multilingualism allows people to participate in different cultural spheres and can contribute to a rich, hybrid identity. For example, children of immigrants often grow up speaking the home language with their family and the dominant language in school and public settings. This duality may lead to a complex sense of belonging, where individuals feel connected to multiple cultures at once. Code-switching—alternating between languages within a conversation—is a common strategy among bilinguals to navigate these layered identities. It can signal cultural affiliation, intimacy, or humor, and is often used to express concepts that do not easily translate between languages.
However, this hybrid identity can also produce internal conflict or external judgment. Some individuals feel “not enough” of either culture, especially when they are not fully fluent in one of their heritage languages. This can lead to what some scholars call “identity limbo,” where people feel culturally unanchored. Educators and communities that support bilingual education and multicultural recognition can help affirm and legitimize these blended identities.
The spread of globalization has had a profound effect on linguistic diversity. Dominant global languages—particularly English, Mandarin, Spanish, and Arabic—are becoming increasingly necessary for economic success, education, and technology. As a result, many speakers of minority languages are abandoning their native tongues in favor of these dominant ones, often under social or economic pressure.
This trend has contributed to what UNESCO calls “language endangerment.” When a language becomes obsolete, its associated culture may follow. Linguists estimate that a language disappears every two weeks, taking with it centuries of cultural expression.
At the same time, globalization also creates new opportunities for language revitalization. Movements across the world—from the revival of Hebrew in Israel to efforts to preserve indigenous languages in North and South America—demonstrate that with intentional policy, community will, and educational support, endangered languages can survive and even thrive.
Digital platforms have also played a key role, allowing marginalized communities to share and promote their languages globally. However, true revitalization must involve everyday use and intergenerational transmission, not just symbolic preservation.
Maori Language Revival (New Zealand): In New Zealand, the Maori people experienced decades of language suppression during colonization. Through grassroots activism, educational reforms (such as Kōhanga Reo language nests), and government recognition, the Maori language has seen a notable revival. This linguistic resurgence has empowered a new generation of Maori to reclaim their identity and culture.
Spanish-English Bilingualism (United States): In the U.S., Hispanic communities navigate between English and Spanish to maintain cultural ties while adapting to American society. Bilingualism in these communities reflects pride in Latinx heritage, but also brings challenges in education and assimilation. “Spanglish,” a hybrid linguistic form, is often used as a cultural bridge.
Inuit Languages in Canada: Efforts to preserve Inuktitut and other Inuit languages involve integrating them into school curriculums and official signage. Language reclamation here is seen as vital to cultural survival and sovereignty.
In conclusion, the intricate relationship between language and identity reveals how language is far more than just a tool for exchanging information. It is a living, dynamic expression of who we are, where we come from, and how we understand our place in the world. Language allows individuals to connect with their cultural roots, transmit traditions, and engage with their community in meaningful ways. It is also a key mechanism through which individuals navigate personal and social identity, especially in multicultural and multilingual environments.
Throughout this paper, we have seen how language acts as both a bridge and a barrier—capable of uniting people through shared heritage and simultaneously excluding others through linguistic differences. The examples of Maori revitalization, bilingualism among Hispanic communities in the U.S., and indigenous preservation efforts all illustrate how language directly influences not only cultural survival but also emotional and psychological well-being.
Yet, the forces of globalization, migration, and cultural assimilation continue to threaten linguistic diversity across the globe. As dominant languages expand, smaller languages—and the identities they support—are pushed to the margins. This calls for intentional action from governments, educators, and communities to preserve and promote linguistic heritage. Investing in language education, supporting mother-tongue instruction, and creating space for minority languages in public discourse are critical steps toward safeguarding identity and inclusion.
Ultimately, language is a repository of memory, identity, and culture. It shapes not only how we express ourselves, but also how we are understood and accepted by others. To protect language is to protect the very essence of cultural belonging. As we move further into a globalized era, acknowledging and preserving the bond between language and identity will be vital to fostering respect, diversity, and human dignity across all societies.
References
Fishman, J. A. (1999). Handbook of Language & Ethnic Identity. Oxford University Press.
Kramsch, C. (1998). Language and Culture. Oxford University Press.
Norton, B. (2013). Identity and Language Learning: Extending the Conversation. Multilingual Matters.
Edwards, J. (2009). Language and Identity: An Introduction. Cambridge University Press.
Crystal, D. (2000). Language Death. Cambridge University Press.
UNESCO. (2023). Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger. unesco.org
