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Check FAQAbout Toqa
I am a freelance journalist based in Cairo, Egypt. I have been working in the field of journalism for nine years in the Middle East. I have also earned my master's degree from the American University in Washington DC in the field of Intercultural and International Communication.
Portfolio
Food, Culture and Identity: On the Importance of Rolling Grape Leaves
The article discusses the impact of Western eating habits on Middle Eastern food culture, emphasizing the importance of traditional food preparation methods, such as rolling grape leaves, to personal identity and social relations. It highlights the rise of fast food and its effects on family dynamics, mental health, and the erosion of traditional culinary practices. The article also explores the influence of capitalism on food consumption and the changing language of menus. Experts Antonio Tahhan and Dahlia El-Orabi provide insights on preserving traditional food culture and the empowering process of cooking.
In Egypt Referendum, Only the Turnout Seems in Doubt
The Egyptian referendum on constitutional amendments aims to extend President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's rule until 2030 and increase his authority over the judiciary and legislature. Despite efforts to ensure a high turnout and a 'yes' vote, including free rides to polling stations and distribution of free groceries, civil society organizations and some citizens expressed opposition. The government has suppressed dissent and criticism, with opposition figures barred from debates and websites blocked. The referendum's outcome appears predictable, with significant state efforts to secure a favorable result.
Maison Groppi: Cairo’s Downtown Historical Gem to Reawaken Following Renovations
Maison J. Groppi, a historic café in Cairo's Downtown, is undergoing renovations by Interior Design Studios Alchemy. The café, known for its Parisian style and high ceilings, has been a part of Cairo's history, frequented by politicians, intellectuals, and artists. It survived the 1952 anti-colonial protests and has seen changes through Egypt's social and economic shifts. Journalist Farah Bahgat and student Ahmed Al-Masry shared their hopes and skepticism about the renovation, emphasizing the importance of preserving its historical essence. Groppi's founder, Giacomo Groppi, was a pioneer in introducing chocolates and Crème Chantilly to Egypt.
Meet Egypt’s First Female Solo Cyclist to Go Around Egypt
Hamsa Mansour, an Egyptian adventurer and cyclist, plans to become the first female to solo cycle around Egypt. Her journey begins with a preparatory trip across the Red Sea and Sinai in November, followed by a 1600-kilometer ride to the Western Desert's Oases in 2018, culminating in a grand solo trip around Egypt in 2019. Sponsored by Wild Guanabana, Mansour aims to challenge gender stereotypes and inspire others through her travels. Future plans include kayaking from Aswan to Damietta and participating in international expeditions.
ISIS Releases Video Threatening Egypt’s Christians, Showing Church Bomber
The Islamic State released a video threatening Egyptian Christians and featuring Abu Abdullah Al-Masry, the bomber responsible for the Coptic Cathedral attack in Cairo. Al-Masry, identified by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi as Mahmoud Shafeek, made statements about freeing jailed Islamists and future attacks. The bombing, claimed by IS, was the deadliest civilian attack in Cairo, resulting in at least 29 deaths and numerous injuries. IS continues to be active in Egypt's North Sinai, engaging in ongoing conflict with Egyptian security forces.
Gender Pay Gap: Belittling Arab Women’s Efforts Because They Are Not the ‘Breadwinners’
The gender pay gap in the Arab world is exacerbated by social norms and legal restrictions that hinder women's rights in the workplace. Women face issues such as lack of promotions, inability to report sexual harassment safely, and the burden of domestic work. The United Nations and the World Bank provide data highlighting the economic impact and disparities in pay between men and women. Feminist activist Alaa Al-Kassabany discusses the social misconceptions that contribute to the pay gap and the challenges faced by working mothers in Egypt.
Terrso: New Online Magazine Aims To Revive Real Film Criticism In Egypt
A new online magazine, Terrso, has been launched in Egypt with the aim of reviving real film criticism and providing profound reviews of local and international films. Co-founder Mostafa Youssef highlights the lack of contemporary resources and in-depth criticism in the Egyptian film industry as key motivators for the magazine's creation. Terrso seeks to offer translations, contemporary resources, and vivid discussions on new movies and events, ultimately aiming to foster advancements in the film industry through critical analysis.
Trial of Shawkan, 738 other defendants adjourned to 7 February in “Rabaa dispersal” case
The Cairo Criminal Court adjourned the trial of 739 defendants, including Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohamed Badie and photojournalist Mahmoud Abou Zeid (Shawkan), to 7 February. The charges include vandalism, attempted murder, planning an armed insurrection, and belonging to an outlawed group. Shawkan, arrested during the Rabaa Al-Adaweyya sit-in dispersal, remains detained despite other journalists being released. His health is reportedly deteriorating, and he has been denied medication. The sit-in was a protest against the ouster of former president Mohamed Morsi. The Shawkan Photo Awards, honoring Shawkan, concluded its second round and will distribute awards on 19 January.
Renowned TV presenter Ibrahim Eissa suspends his talk show due to ambiguous ‘pressures’
Ibrahim Eissa suspended his talk show 'Maa Ibrahim Eissa' on Al Qahera Wel Nas due to unspecified pressures. The channel confirmed the suspension, stating Eissa's desire to focus on editorial projects. The article highlights a trend of TV presenters facing suspensions or restrictions in 2016 for expressing political views, including Rania Badawy, Amr El-Leithy, Moataz Al-Demerdash, Liliane Daoud, and Azza El-Hennawy. These incidents reflect broader issues of media censorship and political pressure in Egypt.
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