THE social networks can represent a sharing channel to break down prejudices, promote integration and learn about the traditions of other cultures, Sumaia Saiboub knows it well. The campaign demonstrates this #MonthofGood launched by Meta to celebrate the extraordinary stories of the Muslim community, in the month of Ramadan, in the Islamic calendar dedicated to fasting, prayer, meditation and self-discipline.
The commitment on social media against Islamophobia
In fact, there are many young people who choose Facebook and Instagram to tell and share their stories, especially educating the new generations to cultural, ethnic and social diversity. Among these there is Sumaia Saiboubaka Sumi, 25-year-old content creator.
Sumaia Saiboub
“Unfortunately, Ramadan is often understood as something extreme – he explains – to dismantle these preconceptions, I am creating reels in which, with an ironic approach, I show how fasting is just one of the many Islamic precepts and it is not a competition for self-harm. In this month, we are also invited to abstinence from sinful behavior and, above all, to greater solidarity with others ”.
Sumi, beyond any prejudice
His activity on social media is not improvised, following the degree in languages and the specialization in communication that she is about to achieve in Modena, where she was born and raised by parents of Moroccan origin, Sumi has fulfilled her dream of working in the world of entertainment and the creative industry. Today, in fact, she defines herself as a digital nomad and she is keen to reiterate that she is Italian.
«When they tell me How well do you speak Italianto me, that’s not a compliment at all. It should be taken for granted because I’m Italian, but unfortunately, above all, adults are still trapped in these prejudices “ she affirms recalling the teachers that for her North African features and the veil on her head, with the same performance with her classmates, they always gave her lower grades.
Still, on the street or in public offices, it happens that they mistake her for a migrant or ask her to show her documents. Also for this reason it felt the need to be more represented and to give a voice to minorities.
The story of an inclusive and multi-ethnic Italy
“On social networks, which represent a democratic square, I want to inspire people to be themselves, to do what they want and to dress as they feel best, ignoring the judgment of others. We have to get out of the comfort zone and show ourselves as we are, ”she says firmly, pointing to Colory *the digital platform that he devised to tell the stories of a more inclusive and multi-ethnic Italy, where minorities can find their own.
“It’s time to tell how Italy has changed – he adds – there are many Italians and Italians who no longer have that traditional aspect for the collective imagination. Fortunately, many of my peers are very clear that we are all different, but there is still a cultural gap to fill ».
The wall of stereotypes
As Sumi points out, due to a lack of knowledge of the history of religions and sometimes distorted information, Muslim people are often linked only to conflicts and extreme fanaticism.
With her commitment she tries to break down the wall of stereotypes, involving many Muslim followers who support her, but also thousands of Italian peers.
Sumaia Saiboub: diversity unites
“It is nice to see a community of boys and girls grow who seem to be distant, with little or nothing to share, and instead discover how much diversity unites – he declares – finally there is a space to explore new worlds and learn about other traditions. So, for example, no one will be pitied for not celebrating Christmas, as happened to me in school. Everyone must know that each of us has their own festivals and traditions to celebrate ».
Fashion tips for Eid
Such as Eid, the end of Ramadan partyscheduled for May 2, which the young influencer is also preparing for, guided by her intimate relationship with her religion.
“Fashion has always been my passion, I collaborate with various brands and, in recent weeks, I am making content with outfit recommendations for this party which is the Muslim version of the Met Gala»He says, referring to the various colors, cuts and styles he proposes.
Fashion must be inclusive
Sumi, reiterating that it is never chosen only for inclusiveness, but also because it reflects the style of those certain brandshighlights that there are still too few influencers representing minorities at fashion events.
His wish is that “Italian fashion will become even more inclusive, embracing all demographic variables that are discriminated against, through the involvement of new models and ambassadors who offer perspectives that are as diverse as they are representative “.
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