In this episode…
…a conversation about what the integration of an illness and subsequent disabilities have been like, for Fouzia.
After learning that her body is dealing with a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, she had to learn a lot, in a very short time. For example, about the importance of self-care practices, the importance of rest, how to start delegating tasks as a former perfectionist, deflect unwanted assistance and cluelessness of loved ones and strangers alike - but above all: to stand up for her humanity.
Fouzia shares stories of how some people would treat her as ‘less than’ previously as well, but before it was because she is a hijab wearing Muslim woman. In work situations, some would approach her as ‘the head scarf’, and underestimate her rather than treat her like the intelligent professional she actually is. So discrimination is not something she is unfamiliar with. After receiving her diagnosis, she has recognized some of these similar patterns of dismissive treatment; this time in relation to her status as a person with disabilities. As we talk, she explains her rigorous approach when experiencing ableism, while also sharing the vulnerable process accepting this newly found identity. Join us!
On 14 January 2027 this conversation will be launched as episode 6.
Fouzia
Coming from a tight knit family of Maroccan origin, Fouzia is born and raised in the Netherlands, is married, and has four children. As a hijab wearing Muslim woman, she finds great solace, guidance and strength in her religion.
Her working life has been spent as a municipal officer in a small city in the Eastern part of the Netherlands. Currently, she contributes time and energy to the education of asylum seekers, as they learn to speak the Dutch language.
To get away from her busy family life, Fouzia loves to go to the movies by herself as an ultimate form of self-care. A city trip with friends or sisters, a family vacation or a journey to her roots, are important ways Fouzia connects with her people.
id: an image of a small terra cotta bowl, with Maroccan food. A Smooth and savory vegetable dish, slowly cooked courgettes, lentils, onions are garnished with prunes, olives and one green chili pepper. Fouzia chose this image to represent her in this space. Building a powerful archive of embodied knowledge, one conversation at a time.