Loading ...#ABTalks with Achraf Hakimi: Inspiring the Moroccan Diaspora
By: Nissrine Bedda / Arab America Contributing Writer
#ABTalks, a talk show hosted by Emirati influencer Anas Bukhash, brings together icons from the Arab world for heartfelt conversations. It offers a rare opportunity for these figures to open up about their childhoods, share their struggles, and reveal sides of themselves that often remain hidden from the media. Through open and honest dialogue, the show invites a deeper connection with these icons, reminding us that, at their core, they are human—just like us.
“How are you really?”
Recently, Bukhash welcomed renowned Moroccan-Spanish footballer Achraf Hakimi to #ABTalks, where the simple question, “How are you really?” unfolded into an hour-and-a-half conversation. Together, they explored the highs and lows of Hakimi’s journey as a football player, revealing how what may appear to be a glamorous lifestyle is, in reality, a humbling experience.
Achraf Hakimi was born and raised in Madrid, the capital of Spain, where adapting as a Moroccan can often be challenging. His upbringing mirrors the experiences of many Moroccan-Spanish children who are part of the broader European diaspora. Spain is home to approximately 1.3 million Moroccans, many of whom migrated to the nearby country in pursuit of the “Western dream”—a chance to turn their aspirations into reality. Yet, the lingering sense of homesickness remains a common thread in their journeys. In fact, Hakimi mentions, “I always had a clear goal. I pushed myself mentally and physically to achieve it, even during the hardest times. Coming from a poor family, I faced extra challenges. People often saw us as outsiders because we weren’t originally Spanish. It made finding opportunities more difficult.”
“What Does Morocco Mean to you?”
Throughout the talk, the famous soccer player expresses not only his passion for the sport that brought him to semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, but the pride he carried for his nation of Morocco throughout the life-changing experience. When host Anas Bukhash asked, “What does Morocco mean to you?” Hakimi’s heartfelt response resonated deeply with the Moroccan diaspora: “it means a lot to me, it’s my parent’s country, it’s my country, and its helped me a lot and has sent me a lot of love and I feel a grateful for everything that nation has brought to me and my family.”
It’s true! Morocco is a nation that while our families may have left in loot of marking a new story in another nation, the pride we feel, the heritage that links us to our morals and life principles, the ways in which we Moroccans view the world around us, is due to the rich identity we carry. No matter how many miles we are away from our homeland, we continue to spread joy, peace, and light into the paths of the people we come across. Our rich, light-hearted roots allow us to mark a path forward for generations to come. From the unforgettable underdog story of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Morocco united Arab nations and touched hearts across the globe, transcending language barriers and showing the world the fearless and distinct spirit of the Moroccan identity.
It’s Like Magic!
No matter where life takes Moroccans, memories and feelings of their homeland always find a way to surface. In the midst of a conversation, a story or a moment of reflection can spark a deep sense of connection to their nation. Even if they’re far from Morocco, the act of sharing these memories evokes a euphoric sense of nostalgia, immersing them in the vivid essence of home. It’s truly a magical feeling.
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