Tak on the Pod

Takreem and Takreem America Foundation

Welcome to “Tak on the Pod,” a podcast brought to you by the TAKREEM Foundation and TAKREEM AMERICA Foundation. Join our host, Andrea, as she explores the untold success stories of remarkable individuals who have tirelessly worked to make the world a better place. Each episode unveils the extraordinary achievements within the foundation’s community, ranging from laureates and board members to patrons and supporters, delving into their inspiring journeys, shared wisdom, and the significant impact they’ve made globally.

Featuring a diverse lineup of guests—including trailblazing entrepreneurs, revolutionary artists, impactful social activists, and leading scientists—our podcast celebrates the resilience, determination, and creativity that are hallmarks of the MENA region, where most of our stories originate.

Our mission is to bridge cultural divides, challenge stereotypes, and craft a new narrative that highlights the rich talents and accomplishments stemming from the MENA region, reaching out to the global stage. Get ready to be inspired and instilled with a profound sense of pride as we reveal the incredible potential of humanity.

Tune in to honor stories of resilience, innovation, and excellence, all while paying tribute to our origins.

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Society & CultureSociety & Culture

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#4 - Preserving Beirut's Heritage: A Journey with Mona El Hallak

#4 - Preserving Beirut's Heritage: A Journey with Mona El Hallak

In this episode of "Tak on the Pod," we are joined by Mona El Hallak, a renowned architect and heritage preservation activist from Beirut. Mona’s work has been pivotal in preserving Lebanon’s architectural and cultural heritage, most notably leading the transformation of the historic Barakat Building into Beit Beirut—a museum of memory and cultural hub. As the Director of the Neighbourhood Initiative at the American University of Beirut, she spearheads urban renewal projects that foster community engagement and sustainability in Ras Beirut.Throughout our conversation, Mona shares her journey from architecture to activism, the challenges she faced in preserving Beirut's historic landmarks, and the significance of community involvement in urban renewal. We also explore her efforts in transforming public spaces, the importance of heritage in shaping identity, and her vision for a more vibrant and resilient Beirut.Join us for an inspiring discussion on how one woman’s dedication to heritage preservation is helping to build a brighter future for Beirut. Don’t miss this episode if you’re passionate about architecture, history, or urban renewal!Sources mentioned:Beirut 1920-1940 Domestic Architecture Between Tradition and Modernity by Robert SalibaThe Walls of Sana'a (Le mura di Sana'a) by Pier Paolo PasoliniIntro Music:"Castro in the City" from the album "Madinatuna" by Paul Salem.Learn more about the Foundation:takreem.orgtakreemamerica.orgFollow Us: Twitter: @takreemorg @takreemamericaInstagram: @takreemorg @takreemamericaYoutube: @takreemfoundation @takreemamerica

Episodes

#4 - Preserving Beirut's Heritage: A Journey with Mona El Hallak

#4 - Preserving Beirut's Heritage: A Journey with Mona El Hallak

In this episode of "Tak on the Pod," we are joined by Mona El Hallak, a renowned architect and heritage preservation activist from Beirut. Mona’s work has been pivotal in preserving Lebanon’s architectural and cultural heritage, most notably leading the transformation of the historic Barakat Building into Beit Beirut—a museum of memory and cultural hub. As the Director of the Neighbourhood Initiative at the American University of Beirut, she spearheads urban renewal projects that foster community engagement and sustainability in Ras Beirut.Throughout our conversation, Mona shares her journey from architecture to activism, the challenges she faced in preserving Beirut's historic landmarks, and the significance of community involvement in urban renewal. We also explore her efforts in transforming public spaces, the importance of heritage in shaping identity, and her vision for a more vibrant and resilient Beirut.Join us for an inspiring discussion on how one woman’s dedication to heritage preservation is helping to build a brighter future for Beirut. Don’t miss this episode if you’re passionate about architecture, history, or urban renewal!Sources mentioned:Beirut 1920-1940 Domestic Architecture Between Tradition and Modernity by Robert SalibaThe Walls of Sana'a (Le mura di Sana'a) by Pier Paolo PasoliniIntro Music:"Castro in the City" from the album "Madinatuna" by Paul Salem.Learn more about the Foundation:takreem.orgtakreemamerica.orgFollow Us: Twitter: @takreemorg @takreemamericaInstagram: @takreemorg @takreemamericaYoutube: @takreemfoundation @takreemamerica

#3 - From Jordan to Sydney: The Inspirational Path of Hala Zreiqat

#3 - From Jordan to Sydney: The Inspirational Path of Hala Zreiqat

In this episode of "Tak on the Pod," Andrea welcomes Hala Zreiqat, a trailblazer in biomedical engineering and a passionate advocate for the next generation. From her beginnings in the Royal Medical Services with the Jordanian Armed Forces to becoming a Payne-Scott Professor at The University of Sydney, Hala's journey is a testament to resilience and innovation. Dive into the untold stories of her life, challenges faced as an Arab woman in science, and groundbreaking research in regenerative medicine. Explore her commitment to mentorship through initiatives like BIOTech Futures, her role in breaking stereotypes, and the global impact of her work. Join us for an inspiring conversation with a visionary shaping the future of medicine and empowering young minds.Intro Music:"Castro in the City" from the album "Madinatuna" by Paul Salem.Learn more about the Foundation:takreem.orgtakreemamerica.orgFollow Us: Twitter: @takreemorg @takreemamericaInstagram: @takreemorg @takreemamericaYoutube: @takreemfoundation @takreemamerica

#2 - Harmony in Motion: Art and Identity with Habib Azar

#2 - Harmony in Motion: Art and Identity with Habib Azar

Join host Andrea in this captivating episode of "Tak on the Pod" as we welcome Habib Azar, an eight-time Emmy Award-winning producer and director. Renowned for his dynamic style and creative genius, Habib has left an indelible mark on the arts landscape with works spanning feature films, contemporary opera, and live broadcasts. Dive deep into Habib's creative process, his experiences directing large-scale events, and the influence of his Lebanese identity on his artistic endeavors. Explore the intersection of culture and creativity with a maestro in the industry, as we uncover the stories behind his notable projects and the impact of his work.Intro Music:"Castro in the City" from the album "Madinatuna" by Paul Salem.Learn more about the Foundation:takreem.orgtakreemamerica.orgFollow Us: Twitter: @takreemorg @takreemamericaInstagram: @takreemorg @takreemamericaYoutube: @takreemfoundation @takreemamerica

#1 - Honoring Arab Excellence: A Journey with Ricardo Karam

#1 - Honoring Arab Excellence: A Journey with Ricardo Karam

In the inaugural episode of "Tak on the Pod," join host Andrea as she sits down with the visionary Ricardo Karam, founder of Takreem. With over twenty-five years of experience as a talk show host, public speaker, writer, and advocate, Ricardo shares insights into his journey and the mission behind the TAKREEM Foundation. Discover the essence of 'Takreem' and its role in honoring Arab achievements. Explore the impact of TAKminds initiatives and the inspiration behind the Takreem Foundation Podcast. This episode is a tribute to the empowerment of the Arab world and the remarkable laureates celebrated by the Takreem Foundation.Intro Music:"Castro in the City" from the album "Madinatuna" by Paul Salem.Learn more about the Foundation:takreem.orgtakreemamerica.orgFollow Us: Twitter: @takreemorg @takreemamericaInstagram: @takreemorg @takreemamericaYoutube: @takreemfoundation @takreemamerica