Intersectionality & Identity

  • May 13, 2024
  • 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
  • Virtual

Registration is closed

Please join us for a talk by Luby Ismail, Founder and President of Connecting Cultures for over 30 years.

Luby will delve into the intricate intersectionality of her Arab American, Muslim, and Multiple Sclerosis identities. Through her personal journey, she has gleaned invaluable lessons that not only shaped her perspective but also fueled her resilience. She will share the challenges she has faced, from navigating cultural expectations to managing a chronic illness within a specific religious and ethnic context.

By weaving together these threads of identity, Luby will highlight the unique insights gained, emphasizing the importance of empathy, self-advocacy, and community support. She has learned the power of embracing complexity, fostering inclusivity, and finding strength in solidarity. These lessons lived and learned continue to shape her experiences and drive her commitment to promoting understanding and empowerment within diverse communities.

We look forward to seeing you at the event!


Lobna “Luby” Ismail, Founder and President of Connecting Cultures, LLC, is a motivational speaker and powerful trainer and expert on cultural competence, diversity & inclusion, Arab cultures, and Islamophobia.

Luby provides in-depth and credible briefings and trainings based on intercultural models and best practices to engage across cultures and faiths. Her compelling and enthusiastic personal style weaves in her own life experiences. Her award-winning speech “Longing for Belonging,”  which shares her struggles and ideals of America, was delivered at The Washington National Cathedral and The White House.

Luby has published on Arab Cultures and Cultural Competence. Watch her in First Three to Five Seconds which she produced for the Department of Justice Community Relations Services on Arab and Muslim Americans. Recognized as a reputable leader, watch her in American Muslims Facts vs. Fiction.

Selected as a Peace Fellow for Seeds of Peace and a Malone Fellow in Middle East and Islamic Studies by the National Council for U.S. and Arab Relations, Luby is dedicated to creating understanding between Americans and Arabs. She is an integral contributor for My Fellow American and 20,000 Dialogues.

Luby acquired a Master’s degree in Intercultural Relations from Lesley University and a B.A. in International Service from The American University in Washington, DC.

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