Jasmin is a dedicated social and behavioral researcher, author, speaker, podcaster, educator, and advocate for cultural identity. Born in the Middle East to an Arabian father and Italian mother, and raised in the most fundamental Islamic country, she navigated the complexities of her identity as a first-generation bi-cultural woman in conservative Saudi Arabia during the 1970s and 1980s. In 1999, Jasmin immigrated to the United States, where she earned degrees in sociology, creative writing, multiculturalism, and ethical leadership in Wyoming and Washington State.
Her expertise encompasses social identity, cultural and societal oppression, women’s rights, multicultural perspectives, cults and religion, racial and ethnic understanding, and global diversity. In her memoir, The Last Sandstorm, she recounts the vibrant yet challenging experiences of her upbringing in Saudi Arabia, culminating in her dramatic escape in her twenties.
As the host of the podcast “I Want You To Meet,” Jasmin facilitates inspiring and educational discussions with artists and activists. She is also a sought-after guest lecturer and speaker at various events, colleges, and retreats. Jasmin has studied cults and religions for many years, and today identifies as a Compassionate Humanist. Currently, she is working on her second book, a social analysis of obscure cultural identities.
Talk Title: Emerging From the Sandstorm: Escaping the Grip of Islamic Fundamentalism
Topic Description: In this compelling talk, Jasmin shares her personal journey of growing up in fundamentalist Islamic Saudi Arabia during one of the most extremist periods in the country’s modern history. She recounts her struggle against the constraints imposed by a patriarchal society, detailing the profound impact of cultural and religious beliefs on her identity and aspirations. During her upbringing and coming of age, Jasmin often grappled with the expectations placed upon women, which often stifled individuality and expression. In 1999, compelled by a deep desire for freedom and self-determination, Jasmin made the life-altering decision to leave behind everything she had known and start anew in America. This journey was not merely an escape but a pivotal transition into a realm where she could freely express her thoughts and advocate for critical issues surrounding women’s rights and underserved communities. This inspiring narrative explores themes of resilience, empowerment, and the pursuit of personal freedom, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the complexities faced by women in conservative societies and the transformative power of breaking free from oppressive traditions.