January 7, 2025
WoEgypt

Dena Mekawi, Marketing and PR professional dedicated to purpose-driven initiatives. She founded Mekawi Impact, an agency focused on inclusive marketing strategies and consulting services to create positive social impact. She also serves as a representative at the United Nations Department of Global Communication NGO, working on projects that amplify marginalized voices.

Dena holds a degree in marketing and public relations, which laid the foundation for her career in strategic communications and social impact work.

Dena, a first-generation Egyptian-American, was born and raised in the United States. Her family immigrated to the U.S. seeking opportunities and a better future. Growing up, Dena faced challenges navigating her cultural identity, and finding balance between her Egyptian heritage with her American upbringing. 

Dena has a young daughter named Talia, who is already being introduced to Arabic culture and traditions. “I hope to teach her Arabic as she grows,” Dena shares. To instill pride in Talia about her Egyptian heritage, Dena exposes her to Egyptian stories, music, and traditions, seizing every opportunity to share Egypt’s rich history and culture.

Dena values preserving her Egyptian heritage and does so through storytelling, celebrating holidays, and staying connected to the community. “I still believe there needs to be more representation for Egyptians and their creativity,” she says.

She celebrates Egyptian traditions through food, music, and family gatherings, while maintaining cultural values like hospitality and resilience. Dena proudly shares stories about Egypt’s rich heritage in both her work and personal life. She occasionally watches Egyptian television during Ramadan, which she considers an integral part of the cultural experience. She also prepares traditional dishes like koshari, molokhia, and stuffed grape leaves.

Holidays such as Ramadan and Eid hold a special place in her spiritual and cultural life, and she celebrates them with family and friends. Whenever possible, Dena visits Egypt to stay connected to her roots, and family visits help maintain those strong ties.  

When Dena sees the Egyptian flag or hears the anthem or music, she is overwhelmed with pride and nostalgia. “The flag and anthem remind me of the resilience and beauty of Egyptian culture, and they inspire me to represent our heritage globally. I also feel proud when I see Egyptian culture being a source of inspiration for the western culture. Through music, and food and appropriate representation, we provide so much of our heritage and inspiration to western society, we have to be proud of that.”

As an Egyptian woman living in the U.S., Dena has faced cultural and societal challenges. “Balancing two cultures and combating stereotypes can be difficult, but I navigate these by staying authentic and using my platform to educate and inspire others.”

A memorable experience that beautifully merged Dena’s Egyptian identity with her life in the USA was curating the Arab playlist for Tidal. This initiative went beyond music; it was about representing the rich diversity and talent of Arab artists on a global stage. As an Egyptian-American, Dena felt a deep sense of purpose in creating a platform that amplified voices from the Arab world and showcased the vibrant culture that is often overlooked in mainstream media. 

Another defining moment was her work with the United Nations, where she addressed global audiences and advocated for inclusivity and cultural representation. Whether collaborating with influential figures or leading initiatives, Dena prioritized highlighting her heritage and amplifying the broader Arab experience. “These experiences represent the intersection of my identity and my purpose—bridging cultures, amplifying marginalized voices, and celebrating the resilience and beauty of the Egyptian and Arab communities within the global landscape.”

Among her many accomplishments, Dena is most proud of advocating for the official recognition of Arab American Heritage Month across the United States. Building on this achievement, she continues to collaborate with corporations to ensure they meaningfully celebrate this month. “This work not only highlights the contributions of the Arab American community but also fosters a deeper appreciation for our culture and heritage,” she says.

In America, Dena has encountered misconceptions about the capabilities and traditional roles of Egyptian women. She addressed them by showcasing strong, empowered narratives through her work and personal life.  

Dena also emphasizes the importance of integration for new immigrants. She believes it creates a sense of belonging and provides opportunities while allowing individuals to stay true to their cultural roots. “From my parents’ experience, their journey from Egypt to the USA is a powerful example of perseverance and adaptation.”

Her parents immigrated to the United States on their honeymoon with little more than determination and a dream for a better future. Despite facing numerous challenges, they worked tirelessly, prioritizing their education to gain the skills needed for success. Their hard work enabled them to transition from students to successful entrepreneurs, building businesses that reflected their resilience and values.  

Their integration into American society wasn’t just about adapting—it was about balancing opportunities with a deep connection to their Egyptian roots. Proud of their heritage, they demonstrated that integration doesn’t mean losing one’s identity but rather enriching the community with diverse stories. “Their journey is a testament to how integration blends identities, where hard work and resilience help immigrants build fulfilling lives while honoring their cultural legacy.”

Dena advises Egyptian women moving to the USA to stay true to their roots while embracing new opportunities. She encourages them to seek community support and use their voices to share their unique perspectives.  

“Your story is your superpower,” she says. “Whether it’s your family’s journey, career aspirations, or daily experiences, sharing your narrative helps break stereotypes and fosters understanding. Don’t shy away from discussing your heritage or challenges—it’s through these stories that you inspire others and honor your identity. Additionally, she encourages building or seeking communities of like-minded Egyptian or Arab women to navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.”

“Being an Egyptian-American has shaped my mission to bridge cultures and amplify underrepresented voices. My experiences have taught me the importance of embracing both my heritage and my identity in the USA. I’m proud to contribute to initiatives that celebrate diversity, foster inclusion, and showcase the strength and creativity of Egyptian women on a global scale. My journey reflects the resilience and ambition of our community and the power of staying connected to our roots while driving meaningful change. My journey is a testament to the resilience of Egyptian women and our ability to impact the world positively,” Dena concludes.