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By Mieko Yamada, Purdue University Fort Wayne

Malak El- Taleb, the recipient of the Emerging Leader Award, was originally born and raised in Libya. She moved to the United States when she was 10 years old. Malak’s father had established his career as a university professor in the United States and made a tremendous effort to support and protect his family. Malak understands the struggles and challenges that immigrants face and recognizes how hard it is for immigrants to adjust themselves to and live in a new environment.

Malak is a recent Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW) graduate with a B.S. in Psychology and Minor in Sociology. She served as a student leader and representative of the entire student body, for regional and international students, and strived to bridge between students and the university by participating in student organizations and campus committees. Through her own experience of being an immigrant, Malak cultivated a strong interest in advocating immigrants and refugees and fighting against social injustice.

While working at the Allen County Clerk’s Office, Malak continues to volunteer with Amani Family Services for advocating immigrants and refugees living in Fort Wayne and addressing what they need. In addition to overcoming language barriers in communication with those who do not speak English, Malak considers acknowledging different customs and cultures surrounding us is essential. She hopes that Fort Wayne continues to welcome immigrants and refugees, be open-minded to learn about differences, and appreciate cultural uniqueness.

Special thanks to Mieko Yamada, Ph.D., Professor and Program Coordinator, Department of Anthropology and Sociology, Purdue University Fort Wayne, and her students for contributing their articles to Amani Family Services.