Oumar Amar

Rejuvenated by cold showers, Oumar Amar views identity as a fluid concept, often formed when others question you and make connections that aren’t there. At MIIS, he is characterized as an African, Muslim student. A polyglot by nature, Oumar knows seven languages. From a former-French colony, Mauritania, he employs his local languages to revolt against a Western dominance. Although he is not interested in the political agenda, Oumar joined Allies at MIIS to fulfill a moral responsibility to aid those who are treated unjustly. Listening to different stories of the injustice experienced by some students at MIIS prompted Oumar to create a space to support and listen to students who want to speak about the injustices they have endured. An ally is an empathetic individual who stands for truth and social justice throughout the world, no matter the cost. Being realistic, an ally cannot solve all injustices, but they can courageously condemn them. Equally important is being comfortable to make mistakes and admit to those mistakes. The different cultures present at MIIS encourage Oumar to get to know people more closely, eliminate cultural stereotypes, and reshape his views. Ultimately, his motivation stems from a desire to challenge himself to learn more, adjust his flaws, and grow as a person.