A gift of clarity, community and culture.
April is Arab American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage, contributions, and spirit of Arab Americans across the country. At Give Wrapped, we’re all about meaningful connections, intentional giving, and the stories that bring us together. This month? The story hits a little closer to home.
Because I’ve been lucky enough to be part of something extraordinary.
A couple of months ago, after completing an extensive application process, I was selected to join a 9-week business cohort through the Arab American Chamber of Commerce’s Tejara Innovation Hub. More than 250 people applied, and about 20 of us were chosen. I still can’t believe I’m one of them.
Through this program, I’ve been gifted so much more than business advice. I’ve found clarity. I’ve found community. I’ve found colleagues and connections that I know will shape the future of Give Wrapped in ways I never imagined. And yes, they’re also giving me a grant to help move my business forward. It’s a generous and deeply appreciated investment in my vision.
This program has been incredible. It’s comprehensive, extensive, and challenging, and it has pushed me to take an honest look at both my business and myself. With just under two weeks to go, we’re putting the final touches on our business plans. It will include all the things….financial projections, a full marketing and operations strategy, ALL the SOPs, and so much more. Ahhhhhhhhh!
We’re also preparing to present those plans (yes, full-on pitch style) and fine-tuning our elevator pitches until they’re clear, confident, and dare I say… fabulous!
But more than the money (which, let’s be honest, is amazing), it’s the people. The other business owners going through it alongside me. The incredible team at the Chamber. The way everyone shows up with purpose, with heart, with the kind of generosity that doesn’t always show up in spreadsheets.
This experience has been a gift. And if you know me, you know I don’t use that word lightly.
So, what can you do to honor Arab American Heritage Month?
Whether you're Arab American or not, this month is a chance for all of us to learn, celebrate, and uplift. Here are a few meaningful ways to show up:
Support Arab American-owned businesses. Many are local, handmade, and all are full of soul. Here are some that are in the cohort:
Maraseel Cards - Thoughtful Arabic calligraphy cards & prints that tell your story with heart. We are OBSESSED.
Mayrum - Bringing authentic, easy-to-prepare Sudanese meals and drinks to your home, crafted with love and tradition.
QudsOrchard - Bringing the heart of Palestine to Detroit with organic farm products and handcrafted pottery.
Al Huda Apparel - Modest scrubs and professional wear designed for women in healthcare who value comfort, coverage, and style.
The Babylon Collection – Curating apparel and accessories that embody the rich heritage of Babylon.
Que Shebley - A Detroit-based fashion tech brand offering handcrafted, customizable luxury footwear and leather goods that fuse traditional artistry with modern innovation.
Indigo Ink Beauty - Expertly crafted brows through microblading.
Jomana Ismail - Metro-Detroit realtor who makes first time-time home buying a breeze
Iconavize - Instantly demystifying your car's dashboard icons by snapping a quick pic.
Xtreme Signs & Shirts - Your go-to source for custom signs, apparel, and promotional products, delivering quality and creativity.
J&Z Signs and Designs – Personalized design services for standout signs and custom gear, made with care from concept to creation.
La Feria – A vibrant Spanish tapas restaurant in Detroit, serving authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
While not part of the cohort, Elias Khalil, owner and general manager of La Feria, is leading our cohort. He brings his expertise (and great taste) to the table.NOTE: This isn’t an exhaustive list. Many in our cohort are still in the process of building their brands, and while they haven’t launched just yet, we adore them and fully support their journey! We’ll update this post as their businesses go live.
Read and share stories by Arab American authors, creators, and artists.
Support organizations like the Arab American Chamber of Commerce that are actively growing community and opportunity.
Be curious. Learn about traditions, food, language, and history. There’s beauty in understanding.
Admission to the Arab American National Museum is FREE in April for Arab American Heritage Month. This fabulous museum is located in Dearborn and is one of seven Michigan-based Affiliates of the Smithsonian. Hello!!!!!
Celebrate generosity and hospitality, core values in Arab culture that align deeply with the spirit of thoughtful gifting.
This isn’t just a moment to recognize a culture, it’s a chance to connect with it. To expand our view. To support each other. And to do it in a way that’s rooted in respect and joy.
Here’s to heritage.
Here’s to generosity.
And here’s to building something meaningful, together.
Happy Arab American Heritage Month.
