A GLOBAL COMMUNITY INITIATIVE THAT USES ART AS A VESSEL FOR
COMMUNITY EDUCATION, WELLBEING, AND CULTURAL RECONNECTION, VIRTUALLY AND IN PERSON, THROUGH EVENTS AND EXPERIENCES THAT CENTER THE SWANA (SOUTHWEST-NORTH AFRICAN) COMMUNITY.

ليش ‘هـنــا’؟

BEHIND
THE NAME

Houna (هـنــا) derived from the Arabic word “Here”, embodies the essence of the present moment, in all its glory and strife as it holds the past and carries the future.

In a world that propels us forward, demanding resilience amidst wars, genocide, displacement, economic crises, harsh narratives, and more… We, as SWANA individuals often find ourselves in a relentless state of “go”.

Houna emerges as an intermediary, a respite offering a pause that allows us to perceive reality in all its complexities - honoring our heritage despite the barriers that exist to sever us from it. Through the arts, Houna aims to transform the condition of forced assimilation into one of deep connection.

By being هـنــا, 
we can access the present moment in the warmth of shared laughter and tears, mingled with the aroma of mint tea.