In this thought-provoking episode of The Ajyal Show, we explore the unseen architecture of storytelling with Dr. Ibrahim N. Abusharif—writer, journalist, and esteemed professor.

From his early academic detour in the sciences to a purposeful return to journalism and religious studies, Ibrahim’s journey is rooted in the pursuit of truth through narrative. A formative experience in Palestinian refugee camps revealed the danger of stories left untold—and the consequences of relying on media gatekeepers to shape public memory.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Ibrahim explores how narratives function as invisible forces—constructing identities, shaping histories, and reinforcing power. He argues that reclaiming our voice begins with “narrative sovereignty”—a conscious, community-driven effort to resist distortion and speak from within.

We discuss the credibility crisis in legacy media, the double-edged nature of digital platforms, and the urgent need for critical listening. Ibrahim offers both a critique and a call to action: to pay attention to how language is used, to question what is excluded, and to engage in the ongoing work of storytelling as a form of cultural stewardship.

This episode offers a compelling toolkit for resisting misrepresentation: from cultivating critical listening skills to actively building alternative narratives that reflect lived realities. A must-watch for anyone invested in cultural agency, justice, and the responsibility of storytellers.

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