The first issue of QISMAT is available online. Read the editor’s letter from Editor-in-Chief Marina S. Haq here.
“East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet.” In this famous line from the poem The Ballad of East and West, the English writer Rudyard Kipling suggests that the cultures and ways of life in the East and West are too distinct to overcome or intertwine.
This notion tends to dominate the current state of the world where differences are emphasized, overshadowing the idea of shared humanity. In order for unity to prevail, we have to broaden our horizons by fostering compassion, respect and understanding while recognizing and respecting the differences that make humans unique and interesting. This can only be achieved by having an open mind to perspectives different from our own to help us better understand the world.
This is at the heart of QISMAT, which serves to connect the East and the West. With a focus on cultural diversity and elegance, QISMAT aims to showcase captivating stories, insightful perspectives and diverse lifestyles. Through stories, interviews and other features, we aim to inspire readers to fulfill their potential, live a life of purpose and pursue their dreams, believing that everyone can shape their own qismat, which means “destiny” in Arabic and Persian.
This magazine emerged from a dream that has become my own qismat. Being passionate about reading and writing my entire life, I decided to major in English literature and linguistics and minor in Modern Asian and Middle Eastern Studies during my studies at the University of Zurich. Throughout my bachelor’s and master’s studies, I was able to combine my passion for writing and my interest in world affairs, enabling me to explore the world through a diverse lens, takingdifferent perspectives into consideration, aligning with my upbringing. As a Swiss and American with Afghan roots, I have enjoyed the familiarity of both the East and the West, hoping to carry the best of both worlds with me and in this magazine.
While curating the content of this first issue, a recurring theme revealed itself: destiny. The magazine includes articles and interviews featuring numerous individuals who have paved unique paths in their respective fields of expertise, leading to their personal calling – their destiny.
Among them is Dr. Christoph A. Karlo, who is featured on our inaugural cover. A man of many talents, Dr. Karlo is chairman of Octorad, founder, chairman and president of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Switzerland and chairman of Kessel Solar. He shares his insights on his many endeavors and living a life of purpose. Furthermore, there are many stories and interviews featuring President of Lions Club Zurich Cosmopolitan Almut Eger, President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Kerry Kennedy, literary and cultural scholar Dr. Elisabeth Bronfen, author of Manifest Roxie Nafousi and many more.
The features in this magazine celebrate cultural diversity and the beauty of differences found around the world. Hence, Kipling’s famous line can be altered as follows: “East is East, and West is West, and the twain have met.” By connecting the East and the West, we hope this magazine offers you a glimpse of the world.
Marina S. Haq
Editor-in-Chief
marina.haq@qismat.info
@marina.sanam
Order the first print issue of QISMAT here:
https://qismat.info/order-the-magazine/
