The Doyle Engaging Difference Program - Georgetown University

In today’s globalized world, the convergence of diverse cultures has become a commonplace phenomenon, and a perfect example of this is Qatar. I still remember my first arrival in Qatar, being welcomed by the warm environment and already experiencing numerous shocks. At the airport, I was greeted by people from various countries, making it feel like the world had converged in one place. My life as a Filipino student here in Qatar is a narrative of both cultural adaptation and religious understanding, not only with the local culture, but also with the cultures of the expatriates. Considering that it is a melting pot of cultures, it has provided me with an opportunity to broaden my perspective of the world, meeting people from different corners with unique experiences and backgrounds. This journey has been both challenging and enriching, shaping my identity in ways I never imagined.

Qatar’s diversity is particularly correlated with its rapid economic growth. Within the past few decades, it has received a significant influx of foreign workers from all over the world, creating an extraordinarily diverse population. In fact, more than 80% of the population of Qatar are actually non-Qatari. These expatriates come from all corners of the globe, including South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Each community brings its unique traditions, languages, and customs, contributing to the rich cultural mosaic that defines modern Qatar.

As I mentioned, I am part of the Filipino community here in Qatar. My identity is rooted in this community but expands as I interact with various cultures around me. We Filipinos have brought our own rich culture to Qatar, and it is continuously being influenced by others in many ways, especially in terms of language. For example, we often incorporate Arabic phrases like "shukran" into our daily conversations. This cultural exchange enriches our lives, making our Filipino heritage even more vibrant and dynamic in this multicultural environment.

Although Qatar is a diverse country, it is officially an Islamic nation with the majority of the population being Muslim, and many of its laws, culture, and practices are deeply integrated with Islam. Consequently, we partake in these cultural practices, which shape our perceptions and understanding. We learn about religion and culture, bridging gaps that previously hindered understanding. For example, we join in important religious events like Ramadan, with some of my non-Muslim friends participating in fasting together, experiencing the discipline and spiritual reflection that come with it. We also join in iftar to break the fast, gathering together as friends and sharing in the sense of community and gratitude. During Eid, we celebrate by attending gatherings hosted by our Muslim friends, enjoying traditional foods, and participating in the festive atmosphere. This exposure prevents us from being stuck in our own bubble and opens us to a new culture. We attend cultural festivals, visit mosques, and learn about Islamic traditions and history, which deepens our appreciation for the country's heritage. None of this is forced upon us—we willingly embrace and learn from what is foreign to us, creating mutual respect and understanding.

Nonetheless, Qatar remains committed to fostering great cultural and religious diversity, creating a safe space for everyone to practice their religion without feeling alienated from their own identity. As a Filipino here, I have always felt included, not only because of the significant Filipino community but also because of the welcoming environment Qatar has created. This allows us to practice our culture and religion freely. There is space for every religious community. Christian communities, including Catholics, Orthodox, and various Protestant denominations, have established churches where they freely practice their faith. The Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Rosary in Doha is a notable example, serving thousands of worshippers every week. Additionally, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism are practiced by their respective expatriate communities, with dedicated temples and centers for worship. Even at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), we have an interfaith room, which serves as an important symbol for religious dialogue. It is a coexistence where no one tries to diminish each other. From what I have observed, the Muslim majority does not overshadow the presence of Christians, Hindus, and others, nor do the latter threaten the former. This interreligious understanding in Qatar has brought me a profound sense of belonging.

Living in Qatar has profoundly shaped my identity, giving me a more global perspective as I encounter and interact with diverse ways of living. This exposure has shown me that there are many ways to see the world, influenced by various faiths, cultures, and practices. While I carry my Filipino heritage with pride, I also embrace and learn from the cultures around me. For instance, people often greet me with "Kumusta ka?" (Hello, how are you?) when they learn I'm from the Philippines, and they eagerly ask for more phrases. This cultural exchange goes both ways, as I also pick up elements from other cultures. I would always ask my friends about their own culture and learn a little bit of their language. The constant interaction with diverse perspectives has taught me to keep an open mind. It is a gift to have this multicultural environment just meters away, allowing me to learn about different cultures almost anytime. This openness to various opinions and ways of living has broken my bubble and created a more inclusive space for everyone.

Studying in Qatar really created a unique identity that has greatly impacted my personal and academic life. From the grand mosques and traditional souk to the bustling campuses like Georgetown University in Qatar, filled with students from around the globe, each day in Qatar is a lesson in cultural immersion. This diverse environment has pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new traditions, and develop a deep respect for the different practices that shape daily life here. At the same time, maintaining connections with my Filipino heritage and engaging with the expatriate community have allowed me to create a well-rounded and enriched worldview. Through this blend of experiences, I have gained invaluable insights into what it means to live in a truly global society.