Rabat, Morocco – A Canadian-Moroccan lawyer is spearheading an initiative aimed at strengthening ties between young Moroccans living abroad and their homeland. Hiba El Aidi launched “Morocco With Purpose” four years ago as a personal project to explore questions of identity and belonging for members of the diaspora.
El Aidi, who grew up in Canada, founded the program to create a space for young Moroccans around the world to reconnect with their roots and contribute to Moroccan culture. The initiative has since evolved into a creative movement, and is now partnering with the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication.
This summer, “Morocco With Purpose” will select 50 young Moroccans between the ages of 20 and 30 who grew up outside of Morocco. Participants will spend a week in Rabat, starting on July 21, 2025, immersed in Moroccan culture. The program’s theme this year will center around football and the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025), recognizing the sport’s unifying power. The initiative aims to foster a sense of community and shared identity among young Moroccans globally.
“If there’s one thing that brings us together across borders, it’s football — and this year, Morocco is at the heart of it all,” El Aidi said in a LinkedIn post announcing the fourth edition of the program. Applications are currently being accepted, with initial contact planned for next week. More information and registration details can be found here.
El Aidi’s work builds on a broader discussion of Moroccan values among youth in the diaspora. She participated in a round-table discussion in June 2023 on the topic, emphasizing the importance of exchange and skill-building within the Moroccan community, according to CCME.
