Draft:Siham Tufali Activist

Siham Tufali: A Voice for the Forgotten – Championing Berber Identity in Modern Times

Born on June 10, 1999, in Nador, a town nestled in the Beni Sidel region of Morocco, Siham Tufali grew up in Melilla, Spain, a culturally diverse city that shaped her perspective on identity and belonging. From an early age, Siham witnessed the quiet struggles of her people—the Berbers, also known as the Amazigh—whose rich cultural heritage has often been marginalized or overlooked in modern times.

At the heart of Siham's journey stands the profound influence of her grandmother, Fátima Bouhaddou, born in Uach Rif, a small village rooted in Berber traditions. Fátima instilled in Siham a deep appreciation for their language, culture, and history, regaling her with stories of resilience and pride. Before her passing, Fátima entrusted Siham with a sacred promise: to fight tirelessly to ensure that the Berber language, culture, and roots would never fade into obscurity. This promise became the driving force behind Siham’s activism, fueling her determination to empower the younger generation to embrace their heritage and identity.

For Siham, the Berber culture is not just a remnant of the past—it is a living testament to the resilience of a people who have weathered centuries of change and adversity. However, the challenges of preserving this heritage are immense. With globalization and modern influences often overshadowing traditional values, many young Berbers find themselves disconnected from their linguistic and cultural roots.

In mid-2025, Siham is launching a groundbreaking initiative to revitalize the Berber language and culture among the younger generation. This initiative aims to reconnect Berber youth with their heritage through educational programs, workshops, and cultural events. By emphasizing the beauty and importance of their history, Siham hopes to inspire pride and a sense of belonging in young Berbers.

Central to this initiative is the preservation of the Tamazight language, one of the cornerstones of Berber identity. With fewer people speaking Tamazight in their daily lives, Siham sees an urgent need to reverse this trend. Her programs will focus on teaching the language through creative and accessible methods, ensuring its survival for generations to come.

Siham's activism extends beyond language preservation. She advocates for the recognition and celebration of Berber traditions, from music and art to cuisine and storytelling. She believes that by showcasing the richness of Berber culture, the world will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of this ancient civilization.

Through her work, Siham is not only honoring her grandmother's legacy but also paving the way for a brighter future for the Berber people. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of one individual's dedication to preserving a collective heritage. For Siham, this is not just a fight for culture—it is a fight for identity, belonging, and pride.

As she often says: “Our roots are not a burden—they are our wings. Let us never forget who we are, for in remembering, we thrive.”