Over 10,000 residents call the DQ home. Meet Your Neighbor profiles interesting people in our international DQ Community. Learn about the diverse experience, interests, and backgrounds of DQ dwellers. Read on, and Meet Your Neighbor.
Tell us about yourself.
I am a Mexican diplomat who moved to Riyadh 10 months ago. My name is not that common in Mexico, because I am also third generation Lebanese; my grandfather migrated to Mexico and established his family there. (Unfortunately I don’t speak Arabic, which would be useful now that I live in Saudi!) I consider myself a nomad by profession and by choice and, while I love traveling, I am particularly motivated by moving to places and experiencing how people live there. I like to understand what moves countries and their people.
How would family and friends describe you?
I think they would describe me as a passionate and determined person… and also a fun one. Hopefully they also think I am a good friend! Honestly, my friends and family are pillars in my life, especially during the uncertain times that come with moving between places. I am very lucky and thankful to have such supportive family and friends in Mexico and scattered around the world.
Who or what have been the strongest influences in your life?
My parents are my strongest influences, because of who they are and how they raised me. They are both retired now but are very accomplished professionals that built everything from scratch. They also happen to be the most generous and noble people I know. They raised me to believe that I could accomplish anything I wanted and have supported me all the way.
What brought you to Riyadh?
My job. Saudi Arabia is my second posting as a diplomat. I saw this position as an opportunity to contribute to a closer Mexico-KSA relationship in trade aspects and to do so through the lens of a Mexican woman.
What led you to your career and how has Saudi Arabia helped you in your career goals?
In high school, I started learning about diplomacy and I knew it was my thing. I was particularly interested in commercial diplomacy, so my B.A. is actually in international business. Being a diplomat is one of those professions that are also a lifestyle; it is not just about what your interests are but also about who you are. With regards to Saudi Arabia, I was excited and honored to take on the challenge of being the first female diplomat that Mexico posts to its Embassy in Riyadh, so that definitely played a role. It is a privilege to be here and to contribute — even if mildly— to the Embassy’s efforts to increase the economic and trade relationship between Mexico and Saudi Arabia.
What do you like most about the DQ?
I like that it is practical and – if you want to – you can do your life here. You have supermarkets, cafes, restaurants, parks, and most of my work and social activities I go to are also in the DQ. A bonus is that I live very close to my office and to a Mexican restaurant, so the “Mexican” aspect of my daily routine is definitely there. But honestly, my favorite DQ activity is grabbing a book or my computer and going to one of the less-known cafes to read and write on the weekends.
Any tips/recommendations/advice for your DQ neighbors?
Join the groups. I think that there are always new people moving to the DQ and also many people who are very experienced about Riyadh and the DQ, so you can find valuable information and meet fun and interesting people if you engage both in WhatsApp groups and DQ activities.
