Ep 330. Pinky Selim: Reviving Egyptian Folklore for a Generation That Almost Forgot It
Pinky Selim is a banker by profession, a dancer by passion, and the founder of the AUC Alumni Folklore Group, a troupe dedicated to reviving Egyptian folkloric dance. While studying at the American University in Cairo, she was deeply involved in the university’s folklore club, and after graduation, she couldn’t imagine letting go of this art form. In 2013, with the support of AUC’s Alumni Office, she launched AUC Alum Folk to preserve and celebrate Egyptian heritage through performance and education. Inspired by legends like Mahmoud Reda and Farida Fahmy, Pinky has choreographed and staged numerous shows that bring folklore to life for new generations. As a proud mother and twin sister, she leads a growing troupe of dancers of all ages, teaching workshops and organizing performances that honor the richness and diversity of Egyptian folk traditions.
In this episode you will learn about:
How a simple alumni club became a full dance company
The deep influence of her father on Pinki’s view of music and culture
The growing disconnection between young Egyptians and their own cultural heritage
Why teaching folklore felt urgent in a culture where kids mock their own language
What it takes to lead amateurs who dance like pros
Show Notes to this episode:
Find Pinky Selim on Instagram, and Instagram page of AUC Alumni Folklore.
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