My mother was and still is the dearest person to me, because of her dedication and sacrifices in raising my brother and me on her own. The expression on her face shows her sincerity and kindness. Her smile reflects the optimism that she held onto until her last breath. That’s why I put her photo in my handbag rather than in my suitcase because I was afraid to lose it when I left my home and my country on the October 1, 1991.

The bowl was given to me by my grandmother as a gift. It comes from Mecca. I think of it as a memento of my grandmother, but also as a piece of heritage.