Chaimaa Radouani

Chaimaa Radouani is an external doctorate candidate in African Studies at Leiden University, where she researches the migratory ambitions and pathways of sub-Saharan African migrants in Morocco, particularly Nigerian migrants. Her research focuses on the moment when migrants realize that Morocco is no longer just a transit point to Europe, but a place where they choose to settle permanently. Prior to her PhD studies, Chaimaa earned an MA in Gender and Women's Studies in the MENA Region from American University in Cairo, Egypt, and was granted the African Graduate Fellowship. Her thesis, titled "Dreams of an Elsewhere or Aspiring to Stay? Navigating Anxious Youthhood and Migration in Morocco", looked at Moroccan youth's migration aspirations as well as the socioeconomic and cultural elements that influence their decisions, with a focus on class and gender. Her MA coursework, as well as her involvement in the DiaMigo Autumn Research Academy at the University of Cologne, aroused a strong interest in Middle Eastern and African migration and refugee dynamics. During her MA, Chaimaa contributed as a Teaching Assistant, earning the "Teaching Assistants Professional Development TAPD" certification, and conducted research and content development at the university's Office of Student Life, focusing on student engagement and leadership initiatives.

Chaimaa earned her Bachelor’s degree in English Linguistics from Hassan II University in Mohammedia, Morocco, where she was ranked first in her major. Her BA thesis, titled “Moroccan University Students’ Use of Critical Thinking in Speech Delivery,” explored the application of critical thinking skills in public speaking among university students. In addition to her academic interests, Chaimaa has considerable teaching experience, having worked with young people via several Moroccan associations. She has volunteered in a variety of roles, including counselling, directing debate clubs, and facilitating public speaking. She is devoted to working with the youth and incorporates this commitment into her academic work.

Recent publications:

         Radouani, C. (2024). Dreams of an Elsewhere or Aspiring to Stay? Navigating Anxious Youthhood and Migration in Morocco [Master's Thesis, the American University in Cairo]. AUC Knowledge Fountain.