What it means to be Kuwaiti

By Nourah AlOseimi
Special to The Times Kuwait

It is that time of year again. Depending on how things are going for you at this moment, you may read that opening statement with a renewed sense of optimism or perhaps with a snort of derision. Personally, I hope it is the former. More specifically, this piece of work and everything I have ever written has only ever had one clear message, a message of hope.

Every year during Kuwait’s National and Liberation Day celebrations, I observe as our beloved country lights up as a jewel with pearlescent shades of green, red, black and white. Watching as these colors reflect on different surfaces: skyscrapers, windshields, or the lens of a child’s glasses, reminds me how easy it is to find beauty in the simplest of places.

Kuwait, and by extension, the people within it are remarkably recognized for their sense of humility, hospitality and openness towards individuals from all walks of life. Our nation is a melting pot of cultures, communities and perspectives all intertwined under one home. A home that is not perfect but is built on the strongest of foundations. A foundation of unity, fairness and equality.

Kuwait, long recognized for its humanitarian efforts, charitable giving, and unwavering commitment to fighting injustices worldwide, has been especially steadfast in its governmental and grassroots-driven support for Palestine. Kuwait, a nation blessed with abundance, refuses to accept anything less for others. To be Kuwaiti is to stand by those in need, embrace the power of dialogue and stand firmly against injustice in all its forms.

Over the past few years, Kuwait has expanded its horizons, drawing in investments and opportunities from global powerhouses that recognize its economic potential. But at its core, the real strength of this country has always been its people. The warm-spirited men and women who work tirelessly in pursuit of their dreams, goals, and ambitions.

The innovators, disruptors, and trailblazers—those who do not just ask ‘what’, but challenge the ‘why,’ leading them down untapped paths brimming with unrealized potential. In a world that is constantly changing, and with the endless noise of comparison, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But at the heart of everything, what defines us is not what we own or how we are perceived, but the way we show up for one another.

It is in the kindness extended to a stranger; in the small acts of generosity that require no recognition; in the courage to stand up for what is right even when it is not the easy choice. That is the true Kuwaiti spirit that I see day in and day out. A resounding strength to stand tall and endure. I often find myself wondering…what does the Kuwait of tomorrow look like?

It is a Kuwait that embraces innovation. It is a Kuwait that continues to invest in knowledge, in science, in the minds that will lead us forward, not just within our borders, but on a global stage. And at the heart of all of this, it is a Kuwait that never forgets its core values: kindness, generosity, resilience, and empathy. The same values that have carried us through history, that have defined who we are, and that will continue to shape the nation we strive to be.

Every conversation, every action, every decision we make has the power to shape the Kuwait of tomorrow. I urge you to reflect on these ideas, to ask yourself: How can I contribute to shaping the Kuwait of tomorrow? And more importantly, how can I ensure my purpose translates into meaningful action towards the betterment of Kuwait?

As I unwind after a long night of writing and reflection, I would like to close this article by answering the core question offered in its title, what does being Kuwaiti mean to me?

I find my answer in the simplest of truths, being Kuwaiti means carrying the glory of our past, the pride of our present, and the responsibility for our future. It is not just where I am from, it is what I stand for.

About the author

Nourah AlOseimi is a 32-year-old freelance contributing columnist to The Times Kuwait. Her work explores themes of national identity, creativity and entrepreneurship. Message from the author: As we bask in the lovely celebrations and festivities during this time of year, let us not forget those who need us most. Please consider donating to our brothers and sisters in Gaza.