In this edition of I Am Merkle, we’re celebrating Arab American History Month by getting to know Nadine Zerouki, a Paid Social Manager at Merkle. Read on to learn about Nadine’s professional journey, her interests outside of work, and more.
1. Tell us about yourself; where did you grow up? Where do you live now? What is your cultural background or heritage?
I was born in Tizi Ouzou, Algeria. My family immigrated to the US (Buffalo, NY) in 1997 during the Algerian Civil War, but I now call Chicago home! I am Amazigh, which is the indigenous population of North Africa. More specifically, I am from the Kabyle group.
2. What drew you to your career? How might your values or cultural influences have influenced your career choice?
I have had a fascination with social media since the early days. I was on all the early social media platforms: Myspace, Xanga, LiveJournal…you name it, I probably had a profile. I would say being Algerian-American influenced me to get my master’s degree in the Marketing field. I originally went to school for fashion as an undergrad and my parents desperately wanted me to get a master’s degree in the business or communications field.
3. If you could have any occupation in the world, what would it be?
I would love to work in the fashion and beauty industry. I really want to incorporate both my degrees into my work.
4. What is your biggest accomplishment?
Moving to Chicago on my own. Generally, in Algerian culture, you stay close to where your family is, but I’ve always had a bit of wanderlust and desire to live in a big city. Moving out on my own in a big city has been the best experience and a big accomplishment.
5. What is a moment in your life that defined or shaped who you are today?
Again, probably moving to Chicago. Within the first two months of living here, I had a big family emergency occur in Buffalo where my parents live, and I was able to find a great community to help me through those dark times. This city has continued to shape who I am every single day!
6. What inspires you about Merkle’s workplace culture and how does this align with your values?
I love that Merkle and dentsu encourage anyone to speak up and lead. The ‘We All Lead’ of the 8 Ways has encouraged me to put forth my ideas even when I was in my first few months of employment with the company. I knew that my manager and colleagues would listen and help push those ideas to fruition.
7. What does Arab American Heritage Month mean to you?
This month really encourages me to not only experience my culture but learn more about other Middle East and North African (MENA) culture. I think a lot of the time people have this idea that MENA people are monolithic, especially due to media portrayal, but this month is a chance to learn how truly vast culture and traditions are within the region.
8. What is your favorite custom, ritual, or tradition throughout the year and what makes it significant to you?
Kabyle weddings are my favorite custom. I haven’t been to a wedding in quite some time, but Algerians go all out. We usually take three days for the wedding, and it includes inviting the entire neighborhood, tons of great food and desserts, amazing music and dancing (Idir and Ait Menguellet are always on the playlist), and of course multiple costume changes for the bride!
9. What is something about your heritage that you are proud of or want to share with people?
One thing I’m most proud of is how resilient Algerians are. We have had a lot of struggles but always are proud about our culture and maintain who we are. My father is a great example of this. He has experienced three different Algerias: French-occupied Algeria, the Algerian revolution, and post-war independence, and then later moved his family to a different country where we’ve kept a strong tie to our culture and traditions.
10. Rapid fire:
Favorite food? Panang Curry, or just Thai food in general!
Favorite book? Uncultured by Daniella Mestyanek Young. Such a great memoir and super heart-wrenching to read.
Favorite podcast? Cults to Consciousness or Scam Goddess
Favorite TV show/movie? RuPaul’s Drag Race, especially the international franchises!
Favorite hobby/activity? Olympic weightlifting. I started lifting locally in 2022 and have started doing local Illinois weightlifting meets. By the time this posted, I will have just competed at Illinois State Championships.
Guilty Pleasure? Rewatching old seasons of Drag Race (5, 6, & 8) are my faves. And scrolling TikTok.
Favorite quote? I don’t really have one…
Best advice or mantra to live by? Don’t stress about the things you can’t control.
About the Author
Nadine Zerouki is a paid social marketer based in Chicago. During her 2.5 years at dentsu/Merkle, she has worked on B2B paid social and has begun working in consumer paid social. Nadine is an avid fan of reality television, weightlifting, and exploring Chicago restaurants and cafes.
