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Updated: 16 min ago / 40 Under 40 Honorees of 2024

40 Under 40: Travel entrepreneur Khadija El Barkaoui is helping fellow immigrants pursue their dreams

Photo / Tim Greenway Khadija El Barkaoui founded Coelle Travel to bring people together through authentic experiences and to support women in tourism.
Khadija El Barkaoui, 31 Founder, Coelle Travel Read about all the 40 Under 40 honorees and a special event to recognize them.
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Significant professional accomplishment: I’m incredibly proud to be an example of educational achievement, having completed my Ph.D. and setting an example for my family and town in Morocco, where girls’ education still faces many challenges.

I’m also proud of my work supporting organizations locally and globally by intentionally and strategically designing programs that serve our communities and make a significant impact. Building my startup, Coelle Travel, here in Maine has been a journey of staying true to the values instilled in me and the lessons learned from my life experiences. Our goal is to bring people together through authentic experiences, honoring Indigenous cultures, supporting women in tourism and girls’ education, and creating community-based experiences that are kind to our planet.

In addition to my work with Coelle Travel, I am deeply committed to supporting international talent in Maine. By leveraging my connections and experience, I assist fellow immigrants in pursuing their career aspirations and utilizing their full skills in our state, including helping them with their entrepreneurial ventures. This dedication is deeply personal to me as an immigrant and Indigenous person of the Amazigh people of North Africa.

Current state of mind: Hopeful.

Passion project: My passion for connecting people finds its fullest expression through founding Coelle Travel. I also take great joy in sharing my culture through food by hosting private Moroccan dinners and curated food experiences. I have the pleasure of introducing others to the vibrant stories and traditions of my Amazigh and Moroccan heritage.

Audacious goal: Create an initiative that ensures every girl has the opportunity to pursue her education.

Favorite quote: “Our stories, our music, and our traditions are vital parts of who we are. Preserving and revitalizing our cultures is an act of resistance and resilience” Mali Obomsawin

Influential book: “Braiding Sweetgrass,” by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Favorite movie or TV show: “Street Food” (documentary) and “Bridgerton”

Best way to recharge: When I’m not working, I recharge by enjoying Moroccan tea (Atay) with a family member or friend; taking long, reflective walks; and sometimes cooking.

At age 60: I envision myself living in a small town with my family, ideally by the water or in the mountains, surrounded by animals like chickens, goats, bunnies and cows. I also look forward to gardening more, continuing to learn about the world, and helping others connect with different people and cultures.

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