What does it mean to grow up queer in the Middle East while holding onto your sense of self? Maddie Q shares their beautifully chaotic journey from Saudi Arabia and Jordan to discovering personal freedom and self-expression in Australia.
Non-binary and vibrant with both masculine and feminine energy, Maddie reflects on navigating queer identity in the Middle East, growing up Muslim and becoming spiritual, and the ongoing path toward family connection and radical self-acceptance. They speak candidly about their pilgrimage to Mecca—praying for good hair along the way—and how hair became a symbol of rebellion, release, and living truthfully.
Maddie reminds us that being authentic is holy.