Definition:

Meraki: “The Soul, creativity or love put into something; the essence of yourself that is put into your work or anything that you do.”

 

Pronunciation: “mA – rak – E”

Origin: “Greek”

 

Meraki, a verb, or adverb, a Modern Greek word, derived from the Turkish “Merak” (Labour of love, to do something with pleasure), is applied to tasks, usually, creative or artistic tasks, but can be applied to any task at all. It means to do something with passion, with absolute devotion, with undivided attention.

 

Meraki is to put your soul into something, to put a little bit of yourself into it, be it singing, 
dancing, or painting. It can be the simplest of tasks, such as making a cup of coffee for your husband; helping someone in need or learning something new. As long as you did it with love, with devotion, you did it with Meraki!

 

Meraki Dance Company (MDC) represents empowerment and self-development of the mind, body and soul, through the development and nurturing of talents and by enhancing creativity through the use of music, dance creative expression.

Meraki represents strength and the creative background of every individual in their own respect. In order words; it portrays individuality and gives an idea as to where each student came from and what they have to offer.

 

The word Meraki also means “from scratch,” in the sense that each student begins their journey with a clean slate and is considered to be no more or less than anyone else. The name “Meraki” was purposefully chosen, as it indirectly reminds each individual of where they came from, where others are trying to elevate from and the situations they have the power to improve.

Meraki is versatile and as such it thrives on change, growth and development as times change.

 

In order words Meraki represents the embodiment of “Swag.” The word “Swag” is a slang which represents a variety of things. Swag can represent the way in which someone dresses, walks, talks, acts, dances, etc. in general, the word “swag” represents individuality, personality, and uniqueness. Swag can’t be categorised as one thing since no two persons are the same, however, everyone has their own way of doing everything, which sets them aside from the rest, thus allowing them to have their own “swag.”

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Meraki sets a standard that is attainable through hard work and dedication and can be compared to the definition of the word “royalty.” The word “Royalty” in reference to Meraki isn’t intended to give any student the impression that they are of more value or importance than another; however, it represents the value of one’s life and the many talents they possess. By referring to an individual as “royalty,” you bestow upon them great responsibility and respect, thus giving them the opportunity to live up too or maintain such position of importance.

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Meraki in a nutshell basically brings together people of various backgrounds, giving them the opportunity to develop and display their numerous talents in hope that they gain a sense of self-worth, responsibility and a positive perspective on life in general.