Nenet Character Analysis in Girl, Woman, Other

Nenet is one of Yazz’s three best friends that make up her squad, “The Unfuckables.” Nenet is Egyptian and has a boyfriend to whom she’s arranged to be married. Much to Waris’s frustration, Nenet identifies as Mediterranean, refusing to call herself Black or African. Her family in Egypt is wealthy and well connected, and in London, they live in a mansion, complete with domestic servants. Nenet is always decked out in designer clothes, and she later admits that she pays someone to do her schoolwork for her, which is why her grades are so high. In light of these revelations, Yazz starts to question their friendship,. Nenet’s story reveals how class complicates racial and ethnic identity. Nenet’s deeply internalized racism leaves her wanting to distance herself from her African identity.

Nenet Character Timeline in Girl, Woman, Other

The timeline below shows where the character Nenet appears in Girl, Woman, Other. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

Contradiction, Complexity, and Intersectionality Theme Icon

The fourth member of the squad, Nenet, is already engaged through an arranged marriage. She resisted at first, but quickly gave in... (full context)

One night Waris, Yazz, and Nenet dance to their favorite Egyptian singer. Courtney, a white girl, knocks on the door in... (full context)

Nenet invites Courtney in and teaches her how to dance. Courtney is having fun “belly dancing,”... (full context)

They meet up with Nenet at her house, where a maid lets them in through the imposing security gate. While... (full context)

They talk about college and their ambitious summer plans. Nenet reveals that she pays someone to write her essays. Yazz is shocked and angry that... (full context)