Essraa Nawar is the Associate Dean for Library DEI Initiatives and Development (Full Librarian) at Chapman University. She hosts “Salon Essraa: The TV Show Telling Inspiring Stories One Egyptian Expat at a Time” and co-hosts the podcast “Information Gone Wild,” sponsored by San Jose State University. Her academic and librarianship journey, shaped by diverse education and experiences, includes time at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Washington D.C.
Her commitment to empowering Muslim women, promoting cultural understanding, and bridging cultural divides echoes throughout her publications, social media presence, and public speaking engagements. 

Believing in the transformative power of individual actions, she dedicates herself to bringing change. Outside of her advocacy work, she enjoys vinyasa yoga, traveling, and reading. She also cherishes spending quality time with her husband and three children: two sons in college, aged 21 and 20, and a 14-year-old daughter. They share a passion for traveling, sports, and building friendships with people from around the world.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Alexandria University, an MBA from the American Management & Business Administration Institute in Cambridge, MA, an MA in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University in California, and an MLIS from San Jose State University in California. “I’ve recently been accepted to pursue my PhD in educational leadership, and I’m currently deciding between this exciting opportunity or diving into writing my book “Life is a Package,” a long-time dream project of mine.”

Nawar moved to the United States in 2002, at 21, after completing her undergraduate degree at Alexandria University. Following her marriage, she and her husband relocated to the D.C. area for graduate school, he, a PhD, and she, an MBA. Since then, she has split her time between the east and west coasts of the U.S.

Her journey from Egypt to the United States was fueled by a desire for personal growth and new experiences. Having attended an American school as a child, she was eager to explore the country beyond what she knew from media and literature. Her move allowed her to immerse herself in American culture firsthand, “beyond the idealized portrayals seen in shows like ‘Friends,’” she explains.

However, the transition came with challenges. Being far from family was difficult, especially in the post-9/11 climate marked by heightened Islamophobia and limited communication options compared to today.

Despite these hurdles, her husband provided unwavering support, and they both completed their graduate degrees while raising their two sons, who are just a year apart. Throughout their journey, they formed friendships with people from diverse backgrounds, and went on memorable road trips. “It was a journey that tested and strengthened us in countless ways.”

Esraa has three children. who are all fluent in Arabic. Mohamed, 20, studies data science and business administration at Chapman University while also participating in the Air Force ROTC at USC’s aerospace program. He aims for a career as a pilot or in special operations. He is also a former US Junior Olympics gymnast with national record. 

Seif H. El-Askary studies health sciences with a focus on pre-physical therapy at Chapman University, minoring in neuroscience and conducting research. Seif aims to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy. Alongside his academic pursuits, he has excelled in athletics as a former Junior Olympic US Diver. He also has a strong passion for art and music, winning numerous competitions and performing on stage with renowned artists during his childhood.

Hania, my 13-year-old daughter, is finishing middle school. She is a talented pianist, full time ballerina, percussionist, and artist.

“Raising my children has been an enriching journey, but we’ve faced some challenges along the way. One significant challenge was maintaining their connection to our heritage while living in a multicultural environment. At home, we spoke Arabic to reinforce their language skills, and frequent visits to Egypt helped strengthen that connection. Recently, my mother stayed with us for six months, which further helped them stay rooted in their heritage.”

They also maintained a diverse circle of friends to teach their kids respect for people from different backgrounds. They encouraged confidence-building sports and activities. “Parenting doesn’t come with a manual, and I’ve learned to adapt as we navigate these experiences together.”

They instill pride in their children’s Egyptian roots through storytelling, teaching them Arabic, and emphasizing their traditions. Participating in cultural activities and sharing stories of prominent Egyptians also helps the kids understand their heritage. 

They seize opportunities to meet Egyptian legends like Dr. Magdy Yacoub and Dr. Zahi Hawass, and share these experiences with friends. They attend Egyptian-related exhibitions and host Egyptian nights at home, sharing food, music, and traditions with American friends. The widespread fascination with ancient Egyptian civilization makes it easy to inspire pride in their heritage. “Egypt is a country that anyone who hears its name is proud of, and we couldn’t be prouder.”

Nawar believes maintaining their Egyptian identity and heritage is essential. Without a clear sense of identity, challenges arise, as seen in American and Western societies. Knowing one’s roots provides a solid foundation for navigating identity struggles and fitting in.

They achieve this by speaking Arabic, she prepares Egyptian food for her and the family and friends, “it’s a great way to reconnect with my roots. I have to confess, though, that my husband is actually the better cook in the family!” They celebrate Egyptian holidays, and  love to watch Egyptian movies on TV. “We also watch the news, and pretty much everything else,” she says, “and the kids love Egyptian music!”  

They also try to visit Egypt at least once a year. Despite occasional struggles, Nawar has noticed that kids always return to their heritage, as seen with their friends’ older kids.

Living in the U.S., Nawar upholds Egyptian culture by decorating for holidays like Ramadan, Eid, and Sham El-Nessim, and serving as a board member and president of an Egyptian American organization. They also celebrate with their Coptic Egyptian friends during their holidays and cherish Egypt’s beauty and history with their family. “Whenever I see the Egyptian flag or hear the anthem, I feel a deep sense of pride and nostalgia. The music reminds me of my childhood and the vibrant culture that shaped me. My kids developed a sense of love and pride to both too, in my office i have both the Egyptian and US flags.”

Simultaneously, Nawar immerses their kids in American culture. They celebrate Halloween, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, and Thanksgiving, often adding an Egyptian touch to their traditions. The blend of cultures is truly lovely.

Nawar faces some cultural or societal challenges as an Egyptian woman living in the USA, particularly regarding stereotypes and misconceptions about Muslim women in Hijab. To navigate these challenges, I’ve shared my story and engaged with diverse audiences to foster understanding. I’ve given a TED talk where I address common questions about headscarves and other aspects of my identity.

I also use my social media campaign, #ChangeTheNarrative, to redefine how the world views Muslim women. Through podcasts, TV shows, articles, panel discussions, and even organizing an Egyptian-themed Girl Scout event, I address and overcome the cultural challenges I face in the USA.”

Nawar’s career highlights three significant moments blending her Egyptian heritage with life in the USA. She curated “Egypt: The Revolution Continues,” featuring Ali Mustafa’s Tahrir Square photos, in collaboration with the Egyptian embassy in LA.  At Chapman University, Nawar hosted the late MP Anissa Hassouna, moderating panels on her book and preserving Hassouna’s impactful lecture in the university’s archives. In addition, Her article, “Egypt is Changing the Narrative: One Woman at a Time!” celebrated her recognition among top Egyptian women abroad, showcasing Egypt’s efforts, led by the National Council for Women, to empower women and reshape societal perceptions.

Essraa’s journey spans over two decades, filled with significant milestones that she cherishes, particularly her family—her children and her husband of 22 years. Among her achievements, she takes pride in launching Salon Essraa, a TV show spotlighting inspiring stories of Egyptian expatriates, and ascending to Associate Dean of the Library at Chapman University while earning three master’s degrees. Her leadership as president of the Egyptian American Organization underscored her commitment to community service.

Beyond academia, Essraa has used her writing to challenge and reshape narratives about Muslim women, contributing impactful articles to platforms like HuffPost and making scholarly contributions. Her influence extends widely; recognized as one of Orange County’s 125 Most Influential People and honored as a Woman of Influence, she represented Forbes during Arab American Heritage Month, advocating for Egypt’s inclusion in the U.S. Census. 

Acknowledged among the top 30 Egyptian women abroad, she describes this recognition as profoundly meaningful. Essraa’s accomplishments reflect her passion for changing narratives, celebrating heritage, and empowering communities.

Essraa emphasizes the importance of integration for building relationships and opportunities. She advises new immigrants to find common ground, celebrate their heritage, and contribute positively to their communities. In her TED Talk, she stresses the value of embedding oneself in society without losing identity.

For Egyptian women in the USA, Essraa advises authenticity and pride in their roots. She encourages finding supportive communities that understand their heritage and provide grounding. Active engagement in events aligned with personal values empowers and opens doors to opportunities. Networking with fellow Egyptians and self-advocacy are also crucial for navigating life effectively. “These strategies have helped me navigate life in the USA, and I hope they can guide others too,” says Essraa.