People

Egypt’s Prime Minster Awards Lawyer Sue Ellen Hassouna for Implementing the National Anti Corruption Strategy.

December 9, 2020

The Administrative Control Authority and Prime Minister of Egypt Award Lawyer Sue Ellen Hassouna; Member and Legal Expert on The Board of Trustees of The Arbitration & Disputes Centre For Settling Non-Banking Financial Disputes, in appreciation to her efforts to implement the national anti corruption strategy. .Continue reading ..

Lamia Kamel emphasizes her support for Egyptian women during MBC Al Amal’s conference

Cairo, Egypt – December 1st, 2020

Lamia Kamel, CEO of CC Plus and Founder of Narrative Summit, participated today in MBC Al Amal’s “Mashrou Amal” event. She was featured as a panellist on the Women’s Entrepreneurship panel among other industry leaders. Kamel discussed her support for aspiring female entrepreneurs and highlighted the challenges they face, most notably maintaining financial liquidity flow, designing marketing strategies, and building a successful team that contributes to the success of their project. continue reading ..

Dr. Hoda ElMaraghy Receives The Order of Canada

November 28, 2020 

Dr. Hoda Elmaraghy

Dr. Hoda ElMaraghy received theThe Order of Canada, from Canada’s Governor General, Her Excellency the Right Honorable Julie Payette, for her contributions to the field of mechanical engineering, notably for her work in advancing manufacturing systems in Canada and abroad.  The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest civilian honours. Created in 1967, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. .. continue reading ..

What 6 entrepreneurs wished they knew before they started?

November 27, 2020
Alexandra Kinias

We read success stories of start-ups, see entrepreneurs receive awards in glamorous ceremonies, smile to cameras in confidence and pride, and the dream of quitting our jobs and joining their ranks flashes in front of our eyes. We fantasize about these moments when our stories and photos are published in financial and entrepreneurial magazines. Of course the sky is the limit, but dreams alone don’t bring success. The good news is success is achievable; pursuing it is tedious, though.  continue reading ..

Manal Hassan: The Angel in the Pandemic

November 23, 2020
By: May Allam 

Manal Hassan 

Since the start of COVID-19, Manal Hassan has spared no time, effort or resources to help people who contracted the virus, whether by providing them with food, medication or hospital beds. 

With a major in economics and a minor in business administration, the AUC graduate, started a business with her husband.  In 2007, she stepped out of the family business and worked as a financial consultant for multinationals before she joined the Arab African International Bank as Executive Director for AAIB foundation. Currently, she is working as the group director for sustainability for El Sewedy Electric Group. She is also the Vice President of El Sewedy Electric Foundation. continue reading ..

Meet Ayah Eissa, Coach of the Egyptian Armed Forces Tent Pegging Team

November 7, 2020 
By: Alexandra Kinias 

Distinguished national and international tent pegging champion, Ayah Eissa is also a gold badge referee. In addition, she is the only international certified tent pegging coach in Egypt, and the coach of the Egyptian armed forces tent pegging team… continue reading ..

Once Upon a Time – She Wanted to be Free

Saturday, October 29, 2020 
By: Nader Habib

The lead story of the 11 October 1933 issue of the newspaper Al-Aroussa was about Lotfia Al-Nadi, who at 26 years of age had just become Egypt’s first woman pilot. Born on 29 October 1907 to a regular, middle-class family, Lotfia went through her primary education and was expected to marry at an early age and become a housewife and mother. Her father, who worked for the Matbaa Amiriya, the government print house, didn’t believe that girls should go on to secondary education… continue reading ..

Rania Abdalla Launches a Female Mentorship Program for Women in Middle East and Africa

Monday September 23, 2020 
WoEgypt 

Rania Abdalla 

Rania Abdalla, Founder and Managing Director of Aspire HR Consultants, launches a Female Mentorship Program for women in the Middle East and Africa. She announced the launch of the program during the symposium “A Success Story” held online on September 9th, 2020 to celebrate the Emirati Women’s Day.. continue reading …

 

Architect Shahira Fahmy Wins Tamayouz Excellence Award 2019

Thursday October 24, 2019                       By: Tamayouz Award

image_providerArchitect Shahira Fahmy Wins   Tamayouz Award 2019 for Woman of Outstanding Achievement, Highly Commended. Tamayouz Excellence Award, established in 2012, is an independent initiative that aims to advance the profession of architecture both academically and professionally. In 2013, Tamayouz Excellence Award became the first ever award in the Middle East to have a dedicated award for women in architecture and construction. The awards are opened to architects, academics and students all over the world.…continue reading…

Nancy Hadi, The First Egyptian Goodwill Ambassador for Uganda Tourism in Egypt

Saturday September 28, 2019

71674264_522982171795305_7055387895770644480_nUgandan Minister of State for Tourism Honorable Godfrey Kiwanda appointed Nancy Hadi Goodwill Ambassador of Uganda Tourism in Egypt.

The official appointment took place on  Wednesday, September 18, 2019 during the Ministry of Tourism’s 10th Annual Tourism Sector Review Conference at Hotel Africana in Kampala, Uganda, which was attended by the Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism, and the Minister of State for Tourism.…continue reading…

Ten Egyptian Policewomen Join the UN Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO)

Monday September 2, 2019

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Photo via UN Information Center Cairo 

For the first time, ten Egyptian policewomen joined the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the United Nations announced on Wednesday, August 28. The female officers are assigned along with their male colleagues to patrols, escorts, protect of personnel, and securing UN facilities.…continue reading…

“It Gives Me Joy to Make People Laugh Out Loud”: Up-Close and Personal with Ute Devika Meinel

Wednesday August 28, 2019                   By: Alexandra Kinias

DSC_0018 EBelieving in the healing powers of laughter, Dr. Ute Devika Meinel, Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher, initiated a movement called Cairo Laughers. For two years, Devika together with a group of her students, offered laughter sessions for free at Al Azhar Park every Friday morning. Many people attended with the sole purpose of laughing. “Laughing is the most precious thing in life. It gives me a tremendous joy to get people to laugh out long and loud in groups.” Dr. Ute Devika Meinel tells WoE….continue reading…

Meet Egypt’s First Female CNC Lathe Instructor

Monday August 26, 2019                        By: Nihal Samir 

Amira-EssamEgyptian 26-year-old Amira Essam attempted to break the male monopoly over some professions, change the society’s view of women, and prove to the whole world that women can carry out any job and succeed just like men, through becoming the first female CNC Lathe instructor in Egypt.…continue reading….

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Architect Dalia Sadany Receives Golden Award in Italy for Cyber Security Museum

Saturday June 29, 2019                         By: Sherine Radwan

trend-micro-17Egyptian architect and the International Ambassador of Design, Dalia Sadany, received the Golden Award at the International “A’ Design Award & Competition” in Italy for her latest project, The Cyber Security Museum. The first qualitative museum in Egypt, is located at the Greek Campus in Cairo. It embodies the idea that ancient Egyptians were the first to develop the science of knowledge security, the basis of what became known today as IT Security.…continue reading…

8 Egyptians on Forbes List of Women Behind Middle Eastern Brands

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Sunday August 25, 2019

Forbes Middle East featured Eight Egyptian women, owners of five brands, on its first annual ranking of inspirational women behind Middle Eastern brands. Full List….. ...continue reading….

Body Artist Basma Shaheen Creates 3 Dimensional Human Canvases

Monday August 19, 2019                               By: Eman Ahmed

49629764_423191544887393_123691115344822272_nWith passion for painting and a talent in special effects makeup, Body Artist Basma Shahin is revolutionizing the art scene in Egypt through her 3D human canvases. A graduate from the Faculty of Fine Arts in 2019, Shahin had worked as a cinematic makeup artists on the set of some short movies and plays. While in college, she developed a passion for Body Art, and started studying the works of western artists in this field…..continue reading…

Tribute to Egypt’s Cinderella, Soad Hosny, On Her 18th Death Anniversary

More Than Just Your Cinderella: Beyond Soad Hosny’s Classic Tale

Friday June 21, 2019                By: Lara Ahmed

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If there ever was an actress who could rightfully claim the title of Egypt’s sweetheart, she would be, without any challenge, the late, Soad Hosny. Dubbed as Cinderella of Egyptian Cinema, Hosny is more than just a pretty face or a sad story. She radiated confidence, and starred in over 80 movies….continue reading…

Meet Zi, the Woman Behind Kefaya Plastic Campaign

Wednesday June 19, 2019                       By: WoE

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Zi, Photographer: Khaled Marzouk

Plastic, the scourge of the oceans and the imminent danger to marine life; It’s dangerous impact on the planet has reached a critical point. And while we are absorbed in our daily lives, we tend to forget that with even a minimum effort, we can make a difference and help combat this epidemic. Each one of us can play an important role to save our plant, simply by…continue reading…

Maggie Michael, Nariman ِEl-Mofty win Michael Kelly Award

Friday May 31, 2019                  WoE Staff

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Photo credit: About Her 

Associated Press investigative reporter Maggie Michael and photojournalist Nariman El-Mofty won the 2019 Michael Kelly Award for their extensive coverage of the conflict in Yemen. This award comes one month after they won the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting for the same reporting. The Michael Kelly Award, sponsored by the Atlantic Media Company, is awarded for “the fearless pursuit and expression of truth”; the prize is $25,000 for the winners.  Michael and Mofty are the first Egyptians to win both prizes….continue reading…

Meet the Entrepreneurs Behind Esparanza, One of the Best Nurseries in Cairo

Saturday May 18, 2019                             By: Kismat Mokhtar

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Bouthaina Al Agizi

“My childhood dream to become a teacher not only lived with me through my adult life, but it also grew and evolved.   Deep in my heart, I knew it was more than just becoming a teacher. I wanted to open a kindergarten, a nursery school for children,” said Co-founder and Managing Director of Esparanza Nursery School, Bouthaina Al Agizi, to WoE. After graduating with a degree in mass communication from the AUC in Cairo, Agizi worked as a TV producer for Reuters.…continue reading…

5 Reasons Zeinat Sedki Still Shines: Remembering Egypt’s Queen of Comedy

Saturday May 4, 2019                       By: Lara Ahmed

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Zeinat Sedki (1912-1978) cheered up every scene she played in. Her humorous lines have been tattooed in the Egyptian culture. They are still used by Egyptians in their everyday language, even four decades after her death. She played roles in over 150 movies, but never of the lead character. She appeared alongside movie icons such as Faten Hamama, Shadia, Hend Rostom and Ismail Yaseen to name a few...continue reading…

It’s Dalida’s Death Anniversary; But Legends Never Die

Friday May 3, 2019                    WoE

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Today marks the 32nddeath anniversary of Dalida – a tragic suicide of a diva at 54. Dalid committed suicide on the night of May 2, 1987 in her apartment in Paris. Born as Yolanda Gigliotti in Cairo in 1933 to a family of Italian immigrants, Dalida grew up in the neighborhood of Shubra. Her father worked as the principal violinist for the Cairo Opera.…continue reading…

Rags to Riches: Egyptian Chef Ghalia Mahmoud’s Rise to Stardom

Thursday May 2, 2019                   By: Alexandra Kinias

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The life of Ghalia Mahmoud (Set Ghalia) transformed overnight when her fairy godmother sprinkled her with sparkly dust of luck. The sensational Egyptian chef works on a tight schedule juggling the responsibilities of her newly opened restaurant. When not managing it, she is at her kitchen studio filming news episodes for her cooking show which airs on her YouTube channel…… .…continue reading…

Egyptian Choreographer Karima Mansour Writes International Dance Day Message

Monday April 29, 2019                     By: WoE

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Photo by: Cairo Contemporary Dance Center

Dancer, choreographer and dance educator, Karima MANSOUR, Founder of MAAT Contemporary Dance Company, has been selected by the Executive Council of the International Theater Institute ITI to write the message for the International Dance Day. This global event is celebrated worldwide since its creation in 1982, on April 29, the anniversary of the birth of Jean-Georges Noverre (1727–1810), the creator of modern ballet….continue reading…

Nour Elnemr’s Fabrics Tell A Story of Hope and Happiness

Monday April 29, 2019                        By: Alexandra Kinias

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Art has a healing therapy. Whether you are an art connoisseur or an artist, wandering through an art gallery or producing your own art, a colorful painting or a unique design will have a therapeutic and soothing effect on you. But for the young passionate artist and entrepreneur Nourhan Elnemr, art is not merely strokes of a brush or a home decorative accessory, but also a social responsibility….continue reading…

Two Egyptians Win the 2019 Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting.

Tuesday April 16, 2019                    – Women of Egypt

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Associated Press investigative reporter Maggie Michael and photojournalist Nariman El-Mofty won the 2019 Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting, for their extensive coverage of the conflict in Yemen. The Pulitzer Prize is American journalism’s most prestigious honor. The award was established in 1917 by publisher Joseph Pulitzer to honor the achievements of outstanding journalists….continue reading…

Egyptian Women in the U.N. Peacekeeping Forces

Monday April 14, 2019                   `By: Women of Egypt

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On April 8, Lieutenant General Elias Rodriguez Filho, commander of the DRC peacekeeping force, honored Lieutenant Colonel Sherihan Aboul Khair Roushdy Mohamed by awarding her the United Nations (UN) Medal. The medal parade ceremony was held at the force headquarters in the town of Goma, located east of Congo….continue reading...

Nourhan Rabie Turns Her Disney Princess’ Dreams Into A Business

Sunday April 7, 2019                        ــ By: Alexandra Kinias

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Nourhan Rabie

Every little girl’s dream is to become a princess. Some actually believe they are. They dress up like one, watch princesses’ movies, know their names by heart, and even have playdates with other princesses. They buy their products, eat their cakes, wear their crowns, and then they grow up and princesses become part of their childhood memories. Nourhan Rabie was not an exception. She also loved to dress up like Disney princesses…..continue reading…

Riham Shendy Revives Reading & Storytelling to Children in Colloquial Egyptian Dialect

Thursday March 21, 2019                    By: Riham Shendy

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As an intercultural couple living in the United States of America, my husband and I share strong aspirations to raise our children connected to their roots. It was important to us that our children spoke our mother-tongues to be able to communicate with their families and recognize and embrace their cultural heritages. Not to mention that being multilingual in a world that has become increasingly competitive would serve them well, especially ...continue reading….

A Call for Egyptian Woman to Embrace Their Unique Identity

Tuesday March 5, 2010                              By: Alexandra Kinias

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While it might sound redundant repeating that Egypt was the cradle of civilizations, the matter of fact is Egyptian history dates back to five thousand years. And as the world raves about Egypt, its culture, history and identity, many Egyptians not only have taken it for granted, but some are dissociating themselves from it and adopting other alien identities; forgetting that the Egyptian uniqueness was born from the cultural diversity that had woven its rich fabric.…continue reading…

Raghda Maksoud Aspires to Revive Aromatherapy in The Land of Its Birth

Tuesday February 19, 2019                    By: Alexandra Kinias

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Along the banks of the Nile, where the great Egyptian civilization flourished, substantial historic evidence indicates that essential oils and herbal medicines were discovered, developed and used in Egypt over 5,000 years ago. Ancient Egyptians used essential oils, aromatic incense and perfume in their everyday lives for medicinal, religious and cosmetic purposes. In ancient Egyptian mythology, the lotus flower essence was even believed to help in the resurrection….continue reading….

A Possible Utopia, Mervat Abdel-Nasser’s Attempt to Resurrect Ancient Egypt

Wednesday February 13, 2019               By: Nahed Nasr – WoE – Al Ahram Weekly

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Abdel-Nasser and the children of Tuna Al-Gebel during Thoth’s Festival in New Hermopolis photo credit: Ramy Nouh

The fourth Thoth Festival opened on 26 October, 2019 at New Hermopolis, a non-profit development founded by Mervat Abdel-Nasser in the town of Tuna Al-Gebel, the site of the necropolis of Khmun (aka Hermopolis Magna). This was the western part of the ancient city named after Hermes, the Greek incarnation of the Egyptian god Thoth, whose eastern part is present-day Al-Ashmunein, not far from another important ancient site, Al-Amarna. New Hermopolis is 20km from the city of Mallawi and within the jurisdiction of the Mallawi municipality in the governorate of Minya, and its aim is to fuel cultural and economic activity in Middle Egypt...continue reading…

Pixy Shahrour’s Journey From Diabetic to Athletic

Monday February 11, 2019               ًBy: Hadeer Taha

HOW EXERCISE, DETERMINATION AND COMMITMENT CHANGED PIXY SHAHROUR’S LIFE
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Pixy Shahrour – Photo courtesy Brace & Forge

“Your daughter is diabetic.” This is how it all started. Nineteen years ago, when I was 9, my family and I learned that I have diabetes. I will never forget how shocked my parents were when the doctor told them the news. They both started crying at the doctor’s office and I didn’t have a clue why. All that I understood was that I was sick and I had to take an injection in my abdomen to get better.…continue reading…

Nour Elzeny Recognized As One Of The Top 50 Most Influential Women Egypt In 2018 

Saturday January 26, 2019

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Nour Elzeny, General Manager Corporate Communication at Suez Canal Bank, was awarded among the top 50 influential women in Egypt for her professional, academic and social contributions. She received the award from Hala El Said, Minister of Social Solidarity in a ceremony organized by Amwal Alghad magazine. The ceremony was…continue reading…

Press Release from HRH King Ahmed Fouad II and Official Photos from Princess Fawzia’s Wedding

Monday January 21, 2019

Press Release by HRH King Ahmed Fouad II – Copied from HRH’s Official Page

50644032_10157173733808081_4759379356642443264_nAlmost 80 years after the wedding of Princess Fawzia,daughter of King Fouad I; Princess Fawzia, the daughter of King Fouad II got married. On the one hand, there were some coincidental similarities between the festivities that reflected the traditions of the family. On the other hand, there were contradictions that reflected the difference in time…continue reading…

Egyptian Woman Launches Project to Help Arab-American Children Learn Arabic in America

Wednesday January 16, 2019                             By: Kismat Mokhtar

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While cultures and traditions of immigrants in the west are easier to preserve, their heritage languages become more challenging for the new generations to learn, even when spoken at home; Arab Americans are no exception. Despite their immersion in the culture, the efforts by Arab American parents to teach Arabic to their children are often wasted. The influence of school, friends and life outside the house is stronger. As children grow older, they become recipients of the language….continue reading…

Omar Sharif and Faten Hamama: Egyptian Cinema’s Iconic Love Story

Tuesday December 26, 2019                 By: Egyptian Streets

hamama2.v1She was the lady of the Arab screen – a woman with charm, sophistication, and elegance, captivating the audience with her sweet voice and raw emotions. He, on the other hand, was a global nomad – living a very mobile and international lifestyle that eventually dragged him into the miseries of loneliness.

For Michel Chalhoub, or better known as Omar Sharif, Faten Hamama symbolized not only love, but belonging. She came from his own homeland, Egypt, born into a…continue reading…

Meet Rahma Khaled, the First TV Host In the World With Special Needs

Wednesday December 12, 2018

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Source: Rahma Khaled Facebook page

Rahma Khaled’s dream of becoming a television host came true when Egyptian dmc TV channel offered her a job to co-host their morning show “8:00 O’clock” on Tuesdays. This job opportunity came a week short of her first appearance on Al Ghad Channel on December 3rd, when she was invited to co-host a live segment on their morning show, in celebration of the International Day of Persons with Special Needs.…continue reading…

Egyptian HandBall Coach to Train Australia’s Women’s National Handball Team

Wednesday December 5, 2018                         By: Egyptian Streets

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Photo credit: Fil Goal 

Egyptian handball coach and player Heba Ali is the first Egyptian to train a foreign team by becoming the coach of the Australian women’s national handball team. In Egypt, the Egyptian Federation of the game usually hires a foreign coaching expert, given that they have the appropriate experience, to manage the technical affairs of the national team and develop their skills...continue reading …

9 Photos Showing Powerful Egyptian Female Soldiers During Suez Crisis

Monday November 19, 2019                              By: Egyptian Streets

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When one thinks of the Suez Crisis, images often come to mind of male soldiers fighting the battle while the women were weeping or treating the soldiers from injuries. Yet this was not the case.

In 1956, following the joint Israeli-French-British attack against Egypt, Egyptians went out to volunteer to fight in resistance in massive numbers, including both men and women in different ages.…continue reading…

Three Egyptian Scientists Win the 2018 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award

Saturday November 17, 2018              By: WOE Staff

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With their commitment to women empowerment around the world and to bring change to their lives, L’Oréal supports, sponsors and partners with women programs and organizations, to accomplish this mission. The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science recognizes accomplished women researchers, to encourage more young women to enter the profession. For their distinguished accomplishments, three Egyptian scientists received the 2018 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award…continue reading …

Mariam Works as A Carpenter to Get Through Tough Times

Thursday November 1, 2018        By: Photojournalist Mohamed Hakim

45011781_2106957496015513_7074419419845230592_nMariam’s husband abandoned her seven years ago with no source of income. She had just given birth to her second son Karas, who is now in third grade. It wasn’t easy for the single mother in the conservative governorate of Minia in Upper Egypt to support her two sons. Inevitably, she sent her eldest son, Nour, who was just a child, to work in a carpenter shop. For five years, Nour was the breadwinner of the family.…continue reading…

Magda Saleh: The Story of Egypt’s First Prima Ballerina

Friday October 5, 2016                       By: Egyptian Streets

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Magda Saleh – Studio Portrait: “Giselle” (Act II) Studo Alban, Kasr El Nil Street, Cairo, 1968

The Egyptian identity has gone through many phases. From the times of Ancient Egypt to the influence of the Christian Coptic and Islamic civilisations, the question of what constitutes as ‘Egyptian’ is still very confusing.

Egyptian dance, for instance, is often attributed to whirling dervishes, stick-fighting, and belly dance. It is not so common that one hears of famous ballet dancers as they do in Moscow or Paris. Yet in the 1950s and 60s, the ballet industry faced its first boom with the rise of Soviet influence and the vast cultural revolution that was taking place at the time….continue reading…

Egyptian sisters lead two research groups at the Magdi Yacoub Heart Foundation in Aswan

Wednesday September 19, 2018                     By: Digital Arabia Network

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Photo Credit: Ayman Maher

Deeply rooted in family and Egypt, Heba and Yasmine Aguib in their pursuit of excellence are leaving their mark on two continents by breaking through cultural and gender barriers. A strong and supportive family, excellent German education and technology, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge and innovation were the ideal combination for the innumerable achievements the “Dynamic Duo” has accomplished thus far...continue reading…

Football Coach Farida Salem Will Teach You How to Kick Like A Girl

Sunday September 16                         By: Kismat Mokhtar

“My coach said I run like a girl. I said if he ran a little faster, he could too.” – Mia Hamm.

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As the image of girls in male dominated sports is changing from merely cheerleaders to girls who are cheered at, Farida Salem is also taking major steps towards materializing her dream of opening a football academy for girls in Egypt. After endless years of battling cultural, social, and most importantly, gender stereotypes, the football player and coach, has finally succeeded to engrave her name in the national and international sport arena.…continue reading …

Meet Israa El-Naggar, the Visual Artist Behind Cairo Mockingbird

Thursday July 2, 2018                             By: Dina Al Mahdy

38254856_10160521222820237_977933713650221056_nInspired by Berlin ArtParasites—a German social media art platform dedicated to publishing English quotes and excerpts from great literary chef d’oeuvres— visual artist Israa El-Naggar and her colleague Mohamed Gamal, author, and founder of Kotobna, a self-publishing platform, launched Cairo Mockingbird, in November 2015, to promote art, reading, and writing. The only difference between the two is that most of the works shared on Cairo Mockingbirdare by Arab writers and artists….. continue reading ….

Meet Egypt’s 2nd Female Governor, Ever

ُThursday August 30, 2018

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Dr. Manal Awad Mikhail was appointed governor of Damietta, to become the second ever female governor in Egypt. The first was Nadia Abdou who was appointed governor of Beheira in 2017…. continue reading …

 

Umm Kulthum, the Strong Independent Star of the Orient

Sunday August 26, 2018                    By – Kismat Mokhtar

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Dubbed as Star of the Orient by her fans, Umm Kulthum (1889 or 1904 – 1973) is recognized as the most renowned and influential Egyptian and Arab musician in the twentieth century. Forty-five years after her death, she had secured her position as an eternal legend…. continue reading …

This Young Artist and Entrepreneur is Re.constructing Fashion Accessories

Monday August 13, 2018       By: Fadi Tawfik

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In recent years, entrepreneurs have dominated the realm of innovation. In fact, some may even argue that we are living in the golden age for entrepreneurship. When taking a closer look at those entrepreneurs, it becomes evident that most of them founded their business to fill a void they felt was needed. Young entrepreneurs tend to surprise us the most. To be creative at a young age is one thing, and to establish a business is quite another. Nevertheless, Zeina Soliman, founder of Reconstructed, was able to overcome the challenges she encountered due to her young age and executed her innovative startup idea… continue reading …

Meet the 8 Female Ministers in the New Egyptian Cabinet

Saturday June 16, 2018                       By: Women of Egypt Staff

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In a historic victory for Egyptian women, 8 female minsters were appointed in the new government that was formed on Thursday June 14th. The new Prime Minster, Mostafa Madbouly, appointed two more females to the cabinet, raising the overall number of the female ministers to 8, and a total representation of 25 percent of the cabinet.... continue reading …

Menna Shahin’s travels inspire women to follow their dreams

Sunday May 20, 2018                             By: Alexandra Kinias

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African Proverb

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The idea of traveling the world captured Menna Shahin’s imagination ever since she could remember. “As a little girl, I dreamt about exploring the world, meeting new people and experiencing different cultures,” Shahin said. But it wasn’t easy for her to fulfil her dream. Traveling was not among her conservative family’s pastime activities. Traveling alone was not an option. Shahin never gave up. She fought fiercely for what she believed was her right…. continue reading …

Meet Wissam Fahmy, One of Egypt’s Prominent Contemporary Artists

Saturday May 12, 2018                    By: Alexandra Kinias

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Wissam Fahmy’s presence filled Al Hanager Art Center with positive energy. At 79, the prominent Egyptian artist is still active, maybe not as much in producing new art work, but she still organizes her own shows and attend exhibitions by various artists; continuing the journey she started more than 5 decades ago…. continue reading …

Egyptian Canadian Dahlia Mostafa Receives the Prestigious Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers

Wednesday April 25, 2018

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On April 17, 2018, in celebration of National Volunteer Weekin Canada, Dr. Dahlia Mostafa received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.  She was awarded the medal by Her Excellency the Right Honorable Julie Payette, Governor General of CanadaGovernor General of Canada and Representative of Her Majesty The Queen…. ..continue reading …

Egyptian Photographer Heba Khamis Wins 2018 World Press Photo Award

Saturday April 14, 2018                              By: WOE Team

1518950991-Khamis_mainnnnEgyptian visual researcher and photographer Heba Khamis, 29, won first prize in the Contemporary Issues Stories, in the 2018 World Press Photo contest. Khamis’s photo was selected from entries by 4,548 photographers, from around the world. She’s the first Egyptian female photographer to win this award… continue reading …

Aconcagua – Nourhan Refaei’s Incomplete Journey

Wednesday February 28, 2018      By: Alexandra Kinias

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Honeymoons are among the most romantic experiences for newly-weds. However, Nourhan Refaei and her husband Amr Gouda didn’t pick a tropical island with exotic beaches, or other dream destinations like most honeymooners. Instead, they packed their gear and hiked the Italian Alps. That should not come as a surprise from the couple who is passionate about hiking…. continue reading …. 

The 100th Birthday of Egyptian Icon Laila Mourad (1918-2018)

Saturday February 17, 2018        By – Radwa Hosny

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Today, February 17th, marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of legendary Egyptian singer and actress Laila Mourad. Although Mourad’s career was cut short by her early retirement, at the age of 37, her songs and movies still captivate millions of her lovers in Egypt and around the Arab world. The daughter of a cantor and a Jewish convert to Islam, Lilian Ibrahim Zaki Mordecai, who later took the stage name Laila Murad, was born on February 17, 1918…. continue reading ….

Jomana Ismail walks from Aswan to Cairo to raise awareness on population growth

Sunday February 11, 2018

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On January 16th, 2018, Jomana Ismail and her team members embarked on the “Crossing Egypt Challenge”. The team of 4 young athletes crossed Egypt on foot from Aswan to Cairo in 23 days, to raise awareness on population growth. The challenge was sponsored by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Royal Norwegian Embassy, Ministry of Youth and other private companies…. continue reading …

Discover Egypt With Yoga Guru Aia Faham

Monday February 5, 2018

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The yoga revolution that’s gaining momentum across the world, is spilling over in Egypt. The stressful lifestyle most Egyptians live and the frustrations they encounter on daily basis have contributed to its growing popularity. More people are resorting to yoga for mental relaxation and inner peace. Some do it as stress reliever while others do it for meditation, or wellness to improve their strength, balance and flexibility. Certified Yoga and Mindfulness Instructor Aia Faham was introduced to yoga during her journey of self-discovery. …. continue reading ….

Meet 6 Inspiring Egyptian Women in Their Traditional Costumes

Sunday January 28, 2018

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When the brothers Mohamed and Ali Reda formed their Folkdance Troop in the late fifties, they travelled across Egypt to capture the essence of the communities around the country. Their travels reached the most remote oases and nomadic tribes. They documented their costumes and music and studied their choreography. Their creations were outstanding. The government sent them in world tours to exhibit their productions, which depicted the immense cultural diversity that spans across Egypt…. continue reading ….

Faten Hamama (1931- 2015) – Egypt’s Ambassador of La Belle Époque

Saturday January 20, 2017       By: Alexandra Kinias

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Faten Hamama’s movies shaped the lives of women in Egypt and the Arab world for decades. Her death in 2015 marked the end of an era that many romanticized with. Her movies evoke nostalgia to another life long gone. A life that many had witnessed first-hand while others lived it through her black and white movies. She was Egypt’s ambassador of la belle époque… continue reading 

 

“Tales of Al Ghandoura” Exhibition by Artist Omaima Alseesi

Thursday – January 18, 2018        By: WOE Team

26942397_10155842111392367_1709801619_oArtist Omaima Alseesi is hosting an exhibition at Nahdet Misr Gallery – Mahmoud Mukhtar Museum from January 11th – 21st, 2018, named “Hekayat Al-Ghandoura,” (Tales of A Pretty Woman).  Tales of Al-Ghandoura” is a women-themed exhibition. Through more than 45 oil paintings on canvas, Omaima tells various stories about women. She also reflects through her brush and warm and vibrant colors women internal beauty and how they adapt to their hard surroundings through their optimistic perception of life…. continue reading …

Meet four expat women who called Egypt home

Wednesday January 10, 2018         By: WOE Team

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Egypt, the cradle of civilization continues to cast its magical spell on its visitors. Over the centuries, its beauty and glory, the warmth of its sun and people, its diverse culture and landscape, mystical deserts, breathtaking Nile and green farmlands inspired artist, photographers and poets from around the world. For many, Egypt became their homeland of choice… continue reading …..

Hear them roar! – Leela Hazzah’s inspirational journey to preserve Lions

Friday January 5, 2018       By: Jaylan El Shazly

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Imagine living in the middle of a forest in Kenya, surrounded by wildlife and locals who speak a language that is completely foreign to you.  You spend your days walking, up to 30 kilometers, to explore the area, search for lions, and meet locals who are surprised to see you. ‘We didn’t know foreigners could walk!’ said the locals when they encountered Dr. Leela Hazzah, on one of her many treks in the area… continue reading ….

Queen of Dunes

Saturday, December 23, 2017
By: Haitham Mohamed and Mohamed Farid

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Yara Shalaby, 33, has become the first professional female rally driver in the country, winning several races of the 25 she has participated in, and overcoming stereotypes of what a woman can or cannot do with a car in Egypt… continue reading ….

 

 

 

Dinner With Doreya Shafik on her 109th Birthday (1908 – 1975)

Thursday December 14, 2017        By: Alexandra Kinias

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A reporter once asked me, if I could have dinner with one Egyptian woman, dead or alive, who would it be? My instant response was Doria Shafik.

Doria died when I was 11-years-old. She ended her life by ‘plunging to her death’ out of her balcony at the age of 67. I never heard of her before her death, and I am ashamed to admit, I didn’t learn about her accomplishments until decades later…. continue reading ….

 

Does My Background Shape My Identity?

Wednesday December 6, 2017         By: Nada Reda El Kharbotly

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He came from Turkey. She came from Palestine. He came for a better career. She came to escape a war zone. Two generations later I was born, in Egypt.  My family has given me a lot over the years, but nothing will ever come close to the multicultural background I was born into. Over the years, there was always a question that consumed me. Which country do I truly belong to? … continue reading ….

Schirin Salem Teaches Women Wen-Do to Fight Sexual Harassment

Friday August 18, 2017
By: Jaylan El Shazly

With the soaring rates of sexual harassment in Egypt, Schirin Salem, together with her friend Emmeline Lavender, launched Igmadi (Be Strong) Initiative in 2014, to empower women to stand up against harassment through Zumba fitness and Wen-Do self-defense training. With the series of events they organized across Egypt, Igmadi has since grown into a full-blown phenomenon. In spite of growing up in Germany, Salem had always been aware of sexual harassment. She experienced it during her visits to Egypt….. continue reading …

Art Without Borders: Meet 13 Artists Exhibiting Their Work in Rome

Thursday August 10, 2017

In Rome, the heart of arts and culture of the Renaissance, thirteen Egyptian women from “Art Without Borders” will be featuring their work in their debut international exhibition.

Organized by Shereen Badr, “Art Without Borders – Italy” will take place in “Spazio Cerere” gallery in Rome on Saturday August 12th, 2017 at 19:30 pm, under the Aegis of World Federation of UNESCO and Zervas Art organization.
The exhibition will also include a live workshop…. continue reading ….

Singer Hana Ghoneim And The Colored Dress

Tuesday August 1, 2017

Multitalented Artist, Hana Ghoneim, just released her latest song Colored Dress, the soundtrack of the first Egyptian docudrama film, with the same title, directed by Ehab Moustafa. The song was written by poet Radwa Alawady and composed by the renowned Italian musician Antongiulio Frulio, who also wrote the music theme for several international movies like Anna Karenina and The Pursuit of Happiness with Will Smith. ….continue ….

 

Hadia Abd Elfatah Fights For Women’s Rights, One Issue At A Time

Saturday July 22, 2017
By Alexandra Kinias

dydWhile many  women her age dream of their prince charming, wedding gowns and nurseries, Hadia Abdel Fattah dreams of safer streets and workplaces for women, gender equality, and women empowerment. At the age of twenty-nine, she is a face of women advocacy. Her life, time and efforts are dedicated to various women issues. On top of her priorities is the fight against sexual harassment. As a woman who encountered sexual harassment at a young age, like most Egyptian women, it became personal….. continue reading ….

 

Nine Egyptian American Women Tell About Life, Family & Egypt

Saturday July 15, 2017

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Egyptian American women are active members of the society. Professionally, they work in every field. You find them as judges, politicians, doctors, lawyers, accountants, university professors, teachers, academics, heads of corporations, entrepreneurs, babysitters, supermarket workers, waitresses in restaurants and owners of private businesses. They are proud of both their heritage and of their adoptive country where they chose to live and raise their families. And while they are all living the American dream, they are always nostalgic to the heartwarming memories of their earlier lives… continue reading .

 

It’s Huda Shaarawi’s 138th Birthday. Anyone Celebrating It?

Friday June 23, 2017
By: Alexandra Kinias

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Women empowerment is not a favorable subject of discussion in Middle Eastern countries, and women born and raised in these misogynist societies live in perpetual struggle to achieve tangible results.

Recently, I was asked by a young woman about Huda Shaarawi’s (1887 – 1947) accomplishments. What I first thought was a cynical question, turned out to be a real serious one. It was shocking to learn that … continue reading ….

 

Bakeaholics is More Than Just a Passion for Baking

June 3, 2017
By: Habiba Elhady

1098141_616933565005996_2020219078_nThe number of women home-based small businesses in Egypt is on the rise. The declining economic situation has contributed to the influx of work-at-home moms, but many corporate employees are also leaving behind lucrative jobs to a more relaxing work environment.  Sarah Arram, founder of Bakeaholics, a leading cake decorating company, knows exactly the stress, the long hours, and the mental drain associated with the corporate environment. She’s has been there, done that….. continue reading …

 

Mariam Farag Sprinkles “Hope” in Children’s Lives

Saturday April 13, 2017
By Alexandra Kinias

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Mariam Farag’s busy schedule is overflowing. You may catch her between meetings, in an airport travelling around the Middle East, visiting a refugee camp, an orphanage or a project she is leading, speaking at conferences advocating and promoting Arab youth start their business, or support those who are already running one. She is always on a mission with one goal in mind; the empowerment, development and betterment of the lives of Arab women, children and youth, especially the underprivileged ones… continue reading …. 

Meet 8 Egyptian Women Who Are Making A Difference Around The World

Saturday April 22, 2017
By: Alexandria Kinias

They are Movers & Shakers and Decision Makers

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From North America, to Europe, to Australia, Egyptian women are holding leading  positions in politics, business and entertainment…. continue reading ….

 

Hala El Sharouny’s Women

Tuesday April 11, 2017

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Expressionist Egyptian artist Hala Sharouny graduated from Helwan University in 2004 and holds a Masters degree in painting.Hala’s work is characterized by its dynamic, playful techniques. Her palette is diverse, colorful and vibrant. Her artwork addresses contemporary social issues like women and society with a twist of …. continue reading ….

 

An Egyptian Star is Born in Canada

Saturday April 8, 2017
By: Habiba Elhady

Singer and songwriter Malak Ghanem released her debut album, Circus, in the winter of 2016. She has also released, since then, six live video performances. Her latest video of her original Rule the World, recorded with Ottawa initiative Shot in the Dark, has received over 90,000 views in Canada, the U.S., Egypt and the Emirates, from current … continue reading.

 

ACONCAGUA – My Unclimbed Mountain

Wednesday March 15, 2017
By: Manal Rostom

A marathon runner, biker, diver and hiker, Manal Rostom is also a mountain climber. She climbed some of the highest mountains in the world; St Catherine in Egypt, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Kenya, Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire in Mauritius and Elbrus in Russia. Her expedition to summit Aconcagua, in Argentina, failed due to weather conditions. Rostom is preparing for a second try and aspires to become the first Egyptian woman to summit Everest. Here is her story on Aconcagua…. Continue Reading

 

Maha’s Brings a Taste From Home to Canada

Saturday, March 4, 2017
By: Habiba Elhady

After moving to Canada in 2000, Maha worked as an interpreter and a translator. For a work event, she cooked a vegetarian macaroni bel béchamel, substituting the ground meat with mixed vegetables and feta cheese, in between two layers of penne pasta and topped with béchamel sauce. The casserole was raved by her colleagues who urged her to start a catering business, which she did, with the help of her two kids, Monika, 16, and Mark, 13, then… continue reading …

 

Egyptian Designer Makes it on “Forbes 30 Under 30” List.

February 1, 2017
By: Alexandra Kinias

Egyptian graphic designer Ghada Wali was selected on the Forbes’ List 30 under 30 Europe – Arts 2017, making her the first Egyptian to ever be included on the European list. With her cutting edge projects, controversial artwork and short, yet rich professional career, Wali already inscribed her name amongst the world’s most renowned graphic designers .. continue reading …

 

Follow Your Dreams

Thursday January 18, 2016
By: Iman Refaat

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“All dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”  ~ Walt Disney.

It was a matter of courage, the lack of it, to be precise, that held me back from pursuing my dream. I wanted to write a novel in English, but neither my French education nor my degree in Mass Communication matched up to this dream. My inner voice, my worst enemy, interrupted every fantasy I had to become a novelist, continuously reminding me that I neither had the …. continue reading …

A Breast Cancer Survivor Shares Her Experience and Message of Hope.

Wednesday January 4, 2017
By: Alexandra Kinias

When Maha Hafez Witherington was diagnosed with breast cancer, all she could think of was that she was given a death sentence. “I thought I had my whole life ahead of me, but in a matter of days, everything changed.” Maha said. ….. ….continue reading 

From Cairo to the World’s Greatest Opera Houses

Thursday December 22, 2016
Written by: Habiba Elhady

The musical journey of prominent Egyptian opera singer Amira Selim started at the age of six. She grew up in a house where music and art were not only cherished, but also a profession. Amira was born to pioneering pianist and classical musician Marcelle Matta and Egypt’s renowned artist and art critic Ahmed Fouad Selim. Her parents’ artistic background played an instrumental role in shaping her upbringing and influencing her career…continue reading ..

 

WOE list of Egypt’s 50 Most Inspiring Women – 2016

Egyptian women are pushing the boundaries in unprecedented ways. Their achievements and successes are dominating the daily news.They are breaking down barriers, challenging social and cultural taboos, and their impressive accomplishments are shaping and changing the world for many other women. We are honoring fifty of these amazing, revolutionaries, visionary, creative, brave women, in hope to inspire, influence and empower more women to follow suit…. continue reading … 

 

She Has Nailed It ..

Saturday December 17, 2016
By: Pakinam El-Askary

On a bustling noisy street in the densely populated poor neighborhood of Abdeen, Cairo, pedestrians stop in front of a carpentry workshop to glance at the woman working inside, often not believing their eyes. The more curious ones step in to watch her cutting a wooden board with a table saw, drilling, chiseling, pulling nails, hammering or using a pneumatic air nail gun, not quite a common sight to many. When I called Asmaa Megahed, the first female carpenter in Egypt, .. continue reading ..

Carelle Homsy: Egyptian Expressionism Artist

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Carelle Homsy  was born in Cairo in 1968.  She graduated from the Faculty of Arts Education, Helwan University in 1991, and a year later  she had her first solo exhibition at the Cairo Atelier. Since then, she had many solo and collective exhibitions in Egypt and abroad.  Her last solo exhibition was in London in February 2016…. continue reading …. 

Life Coaching: Nevin Elgendy Changing Lives One Client at a Time

Friday December 9, 2016
By: Iman Refaat

Becoming a life coach “was an accident”, Nevin Elgendy explained during her interview over the phone from her home in Canada. She had just moved to Canada, when she was in a supermarket flicking through magazines and she came across an ad for a life coaching workshop offered by Dr. Martha Beck Institute….. continue reading ….

A Mother’s Fight to Save Kidnapped Son

– By: Alexandra Kinias
Thursday November 24, 2016

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On November 24, 2012, Sagy Omar’s driver was late picking her up after her evening classes. With the escalating political turmoil that negatively impacted the tourism industry in Egypt, Sagy lost her job as a tour guide. She decided to invest her time in studying for a master’s degree in maritime and underwater anthropology…. Continue Reading

 

Opera in Egypt and the Mezzosoprano Prodigy: Farrah ElDibany

– Written by Nadeen ElFekky and Maryam Meshal –
Sunday October 2, 2016

 Farrah ElDibany is among many Egyptian opera singers who have gained international acclaim. Farrah’s success story of international fame was topped by her acceptance at the prestigious Young Artist Program at the ‘Acadèmie de l’Opera Nationale de Paris”, the biggest Opera House worldwide. She is the first Egyptian resident in the prominent opera house, chosen as one of the 5 finest singers out of over 500 contestants…. Continue reading …

 

Marie Assaad: The Life Journey of an Egyptian Social Pioneer

14011960_1137517096328143_873288060_n– By Heba Abu Ahmed
Saturday October 1, 2016

With the approval of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi of a new law that imposes harsher prison sentence of up to seven years in jail, for those who perform the outlawed procedure of female genital mutilation (FGM), one must acknowledge and credit Marie Assaad’s efforts to combat this procedure.  Continue Reading