The Faces of Saudi Feminists

Women in Saudi Arabia are now in charge of their own narratives. Armed with the knowledge of the system, their independent views, strategic planning and specialized initiatives, a coalition has formed of sorts, where each woman is spearheading a cause that is close to her. Whether its environmental issues, allowing for women to drive, female sales representatives at shopping malls, charity work or other causes, women are making sure their points of view are now part of the conversation.

With the rise of social media in the Middle East, statistically, Saudi Arabia is a front-runner with applying digital strategies. Persistently campaigning for their initiatives and constantly engaging with their constituents, an organic movement embracing constructive dialogue has emerged, where not only the youth are thoroughly enjoying voicing their opinions but so are the women.

The growing trend of female empowerment in the Middle East is inspiring, and several key representatives have emerged as the leaders implementing this social change. One of whom is, Maha Taher, 25, who not only holds a key position at the Majid Society, but also runs various social campaigns like: Clean Jeddah, Saudi Women Driving Campaign, and the famous YIG (Young Initiative Group). Taher maybe young, but she is a force to be reckoned with, publicly announcing that she’d like to eventually be the future Minister of Social Affairs.

Another, woman leading the way is, Reem Assad, 39, a famed writer and social activist. She’s publicly taken on the Saudi government, requesting them to hire female attendants at women’s apparel departments. Assad’s led store boycotts, protests and has kept her campaign active in a fairly unfriendly environment.

Within this atmosphere, these women challenge the social norms on a daily basis, risking alienating themselves from tight communities or perhaps even far worse. However, their voices are not only being appreciated but also encouraged by various companies, especially by Femi9, a fashion house, located in Saudi Arabia. Eyad Abdullah Mashat, Founder and CEO of Femi9, wanted to make sure that society knew his company appreciated the role women play in society. Launching their female empowerment campaign with a quote from King Abdullah, “I believe strongly in the rights of women…my mother is a woman, my sister is a woman, my daughter is a woman, my wife is a woman.” Officially declaring April, Women’s Appreciation Month (WAM), Femi9 will be granting thirty scholarships to fashion design students, five of which will be hired within the firm as designers. Taher, a supporter of this initiative says, “This is a ground-breaking initiative that makes a constructive contribution to women’s employment. The scholarships open a new window of opportunity for talented women to excel in a field that offers a rewarding outlet for their creativity.”

Femi9 will conclude the month, by holding an award ceremony, naming the six best female achievers. The categories include: best woman social worker, best woman teacher/lecturer, best young woman entrepreneur, best woman government employee, best woman media personality, and best woman doctor. Voting is taking place on the Femi9 Facebook fan page. Assad stated, “The wide spectrum covered by the six categories shows thoughtful and careful selection by Femi9 and will highlight the important role played by women in each of their chosen professions.” The talent behind this pioneering idea and innovative social campaign is none other than Said Aghil Baaghil, marketing guru extraordinaire.

The promotion has ignited a firestorm of female participants across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). With feminist leaders across Saudi Arabia celebrating with Femi9, the social media campaigns have shown, the support and excitement from within the community. Other local feminists have also supported this initiative, among them are: Mona Siraj, TV anchor and editor of Sayidaty Magazine; Serene Feteih, editor of Destination Jeddah; and Mona Hariri, anchor of Jeddah Radio.

The women of Saudi Arabia have decided that it’s their time to become active, their ideas need to be shared and their voices must be heard.

Click HERE to follow Femi9 on Facebook.