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The Egyptian Hijabi Model Shattering What it Means to be a Muslim, Arab Girl

February 23, 2017

As a little girl, like all other little girls, Manal Rostom was given kitchen sets and dolls. She was a shy child, and growing up had to face all cultural obstacles women encounter in the Middle East. Looking back, she would have rather had a microphone to practice speeches, and mountain gear to prepare for what is to come. At 37-years-old, Rostom has climbed mountains, can speak four languages, and became a figure for fighting stereotypes about women in hijab. Yet, she still has to deal with those who look at her as a veiled woman with an empty head. Rostom speaks to Egyptian Streets about her adventures, moments of pride, goals, and fears. What did you dream of becoming when you were much younger? My inspiration was Madonna since I was 8. I would look up to her in terms of how brave and inspirational she was in terms of putting her message across regardless of the judgments, her upbringing, or how poor she was. As a young girl I just wanted to become a strong girl. I was very shy, until I hit 12 or 13. I wanted…


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