Ever since I was a child, I have always been drawn to everything that was subliminally marked as ‘off-limits,’ especially if it was the ‘boys-only’ kind of off-limits. Up until today, I am usually fiercely driven by challenge to prove society wrong whenever they deem certain activities ‘unfit for girls.’ Many girls and ladies of different ages have often voiced their discomfort of leading a life of independence and success among the Egyptian society due to the many shackles it unrightfully enforces on them. But from where I stand, those shackles have largely been the reason behind where I stand today; an independent, self-driven and mostly proud Egyptian young woman. For 24 years, all I have known about life has been shaped by Egyptian society for I have never lived elsewhere. Although I greatly consider myself lucky to have grown up to amazing parents who have always been supportive and nourishing, I also believe that whatever respect or little success that I have reached is of my making as well. The tides I swam against may not be as soul-crushing as others’, but I have had my share of tiresome…
