Proving Myself
Marwa Abdalla, Qatar
Marwa Abdalla is an Egyptian karate-ka living in Qatar. As part of the GOALS program, Marwa shares her diagnosis of joint hypermobility syndrome and the impact that Muay Thai has had on her confidence.
Sport is a catalyst for positive change, individually and collectively. It dismantles stereotypes, builds communities, and equips women with the tools to navigate life's challenges with strength and grace. It is not just about physical prowess; it is a journey of empowerment and self-realisation, a narrative that echoes through the shared experiences of the women in my community and resonates in my own story.
My name is Marwa Abdalla, a 21-year-old Egyptian whose journey has unfolded amidst the vibrant backdrop of Doha. The past two decades have seen me call this city my home.
My journey in the world of sports began at a very young age, thanks to my parents' support and encouragement. They believed in the importance of physical activity, not only for its health benefits, but also for its role in personal growth and development. However, my path in sports was unique due to a medical condition I was diagnosed with at the age of six – joint hypermobility syndrome. I was filled with overwhelming emotions. Amidst the challenges of pain, stiffness, and recurring injuries, my parents became my pillars of strength, determined to help me navigate and manage the condition effectively.
Given the nature of my condition, I found solace and empowerment in contact sports, specifically karate. The structured environment of karate dojo, coupled with the dedication required to advance through the belt scale, made the sport special for me. The camaraderie among fellow karate-ka created a positive and encouraging atmosphere that motivated me to push my limits, making karate a truly meaningful and different experience from other sports.
It was through karate that I began to develop not only physical strength but also essential values and skills that would shape my journey in both martial arts and life itself.
Discipline was one of the core principles ingrained in my karate classes. I learned the importance of regular practice and the value of perseverance in the face of challenges. The dedication required to advance through the belt scale, from yellow to brown, taught me the importance of hard work and commitment.
Defining My Values
Cooperation was another key value I fostered in my karate dojo. I experienced firsthand the importance of teamwork and supporting fellow students. The sense of comradeship among my fellow karate-ka created a positive and encouraging environment that motivated me to push my limits.
Healthy competition was also a fundamental aspect of my karate journey. As one of the few females in my karate classes, I knew I had to prove my competence among my male peers. This fuelled my motivation to be the best that I could be. With the support of my male senpais (instructors), I earned an advanced brown belt at 14, standing as the youngest and sole female karate-ka at that level. It is my hope that this accomplishment inspires others who have been diagnosed with joint hypermobility that they too can overcome physical challenges.
While my involvement in karate classes temporarily paused at 16 due to my increased study load in high school, martial arts had become an integral part of my life. Even as I explored other sports, such as swimming, tennis, and gymnastics, I often returned to the discipline and mindset instilled in me by karate.
Opportunity In Uncertainty
The COVID-19 lockdown presented a unique challenge but also led me to new opportunities. Initially, I felt a sense of uncertainty, much like the rest of the world, as I realised that my routine was temporarily inaccessible. From here, I embarked on a quest to find ladies-only Muay Thai classes, which were gaining popularity in Qatar. The inspiring women in these classes exuded strength and resilience, creating a space where I felt not only comfortable but also inspired to embrace Muay Thai.
Since then, Muay Thai has become my sport of choice, allowing me to continue my journey of physical and personal development. Through karate and now Muay Thai, I have managed my medical condition and thrived, embracing the values of discipline, cooperation, and healthy competition along the way. These values have shaped my athletic journey and my approach to life, making me resilient and more confident in all aspects of my life.
Sisterhood and Self-Discovery Through Sport
Sport holds a profound significance for the women in my community, and its importance resonates deeply with me on multiple levels. Firstly, it is a powerful vehicle for empowerment, fostering a sense of strength and resilience. The women in my community, particularly those engaged in Muay Thai, find in sports a means to break societal barriers and redefine their narratives.
Beyond the physical benefits, sport provides a platform for fostering camaraderie and mutual support. The shared journey in Muay Thai classes creates bonds that extend beyond the training mat, forming a sisterhood that uplifts and inspires. This sense of community is vital in challenging stereotypes and encouraging women to embrace their strengths and capabilities.
Moreover, sports instil essential life skills — discipline, perseverance, and a healthy competitive spirit. These virtues are valuable within the sporting arena and translate into various aspects of life, empowering women to navigate challenges with resilience and confidence.
For me, sport is my lifeline, a transformative force that has shaped my identity and resilience. It has been a conduit for overcoming barriers posed by the physical condition I was diagnosed with and a source of constant self-discovery.
Rewriting The Narrative
Women's sports in the Middle Eastern cultures are evolving and making significant strides, driven by changing attitudes and growing opportunities. Today, female athletes in the Middle East are rewriting the narrative, showing that strength, resilience, and athleticism know no gender boundaries.
Middle Eastern women are not just participating; they are conquering global stages. Names like Sarah Attar from Saudi Arabia (one of the first two female Olympians representing Saudi Arabia at the 2012 Summer Olympics) and Hania Fouda from Egypt (an archer who won the gold medal in the African Championship in 2014) are inspiring millions. Beyond traditional sports, Middle Eastern women are embracing unconventional activities. From parkour to MMA, they are smashing stereotypes while mastering these disciplines.
The global spotlight on Qatar, fuelled by the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, offered a unique opportunity to shift the narrative surrounding women in sports. The increased awareness and interest generated by the tournament are not confined to the men's game alone. They extend like a welcoming embrace to women's sports.
Tapestry of Ambitions
I aspire to leverage my experiences and the power of sports to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in athletic pursuits. In the tapestry of my ambitions, I envision a future where my journey in sports becomes a beacon of inspiration for others facing physical challenges.
I dream of establishing programmes that empower individuals, especially women, through sports. Whether it is creating opportunities for those facing physical challenges or fostering environments where women can thrive and redefine societal expectations, my ambition is to be a catalyst for positive change.
In Muay Thai, I see myself as a practitioner and a mentor, guiding and inspiring others to discover their inner strength through martial arts. I want to contribute to the growth of women's participation in combat sports, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes.
