After marriage and childbirth, many women step away from education. Some sacrifice their dreams due to childcare responsibilities or societal pressures.
In many Muslim-majority countries, societal and religious norms often place the responsibility of household duties on women, while men are expected to earn a living.
However, breaking these stereotypes, Saudi Arabia’s Hamda Al-Ruwaili has set an extraordinary example. Not only did she continue her studies, but she also earned a Ph.D. while being a mother to 19 children—a feat that is likely unparalleled in history.
Hamda Al-Ruwaili, an inspiring woman from Saudi Arabia, managed to pursue her dreams despite being a mother to 10 sons and 9 daughters. She skillfully balanced childcare, her professional career, and her studies. Alongside holding an administrative position in the mental health sector, she also runs an online business.
Hamda explains that during the day, she takes care of her children and manages her work, while dedicating her nights to her business and studies. She meticulously plans her daily tasks to avoid chaos.
Before turning 43, Hamda had already completed her bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees. However, her journey was far from easy. She admits that looking after 19 children was extremely challenging but credits teachers and military officials as her sources of inspiration.
According to Hamda, her role models include a teacher managing a classroom full of students and a military officer leading countless soldiers.
She adds, “The challenge of raising one child is just as tough as raising ten. I understand my children’s needs, work toward their goals, and inspire them to fulfill their dreams.”
Hamda’s children are also academically gifted. One of her daughters has received a scholarship from the King Abdulaziz Center. Despite having so many responsibilities, Hamda never gave up on her dream of education.
She shares that although life threw numerous obstacles her way, she never strayed from the path of learning. Her story is an immense inspiration for women not only in Saudi Arabia but across the world. Through her life, Hamda has demonstrated how to strike a balance between family responsibilities and personal aspirations.
This story serves as a shining example of women’s empowerment and the power of unwavering determination.