The women empowered through service during Hajj
One inspiring woman involved in the pilgrimage is Alyaa Malibari, a professor at Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah.
She has dedicated her career to enhancing pilgrims' experiences while also empowering other women and works with several operators to run courses for members of the public interested in volunteering during Hajj.
She devised the Qaidat program, a leadership initiative for women that introduces them to various roles and responsibilities. Another, Hunna, is a female-led project that aligns with Vision 2030 and focuses on applying innovative practices during Hajj. Meanwhile, the Aguadyat program empowers women in food safety, enhancing the quality of meals provided to pilgrims.
Women have been integral to Hajj ever since its inception, offering hospitality, preparing meals and sharing religious knowledge. Today, their roles have expanded to reflect their educational and professional advancements.
Malibari has been a pivotal figure. With a background in leadership training and communication, she began her journey at a young age, inspired by her family's commitment to serving pilgrims.
'My earliest memories of Hajj are filled with admiration for my father and the work he did. I always knew I wanted to contribute in some way,' she said, adding that empowering women was a lifelong commitment: 'I want to ensure that women have the tools and knowledge to thrive during Hajj.'
Malibari's earliest memories of Hajj are of when she was five years old and accompanied her father. Her formal involvement began in 2005 when she volunteered with the Women's Assembly at Umm Al-Qura to assist female pilgrims.
She later studied abroad, which allowed her to bring international attention to Saudi efforts in serving pilgrims.
'It was important for me to share our story with the world and highlight the dedication of those who serve,' she said.
In 2019, Malibari led a translation project for the Ministry of Media, producing multilingual content to enhance communication.
Beyond her contributions during Hajj, Malibari is a dedicated doctor and academic. She is keen to emphasize the importance of education and aims to inspire the next generation of leaders.
'Education is the key to unlocking potential. I want my students to understand that they can make a difference,' she said.
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