REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
Dubai-based Saudi mountaineer and explorer, Raha Moharrak, tells us why women in the region need to be recognised as a force to be reckoned with
david@khaleejtimes.com
WHEN IT COMES to challenges, nothing appears insurmountable for this inspirational person. Raha Moharrak was the first Saudi woman and youngest Arab ever to climb Mount Everest in 2013, a feat accomplished at the age of just 27. Kilimanjaro has also been ticked off the list alongside a total of eight of the world’s highest mountain tops, including Vinson Massif in Antarctica, Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, as well as Aconcagua in the Argentinean Andes. In total Raha has been on 14 expeditions and currently holds 12 different records.
It is therefore no surprise a company like Chevrolet Middle East would wish to formalise an association, and have recently done so by making Raha a brand ambassador. With it now being legal for women to drive in Saudi Arabia, and the auto industry as a whole striving for inclusivity, the pioneer epitomises the sense of freedom and exploration driving evokes.
We caught up with the American University of Sharjah graduate and now, when she’s not planning her next voyage, Dubai-based Graphic Designer and Art Director to find out more.
How did your relationship with Chevrolet come about and what does your role involve?
I think the relationship was very much meant to be, especially as it comes at a time where women are at the forefront of the evolution of Saudi Arabia following all the steps that have been taken by the Kingdom to usher in a new era, such as the lift of the women’s driving ban. I didn’t take this step with any brand, but chose one that is deeply rooted in our Saudi culture. I am hoping to be able to extend my reach as a role model and help guide a wider audience on this new journey. On many occasions I was told that, as a woman, there are things I couldn’t do and I am here to prove that there is really nothing we are not capable of doing.
As a Saudi woman, how did it feel when the driving law change came into effect?
I couldn’t believe it! I couldn’t imagine experiencing this in my lifetime, let alone in the prime of my life. I’m so excited to play an active role supporting these changes. I think the law change happened now because it has become increasingly obvious that unless women are integrated into society, they will not thrive as much as they could. Half of the working force was immobile, which isn’t sustainable. I think it will shape the next generation in a way people have never imagined.
Do you think the law change is a sign of things to come? What else would you like to see implemented in Saudi and the region?
I think this is one of many steps in the right direction. I am obviously passionate about sports, so I would like to see a stronger sports curriculum in schools like football and volleyball clubs and swimming teams for example. Unless you have a very good basis for kids to be aware of sports you will never have world class athletes.
Is it at all frustrating that the perception of the Middle East in the West can often be skewed? Do you believe equality is advancing here as quickly as everywhere else?
I think every human would not like to be judged or put in a stereotypical box. Of course, it bothers me that the world might have a wrong impression of us, but this is why I and many others do what we do. Our voices work hard to eradicate stereotypes and the only way to do this is by proving them wrong. I think that in some cases, I would like to see faster change, but in other cases the changes are perfect and take place when society is ready for them.
Climbing as many peaks as you have, is there any mountaineering challenge remaining? What other feats are you thinking of undertaking?
I have never been predictable. What I do know for sure is that I am now trying very hard to get my book published and my story out there, and to hopefully break the chains, the prejudice mentality and change the stereotypes. My other project is out of this world. I can’t say much about it now, but let’s just say that Mount Everest was the first step to achieving my bigger dream. You never really know with me, you just have to stay tuned. Even my parents say they never know what to expect with me. They have learnt to generally expect the unexpected.
From where did this desire to be an explorer stem? Have you always been encouraged? Have you ever faced any objections?
I think some people are just born with this gene that keeps them going, exploring and continuously hungry to see the world. I think I have always had this fire inside me. My parents were always very encouraging and they are the first to tell you that I went so much further and beyond their imagination. They always wanted me to be adventurous and outdoorsy, but they never imagined I would go this far. According to them I am absolutely insane with zero fear, which is not true. I do have fears, yet I am kind of fearless in my pursuit of life and living in a big way - full of adventures and experiences. Of course, throughout the journey I’ve faced prejudice of people not accepting a woman being as independent, adventurous, outgoing and bold as I am. I think you always face these things. If you don’t then you are not doing something that is big enough, you are not shaking things up and not pushing hard enough. But, it is something that will hopefully evolve.
What words of encouragement or advice would you extend to other young people looking to follow in your footsteps?
My advice in general is to never be afraid to fail, because there are lessons in failure that you cannot learn any other way. Many people don’t take the first step because they are afraid of failing. My advice to women is to walk in the room as equals and not wait for anyone to hand you equality.
As a woman...i am here to prove that there is really nothing we are not capable of doing.” Raha Moharrak