[Editor's Note: This is the first of a 4-part weekly series ahead of Emirati Women’s Day.] Amal Ahmad has resolved that disability will not impede her life; participating in marathons, delving into the depths of the UAE's waters, nothing deters this Dubai-based citizen. For this individual of determination, quitting is not an option. “I believe that physical disabilities are not the true barriers; it’s mental limitations that prevent you from living fully,” Amal stated.
Amal is not merely an athlete or a diver; she is a voice-over artist, a social media influencer, an educator, a model, a motivational speaker, a driver, a padel and tennis player – a person with numerous accomplishments. In 2007, shortly after graduating in media studies from Sharjah University, Amal was involved in an accident that severely injured her lower body. A surgical mishap left her paralyzed below the abdomen. For over a year, Amal underwent treatment in the hospital.
For nearly nine years post-accident, Amal grappled with accepting her disability. “I was merely existing, not truly living. Life lacked interest. I went to work and came back home to rest – that was my routine. I lacked motivation and ambition,” she recounted. To date, Amal has had 18 surgeries and has several metal plates in her body. “I’ve come to understand that I must live with this, and miracles are in the hands of Allah,” Amal remarked.
Currently employed in the government sector in aviation, Amal harbored dreams of being a TV personality. “However, they now seek a 'perfect' individual without disabilities.” Despite this obstacle, she has thrived as a social media influencer, though her TV aspirations remain unfulfilled. Until 2017, Amal was confined to a wheelchair, but a transformative journey began when a friend encouraged her to visit countries with greater hardships.
In 2017, Amal’s visit to Zanzibar marked a pivotal shift in her life. Using a wheelchair and crutches, she began engaging in community service. “I was stunned by how people survived in extreme poverty. After serving in Africa, I went to Sri Lanka to aid impoverished children,” Amal explained. “These experiences transformed me from having no ambition to being fully motivated to assist the less fortunate,” she added.
Amal’s social media presence began with highlighting her social work, showcasing projects like building schools in Zanzibar and other regions. Her humanitarian efforts attracted a significant following and numerous collaboration offers. “I’ve partnered with renowned brands globally, including Dubai tourism, retail outlets, malls, automobiles, and jewelry,” she noted.
Through her journey, Amal discovered that overcoming mental barriers was key to achieving her goals. “Acceptance of one’s disability is crucial to moving forward,” she emphasized, noting that her family became her steadfast support system. Despite partial numbness, Amal lives fully, engaging in daily physiotherapy and exercises.
She also enjoys driving sports cars and modeling for them. “I drive across various cities and have even explored Tokyo,” Amal shared, emphasizing her continuous self-challenge. “Each day is a new challenge and opportunity to achieve something.” She also cycles 3km thrice a week to stay fit and motivated. Additionally, she is an active member of the Ladies Club for People Determination in Dubai and participates in Olympic shooting.
Amal continues to inspire, urging others, “Don’t let anything hold you back. Believe in yourself, keep pushing forward, and you will achieve greatness.” “I always remind myself and others that every day is a new chance to conquer fears, pursue passions, and make a difference,” she concluded.
