JEDDAH, 28 November 2007 — Women driving, the hijab, education, Islam and other cultural and religious matters were part of an animated discussion between a group of 25 American educators and Saudi women yesterday at Effat College.

“We want the world to know that we’re not terrorists,” said Maha Juffali, director and supervising trustee of Help Center, a philanthropic non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of children with mental disabilities. “Women are the same everywhere. We have the same dreams and aspirations for the future.”

Saudi Aramco hosted the group of teachers, specialists and directors from various educational institutions in the US, such as Lansing High School, Western International High School, Rhodes Junior High School and Institute of International Education to name a few. Filled with curiosity, they stated their interest in knowing more about Saudi Arabia to uncover the reality behind many misconceptions and learn about women’s role in Saudi society.

When asked if Saudi Arabia is capable of advancing without being too westernized, Maha Akeel, managing editor of The Journal (issued by the Organization of the Islamic Conference) and a regular Arab News contributor, said: “There’s not a real clash of civilization between development and the Islamic Shariah. It’s all about finding balance without losing your identity. It’s so easy to keep an open mind yet still preserve one’s religious beliefs.”

Rozana Al-Banawi, 24, one of Effat College’s alumni, shared her experience of balancing her roles as a housewife, a mother and a psychology teacher in Dar Al-Fikr School.

“It’s important for us women to contribute to the growth of the country’s industrial, educational and infrastructure development,” she said. “But we ought to realize the importance of preparing our children to lead the future. It’s not right to succeed in one area at the expense of failing in other crucial areas.”

Al-Banawi got married when she was 19 and obtained her bachelor’s degree as a student and a mother. She said it was difficult, but with some hard work and support one could balance between personal and professional duties.

“This kind of assemblies is important because it gives Western people the chance to meet face-to-face with successful Saudis who have excelled in different fields to contribute to their society’s holistic evolution,” said Rania Ibrahim, vice dean of student affairs at Effat College.

The delegation’s visit lasted for two hours and ended with a tour of the Effat College campus.