I faxed my resume and stepped out of the house for some errands not expecting a reply for at least a week. To my surprise upon returning home I found a message from the Editor in Chief Khaled Almaeena to return his call regarding my application. I called, went for an interview the next day, and the rest is history, as they say.

Arab News has been part of my history in Jeddah since I returned to live here after being abroad for almost all my life. It has been the eyes through which I see my country from a different perspective, that of a citizen not just a visitor, and it has been my voice to express my concerns and views.

Since the beginning I was given the freedom to explore any issue of interest to me or that I felt needed to be exposed no matter how sensitive, controversial or taboo. Getting my stories published was another matter, but in the end, after persuading, arguing and sometimes compromising, all of them were published. I can confidently say that Arab News has been a leader in broaching issues deemed untouchable before and putting those issues on the hot burner. Whether it is human rights abuses against women, children and laborers; the need for legal and education reform; the rampant corruption; and the frequent medical mistakes, Arab News did not shy from highlighting these issues and seeking official attention to address them.

On the other hand, Arab News has also been at the forefront of showcasing positive developments in our society concerning women, political reform and religious tolerance. Throughout covering these issues and more, I was encouraged, supported and put in the spotlight as a spokesperson on these issues to the international media without hesitation or envy.

This is the spirit of collaboration, of being one family, which prevailed and distinguished us from other newspapers.

My years at Arab News were educational and fun. I will always remember them with fondness - the hours of contacting sources and getting information, the despair of confirming news, the agony over writing and rewriting an intro or a headline, and the rush to report on late-breaking news.

My mentors and colleagues at Arab News are still my friends and confidants; you have my full respect and appreciation.

Arab News was the launching pad for my career. Where I am today is a testimony to where I started.

Arab News, congratulations on your 35th anniversary and many more to come. I hope you continue with your high standards, spirit and distinction.

- Maha Akeel is managing editor of OIC (Organization of the Islamic Conference) Journal.