Shaqa’iq is an educational video series profiling successful girls and women in the Arab world. The goal of Shaqa’iq is to introduce Arabic speaking girls, young women and the male influencers in their lives, to the potential they have as vital members of 21st century society by showcasing the role technology has in empowering individuals. Shaqa’iq (www.kidzonline.org/mepi) also provides an online forum for girls and young women to connect with and share issues and ideas to further propel the ideals and values of their culture as they enrich their personal experiences. Funded by the US Department of State through its Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), Shaqa’iq is a collaboration between Nortel Networks Kidz Online, the Columbian College of George Washington University and World Links Arab Region.
Shaqa’iq profiles Arab women in interesting careers. On camera the women discuss the many facets of their jobs, the skills and training needed, their accomplishments and challenges faced, the ways in which being female has influenced their success, as well as the role of family support systems in that success. The women all employ computers, handheld digital devices or other digital technology extensively in their work. Each of the women featured on Shaqa’iq uses her talents to contribute to her field of specialty or her community in a meaningful way.
While the interviews are in Arabic, many interesting portions of the site are in English as well, including the mini biographies of the profilees and an informative white paper on issues of importance to women in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar and the UAE.
