IBTISAM Al-Hubail who began writing early in her life is now fully occupied in the media. She has entered the sector and is making a name for herself in a very competitive world. What is special though is that Al-Hubail wanted to make her way only by preserving her Saudi identity. Wearing a veil, she has proven herself and has became the program manager of a new economic channel. Recently she gave an interview to Sayidaty:
You started writing at early age. What motivated you?
My father is a great motivator. He believes that reading comes second after eating. Eating is important for the body and reading is equally so for the mind. In the beginning, I wrote about my feelings and sufferings. I also wrote about different things that are common to all us — such as feeling afraid or feeling sage. Some of my writings appeared in local newspapers. I then published two books; “Awjaa Sageera” (Minor Sufferings), and “Shahakat Al-Samt” (Whoops of Silence). I am now working on my third book which is a children’s book.
Do you consider writing two books at this early age ‘an achievement’?
Though some people might consider it so, it is not enough for me. This is just one of the achievements that I am looking and working for. My first book addresses the events and emotions associated with teenagers and the second addresses more complicated issues. As long as I live, I will write about what is around me.
Why didn’t you write fiction and novels?
I enjoy this world; I love reading stories. I am thinking of a story, but I don’t want to rush and write my name on a shallow story. A story with my name on it has to have a point, has to produce something different, something of value. Writing a story does not mean only stating events, it is not even a straightforward message that the writer wants to convey. In fact, it is far more complicated than that so when it comes to a story with my name on it, it has to be something new that will push me forward and not backward.
Society regards a female who writes about feelings and emotion as one who is falling in love. That is not acceptable in most scenarios and so she is seen as going against tradition. What is your view on that?
This might have been true in the past but no more. Society is now more understanding; we see women writing books and others have columns in newspapers; some even participate in cultural activities. Besides if the author is writing about his own experiences and feelings, he will end up publishing only a handful of books. Therefore, we do not limit our writings to ourselves but we expand to include all those around us, whether we interact with them directly or not. Women’s writings are mainly emotional; they write about their challenges and feelings most of the time.
How do you receive criticism?
If I got no criticism, that would mean that critics are not interested in reading my work. Criticism is thus valuable and encourages me to improve my work and also to work more.
Why did you go into TV?
I wanted to produce something new, something that is different from what is on other channels.
Do you think that the absence of media departments in the Kingdom’s universities has left Saudi female announcers way behind?
To some extent, yes. Saudi female announcers have been able to prove themselves in a relatively short period of time but they have also managed to preserve their identity. They have the talent but they need training in order to be able to develop new skills and to be ready and able to compete with others.
Why did you leave Al-Ekhbaria shortly after you joined it?
It was a great job; I got a lot of experience there. I became used to the camera and familiar with it. I no longer fear talking to people but that was only one stage and it had to end.
Was it because you received another offer from another channel?
Definitely not. Going to Al-Aqariya (a real estate channel) and moving to Dubai provided me with many new challenges and experiences. It is beneficial to change the work place. It gives people more experiences and enable them to learn a lot from those around them.
You are the first Saudi woman to be a program manager for an Arabic channel. Exactly what do you do?
I am in charge of the programs that are broadcasted. Al-Iqtisadiyya is a specialized channel addressing political, social, cultural and medical issues in relation to economics.
How do you arrange your time so you can manage the programs, present the news, and fulfill your other duties?
Program managing is tough; it needs time, effort, and concentration. Besides I need to prove that I am right for the job. Managing 28 programs is not easy, especially since our audiences are quite familiar with economics. The news, however, has its assigned times. Writing is a part of me. No matter how busy I get, I always find the time to write.
