Mona Eltahawy

Date of Birth: August 1, 1967

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Biography

Mona Eltahawy is an Egyptian-American journalist and social commentator known for her incisive critique of the intersection of politics, religion, and gender in the Arab and Muslim world. Born in Port Said, Egypt, she moved to the United Kingdom at the age of 7 and later to Saudi Arabia. Eltahawy attended the American University in Cairo, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Mass Communication and a Master’s degree in Journalism. Eltahawy began her career as a news reporter in the Middle East, working for Reuters and other international news outlets. She gained international recognition for her coverage of the Arab Spring and her outspoken advocacy for women’s rights. In 2011, she was arrested and assaulted by Egyptian security forces while covering protests in Cairo, an incident that she later detailed in various articles and interviews. Eltahawy’s work has appeared in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. She has also authored books such as “Headscarves and Hymens: Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution” and “The Seven Necessary Sins for Women and Girls,” which further cemented her reputation as a fearless critic of patriarchal structures.

5 Interesting Facts about Mona Eltahawy

1. Mona Eltahawy is fluent in Arabic and English and has a working knowledge of French.

2. She has been named one of the “100 Most Powerful Arab Women” by Arabian Business magazine.

3. In addition to journalism, Eltahawy is a frequent speaker at universities and conferences worldwide, advocating for women’s rights and freedom of expression.

4. She has received several awards for her journalism, including the Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press.

5. Eltahawy underwent a double wrist surgery after being beaten and sexually assaulted by Egyptian police during the 2011 protests.