Joumana Haddad is an author, activist, mother, self-proclaimed troublemaker, and co-founder of Café Brairie33. She is a woman who has spent her life challenging limits and breaking barriers. More than just a writer, she is a cultural force who dares to say what many are afraid to speak out loud. From fighting for women’s rights to standing up for secularism in the Arab world, her story is filled with passion, courage, and inspiration.
Beirut Roots A Childhood in Conflict
Born in Beirut in 1970, Joumana Haddad grew up during the Lebanese Civil War. Living in the middle of violence and division, she witnessed firsthand the damage caused by religious and political conflict. These early experiences shaped her thinking deeply. As a child, she turned to books, poetry, and art. These became her safe space and later, her strongest tools in the fight for justice and self-expression.
From Editor to Literary Rebel
Joumana started her professional journey in journalism. She worked her way up to become the cultural editor of a major Lebanese newspaper. In this role, she brought bold, progressive voices into the public spotlight. She interviewed global writers and thinkers, offering Arab readers a fresh view of the literary world.
In 2009, she launched a groundbreaking magazine that focused on the human body, art, and sexuality. The publication stirred huge debate in the Arab world. It was bold, it was raw, and it challenged deep-rooted beliefs. While some praised her, others were quick to attack. But she never backed down.
Awards and Global Recognition
Her bravery and creativity have earned her numerous international awards. From literature to journalism and activism, her work has received recognition in many countries. She has been named one of the most influential Arab women and has appeared on global lists honoring people driving social and cultural change. Joumana continues to show how powerful a pen can be when used with truth and courage.
Challenging Taboos and Breaking Stereotypes
Joumana Haddad does not believe in silence. She speaks openly about topics that are often avoided in Arab society such as sexuality, religion, gender identity, and personal freedom. Her bestselling book I Killed Scheherazade was a bold critique of how Arab women are portrayed both by Western media and by their own culture.
Through poetry and essays, she questions traditional gender roles and confronts the patriarchy. Her writing is raw and fearless. She has said that she feels like both woman and man, because real power is not about gender, but about honesty and strength of character.
A Voice on TV and Podcasting
Joumana has not limited her voice to books and articles. She has taken her message to television, becoming a host who covers topics like freedom of speech, feminism, religion, and identity. Her presence on screen is both powerful and thoughtful. She brings sharp insights and deep compassion to every conversation.
In 2024, she co-launched a podcast called Girl Talk. The podcast dives into real issues faced by Arab women including relationships, sexuality, identity, and daily struggles. It has quickly become a favorite among younger listeners who crave honesty and authenticity.
Political Activism and Fearless Campaigns
Joumana is not just a writer. She is a fighter for real change. In 2018, she ran for a seat in the Lebanese Parliament. Her campaign focused on transparency, gender equality, and secularism. Although she did not win, her message shook the system. She opened a space for new voices and brought attention to important issues often ignored by traditional politicians.
She has faced threats, hate, and even lawsuits. But none of it has stopped her. She continues to speak out for justice, no matter the cost.
Building Safe Spaces for Thought and Art
Joumana believes in creating real spaces for learning, creativity, and freedom. In 2019, she launched the Joumana Haddad Freedoms Center. This place is dedicated to educating young people about secularism, human rights, and freedom of expression. Through workshops and events, the center empowers the next generation to think freely and challenge injustice.
More recently, she co-founded Café Brairie33 in Beirut. This unique space is part café, part bookstore, and part cultural hub. It is designed to bring people together, spark conversations, and support local art. It reflects everything Joumana stands for creative freedom, community, and courage.
The Woman Behind the Public Image
Joumana is also a mother of two sons. She often shares how important motherhood is to her, and how it blends into her life as an activist and artist. On social media, she gives a personal look into her daily life her love for coffee, her poetry events, her quiet moments and loud protests.
She proudly calls herself a troublemaker. Not because she enjoys conflict, but because she believes that challenging injustice is necessary. For her, stirring the waters is how change begins.
Her Latest Work Still Making Waves
Joumana continues to write and publish. In 2022, she released The Book of Queens a powerful novel telling the story of four women across generations. It explores pain, survival, and the ways women resist and heal. The book is another example of her deep commitment to highlighting women’s voices and experiences.
Alongside writing, she continues to host talks, support local causes, and grow her podcast and cultural projects. Her mission stays the same to inspire thought, spark change, and open minds.
Why Her Story Matters
Joumana Haddad’s journey is bigger than just her own. It speaks to every woman who was told to be quiet. It speaks to anyone who has felt trapped by culture, tradition, or fear. Through her boldness, she has shown that art can be activism, that being a parent does not cancel your rebellion, and that speaking up is always worth it.
Her story encourages others to be brave, to read more, to question more, and to believe that change is possible even in the toughest environments.
Final Thoughts A Fire That Keeps Burning
At 54, Joumana Haddad is as active as ever. From writing and podcasting to running cafés and mentoring youth, she continues to be a voice for the unheard. Every project she starts, every word she writes, fuels a larger movement toward equality and freedom.
Joumana is not just telling stories. She is rewriting the rules. And in doing so, she lights a fire that inspires others to rise, to speak, and to live fully.
Do follow her on Instagram
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