An Extraordinary Beginning
Dr. Sawsan Saad’s journey began in the early hours of a Saturday morning at Tawam Hospital in Al Ain City. Born into a culturally rich family with Egyptian heritage and Jordanian values, her arrival was marked by an unusual silence. The professor who delivered her predicted a bright future, and indeed, Sawsan lived up to that promise. Her academic excellence was evident early on, graduating from Al Sarooj High School for Girls with an impressive 97.9% average.
Defying Expectations
From a young age, Sawsan felt a strong pull towards the arts and media. “Presenting on the school stage was a pivotal moment that shaped my career,” she recalls. Despite pressure to pursue conventional fields like medicine or engineering, she remained committed to her passion for media. Her drive to follow her true calling as a TV presenter was met with resistance, yet she persevered, blending Jordanian intellect with Egyptian roots and an Emirati spirit.
Breaking Free and Finding Her Voice
Sawsan’s path was not without its struggles. Initially, she studied business administration and marketing to meet her family’s expectations. “It was the right choice because sports media matched my purpose in life to spread messages easily and make people healthier and happier,” she explains. After graduating, she worked in various jobs she didn’t love, realizing that her true passion lay in media. She made the bold decision to resign from a prestigious project management role to pursue her dream of becoming a TV presenter.
Reaching New Heights
Dubai’s vibrant environment played a pivotal role in Sawsan’s rise to prominence. Embracing her love for sports, theater, and cinema, she ventured into fields traditionally dominated by men. Her roles included being the official commentator for major events such as the Club World Cup and the Formula E in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. Sawsan’s versatility also saw her working with esteemed organizations like Abu Dhabi Media, Physique TV, and Dubai Media Incorporated.
“My biggest achievement is earning a PhD in sports media and becoming a trainer for my own workshops and courses,” she shares. This accomplishment is important to her because it allows her to help others in the field and teach them to achieve their dreams.
A Vision for the Future
Currently, Sawsan is focusing on her company, Alivo, which offers sports media workshops, courses, and event organizing. This venture aligns perfectly with her career goals, allowing her to continue sharing her knowledge and passion for sports media.
Overcoming Challenges
Dr. Sawsan Saad’s career has not been without its hurdles. “I always wanted to be a TV presenter, but my family did not support this. I studied and worked in fields I didn’t like until I realized I was living their dream, not mine,” she reflects. After resigning from a top government role, she was offered a TV sports show by Fox International Channels, marking a significant turning point in her career.
Staying Motivated and Positive
To maintain her motivation and positivity, Sawsan engages in racket sports, ice baths, and deep breathing exercises. “Surrounding myself with like-minded people who share the same mindset helps me stay focused and driven,” she explains.
Lessons Learned
Sawsan acknowledges that not everything lasts forever. “Losing my job as a TV presenter was a significant setback, but it taught me that nothing is guaranteed. This didn’t stop me from opening my own company,” she says. She has learned that continuous self-education and skill development are crucial for staying ahead in her field. “Training and educating yourself is essential, and you must believe in yourself with good thoughts and intentions,” she advises.
Evolving Definition of Success
Sawsan’s definition of success has evolved over time. “Success now means achieving peace of mind and accepting normalcy. In today’s social media age, where no one wants to be normal, finding contentment in simplicity is key,” she notes.
Advice for Her Younger Self
Reflecting on her journey, Sawsan offers this advice: “Live your dream, not your family’s dream, and just start.” This perspective, shaped by her experiences, emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions and taking bold steps toward achieving them.
Dr. Sawsan Saad’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and staying true to oneself. Her journey from a quiet beginning to becoming a prominent media personality and sports commentator serves as an inspiration to many. For more about Dr. Sawsan Saad’s work and achievements, visit www.sawsansaad.com .
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