Fatmah Ahmed Selim: Egypt’s Youngest MP Breaking Barriers

From Beni Suef to Parliament: A Journey of Determination

Born in Beni Suef, Upper Egypt, Fatmah Ahmed Selim’s path to becoming Egypt’s youngest female Member of Parliament (MP) is a testament to resilience and ambition. At just 25 years old, she took the constitutional oath in January 2021, marking a significant milestone in Egypt’s political landscape.

Fatmah’s political journey began unexpectedly. She became eligible to run for office only ten days before the nomination deadline. Recognizing her potential, the Reform and Development Party included her in the National Unified List for Egypt North, Central, and Southern Upper Egypt.

Early Life and Educational Pursuits

Fatmah’s academic journey laid a strong foundation for her political career. She graduated from the Faculty of Mass Communication in 2018. During her university years, she actively participated in the Reform and Development Party’s activities, attending meetings and seminars that honed her understanding of political dynamics.

Post-graduation, she ventured into media, working with a company producing educational short films and documentaries, many sponsored by the United Nations. Her passion for media led her to study Arabic at the Al-Ahram Institute, aiming to enhance her skills as a TV presenter. By late 2018, she was working as a news presenter at AlHadath AlYoum channel.

Championing Women’s Empowerment in Upper Egypt

Fatmah’s primary focus as an MP is the empowerment of women, especially in Upper Egypt. She acknowledges the challenges women face in the region, particularly in employment opportunities. “Women everywhere always face the challenge of what they are able to do, and in Upper Egypt, women are struggling to find work,” she stated.

Her mission is to change the societal perception of women’s roles, advocating for equal opportunities and rights. She believes that showcasing successful women in leadership positions can inspire others and drive societal change.

Addressing Youth Unemployment and Human Rights

Beyond women’s issues, Fatmah is deeply committed to addressing youth unemployment and human rights. She understands the struggles young people face in securing employment, often due to a lack of experience. “Many have faced problems of being rejected from work opportunities due to a lack of experience. But how can people get experience when no one wants to give them the chance to work?” she questioned.

Fatmah advocates for companies to invest in training programs for students and graduates, bridging the gap between education and employment. She also emphasizes the importance of human rights, aiming to raise awareness and ensure that citizens are informed about their rights and freedoms.

A Family Rooted in Public Service

Public service runs in Fatmah’s family. Her father, Ahmed Mohsen Mubarak, serves as a member of the Egyptian Senate, representing a different political party. This familial connection to politics has undoubtedly influenced her perspective and dedication to serving her constituents.

Engaging with Constituents and Building Trust

Fatmah places a strong emphasis on engaging with her constituents. During her campaign, she visited various areas in Upper Egypt, listening to the concerns and challenges faced by the residents. This hands-on approach has helped her build trust and understand the unique needs of her community.

She believes in transparent communication and is committed to being accessible to those she represents. By fostering open dialogues, she aims to create effective solutions that address the root causes of the issues faced by her constituents.

A Vision for the Future

Fatmah Ahmed Selim’s journey from a university student to Egypt’s youngest female MP is inspiring. Her dedication to women’s empowerment, youth employment, and human rights showcases her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

As she continues her work in Parliament, Fatmah remains focused on her goals, striving to make a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for young individuals, especially women, aspiring to make a positive impact in their communities.