From Acting to Media: A Passionate Beginning
Zainab Al Matrooshi’s journey in the creative world began on stage before transitioning into the media industry. Her acting debut included roles in Fashionista alongside Haifa Hussein and Between Grandfather and Humor, directed by Hassan Rajab. She also participated in several Emirati short films. Despite her initial success in acting, Zainab’s curiosity and passion for storytelling led her to pursue a career in media. Starting as a trainee at Fujairah TV, she honed her skills by preparing program segments and crafting external reports for Seven on Seven. Over time, her dedication and improvisational skills earned her a spot as a presenter, showcasing her versatility in using advanced tools like the “Autokio” device.
A Dream Turned Reality: Why She Chose Media
For Zainab Al Matrooshi, media was more than a profession—it was a lifelong dream. Her childhood love for storytelling blossomed into a career path supported by her academic pursuits. She completed her master’s degree in media at the University of Sharjah, a testament to her dedication to understanding the nuances of the field. “I wanted to gain sufficient culture in various aspects of media,” Zainab shared, highlighting her commitment to lifelong learning.
Hosting Success: Highlights from Fujairah TV
Zainab’s vibrant personality shines through her hosting of popular programs like Cardamom and Saffron during Ramadan and Good Morning Homeland, a daily morning show from Sunday to Thursday. Both programs allow her to connect deeply with Emirati culture and her audience.
Cardamom and Saffron, close to Zainab’s heart, reflects the Emirati heritage. Partnering with Emirati storyteller Maryam Al-Dhanhani, Zainab delved into traditional tales, enriching her understanding of local customs. “It gave me the opportunity to learn vocabulary and terminology tied to our cultural heritage,” she said.
Meanwhile, Good Morning Homeland captures the essence of daily life, addressing a wide range of topics, from family and health to social and artistic discussions. The show balances information and entertainment, offering audiences a meaningful start to their day.
Media’s Gifts and Challenges
The media profession has been both rewarding and challenging for Zainab Al Matrooshi. It taught her to approach conversations rationally and back her discussions with facts. She cherishes the opportunities to explore diverse venues like museums and galleries while shooting external reports.
However, the initial adjustment to long working hours posed a challenge. Over time, she developed effective time management skills to maintain harmony between her career and personal life. Her unwavering passion for media has enabled her to excel professionally while nurturing her family responsibilities.
Influential Mentors and Supporters
Zainab Al Matrooshicredits her growth to key mentors at Fujairah TV. “Imad Bassil was instrumental in my journey. He guided me in both theoretical and practical aspects of media,” she expressed with gratitude. His faith in her abilities motivated Zainab to thrive in a competitive industry.
The Reality of Emirati Women in Media
Zainab is proud of the strides Emirati women have made in the media industry. “We’ve proven our worth across visual and audio platforms,” she affirmed. She encourages aspiring Emirati women to persevere and approach challenges with determination. “As daughters of the UAE, we don’t know the impossible,” Zainab said, inspiring women to pursue their passions wholeheartedly.
Returning to Acting: A Conditional Comeback
While media remains her primary focus, Zainab Al Matrooshi is open to returning to acting. Her condition? The project must deliver a meaningful and impactful message to society. She emphasized her respect for the art of acting, stating, “I didn’t leave acting due to a lack of interest but rather personal circumstances.”
Knowledge as a Cornerstone of Success
Zainab Al Matrooshi believes that continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. She finds inspiration in programs like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, which she credits for expanding her knowledge base. “Such shows offer cultural, historical, and scientific insights that are invaluable for daily life and work,” she remarked.
Message for Aspiring Media Professionals
For ambitious women entering the media world, Zainab Al Matrooshi offers invaluable advice: “Work with love and passion, and never let life’s difficulties deter you from reaching your goals.” Her message underscores the importance of perseverance and self-belief in achieving success.
Zainab’s Legacy: Balancing Work and Passion
Through her dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence, Zainab Al Matrooshi has become a role model for many. Her story is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and a passion for purpose-driven endeavors. Whether through her engaging TV programs or her thoughtful reflections on life and career, Zainab continues to inspire those around her.
In a world where balancing personal and professional lives can be challenging, Zainab Al Matrooshi’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and determination. Her commitment to purposeful work and her openness to returning to acting highlight her multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to making a difference.
