Egyptian entrepreneur and philanthropist Zeinab Bashier spreads her passion for Egypt through her organization We Love Egypt (Binhibik Ya Masr) on a daily basis. She is an advocate for women’s rights, a promoter of Egyptian arts and culture on an international level and is working on projects that push for sustainable de
Zeinab, what brought you to Cannes this year?
I’ve been attending the festival for many years now. This past May, I was invited to the opening ceremony and to participate in cultural and artistic events that allow me to promote Egypt on the international scene. Egyptian and French culture have many commonalities and I work on bringing the two countries closer to one another. I want to exhibit French and international artists in Egyptian museums and to promote my country as a destination for arts.
Who has inspired you the most in your life and how?
Both of my parents. They were the main source of inspiration since childhood and through my upbringing. My mother taught me to always speak and act from the heart, to have integrity, kindness and empathy towards everyone around me and to myself. My father has been my main source of discipline. He was an engineer so he gave me a true example of consistency for every aspect of life and the importance of devotion towards my work and objectives. Currently, my husband is my number one supporter and best advisor, we always discuss all important matters together. I am blessed with a loving and supporting family. I will forever be grateful as I wouldn’t be who I am today without their guidance and love.
How has your country – Egypt, helped you shape your life and career?
Ancient Egypt was among the earliest civilizations in the world. We have a unique and rich culture. The Egyptian people are widely known for honor, dignity and respecting common cultures with values of modesty, loyalty, honesty and hospitality. Since a few years now, Egypt has seen massive developmental changes through a lot of aspects such as technology, architecture, business and most importantly women empowerment. My devotion and love for my country and its people are the main motives that pushed me through my career and allowed me to overcome the obstacles.
Tell us more about your organization We Love Egypt (Binhibik Ya Masr)
For now, and with We Love Egypt, I am focusing on the United Nations’ COP27 which will be held in Egypt this November. We will work on youth development projects and organize boot camps for students from Egyptian universities throughout the week to educate the attendees about renewable energies, and all the trends in the technology and the environmental sector.
And what is your role in combating for Women’s Rights in Egypt?
Women are flourishing like never before. We call it the women’s golden era which is giving me the energy to be a participant in the growth we all see. The Egyptian lady is given opportunities on a governmental and private level, and has new rules and regulations that protect her from harassment and marginalization.
Through my organization, I manage courses that allow women to learn how to sew in order to establish their independent source of income. For example, during the latest Mother’s Day we gifted ladies sewing machines so they can launch their own business from home. We have also developed breast cancer awareness campaigns.
What are some of your upcoming projects?
Very soon I will be working with the Egyptian Foundation for Scientific Research that is conducting studies about how food can cure cancer, hereditary diseases and disorders. We help in financing these research initiatives. Food sustainability is important for age longevity and we need to improve awareness about the effects of a diet on our health and lifestyle. Together we will do campaigns in schools to fight malnutrition and obesity.
Finally, what does Egypt represent to you?
I feel very proud to be Egyptian. Every time I mention my nationality, I see a spark in people’s eyes. Individuals from around the world appreciate our history and civilization. And I would like to mention that modern developments in Egypt are equally important. Our economy is stronger than ever, and the country is evolving on a social level where women are becoming at the forefront of it all.
Text by Victor Gee
