Monday, 25 May 2026
Shaimaa Ali, founder of Sun of Africa
Shaimaa Ali empowers refugee women in Egypt through Sun of Africa
When the world seems overwhelmed by complexity and uncertainty, stories like Shaimaa Ali’s shine as gentle beacons of hope and resilience. Through her compassion, determination, and vision, Shaimaa has become a lifeline for countless refugee women, helping them rediscover their strength and sense of self in the aftermath of displacement, hardship, and loss.
The Nile Observer interviewed refugee, migration law consaltant Shaimaa, the visionary founder behind “Sun of Africa” (“Shams Africa”). In our conversation, she shared her journey, her dreams, and her steadfast commitment to uplifting refugee and marginalized women across the continent.
A journey shaped by courage and compassion
Shaimaa’s path was forged during her work with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), where she immersed herself in projects addressing irregular migration and human trafficking. As she listened to the stories of women and girls who had survived profound violations, she was moved not only by their pain but also by the remarkable resilience and hope they carried in their hearts.
“My experience taught me that the law is not merely words on paper—it can be a powerful tool for both protection and empowerment,” she said.
Among her proudest achievements was contributing to a guide that mapped out safe spaces—places where refugee women could seek services. Yet, Shaimaa’s passion for healing and empowerment led her even further. She saw firsthand how weaving art and sports into empowerment programs didn’t simply teach new skills, but could transform self-perception.
Embroidery workshops, pottery, jewelry making, and group sports became spaces where women could rediscover joy, connection, and confidence—seeing themselves not just as survivors, but as creators, innovators, and leaders in their own right.
Nurturing families through awareness and compassion
“Because women are the heart of their families, we felt strongly that mothers in our community should be supported and informed,” Shaimaa said.
Recognizing the unique influence a mother holds—helping to guide, shape, and protect her children—“we organized a warm and supportive awareness session on the risks of irregular migration. Special attention was given to the dangers of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, knowing these are challenges that impact so many, especially young people and women.”
Our session, she added, was designed to equip mothers with clear, practical information about how exploitation happens and the tactics used to deceive young people along migration routes.
“We also aimed to help mothers identify the signs of trafficking and to understand the ways in which children and minors are often targeted.
Additionally, we sought to empower mothers to open caring conversations with their children, encouraging them to distinguish between genuine opportunities and potential risks.”
Finally, she added, we provided accessible information about safe, legal migration pathways and the protection services available to those who need them.
“At the heart of our approach is the belief that awareness truly begins at home. An informed and loving mother is her child’s first and strongest line of defense, shielding not only their safety but also their future aspirations.”
Supporting mental well-being: Listening to ‘Unheard Voices’
Shaimaa said that, continuing our commitment to the holistic well-being of children, we launched the “Unheard Voices” initiative—an awareness session dedicated to nurturing refugee and migrant mothers as they support their children’s emotional health.
“We recognize that settling into a new environment brings a host of challenges, both visible and invisible, for children and families alike.”
In this supportive space, Shaimaa said, we addressed the common emotional effects children may experience after migration, such as anxiety, trouble sleeping, social withdrawal, and difficulty adapting. We also emphasized the importance of fostering open, understanding communication between mothers and children, so that each child feels truly heard. In addition, we shared simple and gentle strategies to help children feel secure and develop a genuine sense of belonging. Finally, we offered guidance on when to seek professional help and how to recognize the signs that a child may need extra support.
“What made the session truly special was its warm, interactive nature—mothers exchanged personal stories, shared practical advice, and discovered uplifting ways to nurture mental wellness within their families. The atmosphere was filled with empathy, hope, and encouragement.”
In the end, “we believe real awareness is possible only when every voice is heard and honored—no one left behind.”
Tackling barriers with empathy
The obstacles Shaimaa faced were immense. Language and culture often rendered essential health conversations nearly impossible, especially on sensitive subjects like reproductive health or family planning. Myths, rumors, and fear crowded out accurate information, leaving women uninformed and vulnerable.
Shaimaa’s approach was humble yet powerful. By simplifying messages, harnessing the creative power of theatre and visual tools, and collaborating with trusted educators from within these communities, the conversations began to open. Closed women’s sessions blossomed into safe spaces where questions could be asked without fear or shame.
For Shaimaa, reproductive health is inseparable from dignity and rights—a bedrock for true empowerment. “A refugee who is unaware of her health rights, or unable to make decisions about her own body, will always remain vulnerable, no matter how much she learns or works,” she explained with empathy and conviction.
Her model includes three key pillars: early education, the involvement of men alongside women in dialogue and support, and the use of art, storytelling, and media to make health messages accessible and relatable.
The Sun of Africa vision: Lighting a continent
Shaimaa dreams beyond borders. Her initiative, “Shams Africa,” began as a modest community project but now carries the hope of becoming a continent-wide model of empowerment: a holistic, sustainable platform where refugee and marginalized women can access economic opportunities, legal and health awareness, and psychological support.
She envisions centers springing up across provinces, connecting women to local and global markets, sharing their art and crafts, and nurturing trainers to take this spirit to even more communities. “Sun of Africa is not just a name; it is a vision for a continent defined by justice, opportunity, and genuine empowerment from the ground up. What we are building now is only the beginning.”
Shaimaa’s heart: Family, books, and hope
Beyond her professional achievements, Shaimaa draws energy from the warmth of her family and the quiet escape of literature. Her daughter, Khadija—her “light and hope”—inspires her daily. Memories of her late mother, along with the unwavering support of her sisters, Amira and Samar, have shaped her commitment to helping others.
Reading is Shaimaa’s sacred refuge. The pages of Naguib Mahfouz, Radwa Ashour, Robin Sharma, and Yusuf Idris offer her both solace and new perspectives, nourishing her intellect and soul.
A message for all dreamers and survivors
To every girl, every refugee, and every courageous soul working for change, Shaimaa’s message is both gentle and empowering:
“Never underestimate your steps, even if they are slow. True change begins with a believing heart and a patient soul. Every time you speak up for what is right, extend a hand to someone in need, or simply take one step toward your own growth, that is real ‘change.’”
“To every refugee, I say: you are not just a number or a file. You are a story, a spirit, and possess an endless ability to rise, no matter what happens.”