Over 10,000 residents call the DQ home. Meet Your Neighbor profiles interesting people in our international DQ Community. Learn about the diverse experience, interests, and backgrounds of DQ dwellers. Read on, and Meet Your Neighbor.
Tell us about yourself.
I founded the Wadi Book Club, an inclusive place where everyone is welcome to read and discuss English literature – both fiction and nonfiction. If you’re interested in joining the Wadi Book Club, please find us on Instagram @wadibookclub
How would family and friends describe you?
I have a lot of energy, which is encouraging and exhausting for my friends and family in equal measures!
Who or what have been the strongest influences in your life?
Gertrude Bell. She was a British diplomat and explorer who was the first Westerner to travel across the desert from Damascus to Ha’il. She inspired my interest in the Middle East.
What brought you to Riyadh?
My husband saw a job opportunity here and we decided that this would be an exciting adventure for us! I then also landed a job in Riyadh with the strategic communications firm, Edelman.
What led you to your career and how has Saudi Arabia helped you in your career goals?
In the UK, I was a TV producer – I’ve made history documentaries for the BBC, Netflix, Discovery Channel, and more. I’d wanted to be a TV producer since I was sixteen, so after I finished my Bachelor’s degree in Classics, I moved straight to London and worked my way up the career ladder. Then I decided to study for a Masters in Strategic Communications, which opened up a whole new career path for me – one which I’ve started here in Riyadh by working for Edelman.
What are you most proud of accomplishing so far?
Winning an award for my short film, Painting Freedom, which was about rehabilitation through art for Yazidi women who had escaped ISIS captivity.
What are your thoughts and insights on being a resident of Saudi Arabia?
This country has so much to offer. Kind people, beautiful landscapes, great food, and an infectious sense of optimism. I’m keen to watch, learn, and contribute where I can to the transformation that is happening here.
Where are your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?
We always take guests who visit us to Saudi Scenes Gallery. Duaa, who runs it, always has such a wonderful selection of paintings, gifts, and antiques.
What were your first impressions of the DQ?
I remember noticing the beautiful patterns in the covered walkways around Fazari and Al Kindy Squares. I love the simple, elegant designs that create a sense of openness while also providing shade.
What is something you wish the DQ had, but currently doesn’t?
Clothing stores. Preferably a second-hand or ethically-sourced clothing store too, so that we can stay socially and environmentally responsible with our shopping.
Any tips/recommendations/advice for your DQ neighbors?
Get involved with all the brilliant things going on in the DQ! There is a wonderful thriving community here – you can attend picnics, yoga classes, walking groups, language groups, or even (shameless plug) the Wadi Book Club!
What are you looking forward to in the coming season?
I’m looking forward to finding out what Ramadan is like! I can’t wait to attend an iftar.
