My career has been shaped by countless moments, each one daring me to grow beyond what I thought possible. Yet when I trace the path back to where it all began, one thread stands out clearly: courage. Courage to take the leap, and courage strengthened by the many people who believed in me and lent me their support along the way.

I decided to join the oilfield industry, of all places, right after graduating from college. The more conventional path would have been to pursue a career in a field directly tied to my electrical engineering degree. Something less challenging, more predictable, and more “acceptable” at the time.

But my gut showed me the right path, steering me away from the norm and toward a leap of faith.

Twenty years ago, women were rarely seen in the field, especially in the Middle East. My decision didn’t just require courage; it required resilience. And it ultimately led me to become the first woman national to run coiled tubing crews on well sites in Egypt.

My choice may not have been the obvious or easy one, but it set me on a journey of breaking barriers, proving that I was more than capable, and opening doors for others to follow.

It was a demanding environment, to be sure. Many people in the region openly questioned whether women even belonged in the oilfield. At home, however, I had the unwavering support of my family—my father, mother, and grandfather. They believed in me when others questioned my choice, and their encouragement gave me the strength to push forward.

There were many leaders within SLB that did the same. Seeing beyond the cultural barriers of their day, they believed women would thrive in technical and leadership roles. Their trust and willingness to give me opportunities across different geographies reinforced my determination to surpass expectations and build a career that could inspire others.

The victory I’m most proud of though? It doesn’t lie in recognition or titles. It’s about the privilege of serving others.

Over the years, I’ve tried to be a light for young women by passing on knowledge and showing that growth is possible even when challenges seem overwhelming. That triumph lives in the success of others. Helping people push beyond their perceived limits, as I did in my early years, is my greatest reward.

As SLB celebrates 100 years, I’m proud to stand at the start of its next century. I’m proud to be part of a company and industry that not only powers the world but also shapes it. To have the opportunity to prove that even in the oilfield, we can innovate and develop projects that build a more responsible future. It’s incredibly meaningful to me.

To the next generation of women in energy: Your path may not always make “conventional” sense. I strongly encourage you to take it anyway.