The most inspiring people in the world are those who achieve great things in the face of adversity, like Zainab Al-Eqabi. She’s an unstoppable Iraqi para-athlete whose leg was amputated at the tender age of seven after an unexploded bomb from the Gulf War detonated at her family’s home in Baghdad.
“Pain and passion for life are what inspired me to take up sports and change my life,” Al-Eqabi shared in an exclusive interview with GRAZIA. She took up sports while attending university, per a doctor’s recommendation. “I wasn’t introduced to sports earlier on in my life, probably because it was not part of our culture and my family was over-protective of their child who is an amputee.”
Today, Zainab Al-Eqabi is a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur who has spent her career mastering extreme sports, like scuba diving, and inspiring audiences with motivational speeches. You might recognise her from her TEDx talks or from her appointment as Volkswagen’s Middle East Brand Ambassador. Discover expert advice on nurturing mental health and finding self-acceptance in our interview with this inspirational female para-athlete ahead.
When presented with challenges that might seem insurmountable, what keeps you determined to follow through on your goals?
Zainab Al Eqabi: “My passion, along with the voice in my head that says, ‘Why give up or stop trying?’ This is what keeps me focused and determined to follow through on my goals, no matter how hard they are to achieve or how long it takes. If a goal is unattainable and I am certain that it is a closed door, I move on and focus on my next goal.
I am a great believer in the power of attraction, and if I keep visualizing my goals and maintain resilience, they will manifest and become a reality at the right time, despite how long it takes. However, I also maintain a balance and accept that some things are not meant to happen and let things go with a smile if I am unable to achieve them. I know that it is gone for a good reason, and there are way better things out there for me.”
You’ve achieved so much in your life. Can you pinpoint a moment in your career that you are most proud of?
Z.A.E: “I am super grateful for everything that I have achieved in my life. Recently, I became the Middle East Brand Ambassador for Volkswagen. I had visualized and dreamed of a partnership with Volkswagen for a couple of years as I love the brand and its values of moving people forward. This partnership happened at the right time and in a much bigger format than I had imagined! As a person who loves driving and feels at peace behind the wheel of a great car (with great music), which helps me to brainstorm great ideas and allows me to dream big, I feel honoured to represent every person who loves driving, particularly women, through this ambassadorship.”
What advice do you have for our readers who might be struggling with self-acceptance?
Z.A.E: “Be kind to yourself. We are all truly unique and of great value in our own ways, with everything, we were born with. We have so much beauty, strength, power, knowledge and skills to share and enjoy in this life. We all deserve to be appreciated. Never fall into the trap of comparison, or accept other people or circumstances that make you feel worthless. Because you are not worthless and will never be.”
You’ve touched so many people in a positive way. Who is one person in your life that has influenced you the most?
Z.A.E: “Every stage of my life was influenced differently. However, childhood and teenage years are the foundation and most important stages that could influence one’s personality and mindset. I am super grateful to have a very strong and supportive mother who made sure that I stay strong and true to myself, no matter how harsh life could be. She is my superhero who always made my tears turn into a smile, encouraging me to achieve my goals and continuously reminding me that everything happens for a good reason.”
You’re known for the phrase, “It’s all about your mindset.” What self-care practices do you have that help you maintain your positive mindset?
Z.A.E: “A positive mindset is developed from a combination of practices and differs for everyone. A great way to recharge your soul and mind with books, podcasts, thoughts or ideas that speak to yu deeply and will give you strength and clarity to look at life from a much bigger perspective. Being active, being in touch with mother nature, travelling when possible and getting to know different cultures and, most importantly, spending quality time with myself and my loved ones also help me maintain a positive mindset.”
