Season 5 · Episode 59 · 30 Jan 2026
59 - Elissa Freiha
With Elissa Freiha
“"Over the last four years, I've been fostering and growing this platform that takes back ownership of the narrative around Arab women and makes it a much more authentic and nuanced voice that we can feel proud of and represented by".”
Reflections
Q1: Place
If we could do a flypast on any part of the world that is significant to you, which place, city or country would it be and why?
Beirut in Lebanon
Q2: Life
Give us a glimpse into your life story so far with an emphasis on what you are doing currently?
Multiple identities as an Arab, American who grew up in Paris and now living in Egypt. Moved to UAE and built an angel investment business called Womena with a focus on teaching women financial literacy and inspiring women investors. This led to a passion for the feminist space and Womena evolved into a media platform aimed at feminist content that makes a positive impact on society.
Q3: Reset
Where on earth is your place or reset or re-charge?
Mothers apartment in the heart of Paris
Q4: Wonder
What wonder of the natural world excites you the most?
The Redwoods in California
Q5: Hopefulness
What is your story of hopefulness (not your own) about a person, business or non-profit who are doing amazing things for the world?
Rebecca Lolosoli is the founder and matriarch of the Umoja village in the Samburu County of Kenya. The village is a refuge for women fleeing sexual abuse and a place Elissa visited a few years back.
Q6: Insight
As we prepare to re-enter, what insight, wisdom or question would you like to share with us?
Location
Flyover
Beirut in Lebanon
Guest
🇱🇧 Egypt