My Bio

Interdisciplinary Scholar

Growing up in Cairo, Egypt, Shaimaa Ibrahim navigated a world of contrasts. Raised in a traditional society yet encouraged to challenge norms, she developed a passion for education and social justice early on. Her journey led her through a selective gifted education program, where she honed her critical thinking and leadership skills, and into classrooms where she tutored disadvantaged peers. These formative experiences ignited her desire to make education more eq

Shaimaa’s drive for learning led her around the globe—from winning a national competition that took her to study theater in Rome to being selected as a Fulbright Scholar in the U.S. Throughout her travels and studies, she witnessed the multifaceted struggles women and marginalized communities face worldwide. She became determined to address these challenges by advocating for inclusive educational policies and building a space for open dialogue across cultures and identities.

Now pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership at William & Mary, Shaimaa focuses her research on issues like First Amendment rights within higher education, diversity and inclusion policies, and leadership representation in schools. Her work draws upon her own experiences as a Middle Eastern woman navigating different cultural identities and advocating for change in institutions.

A teacher, public speaker, and academic coach, Shaimaa seeks to bridge divides and foster environments where every student feels seen and valued. With a deep understanding of how intersecting identities shape educational experiences, she continues to work toward a world where inclusivity and equity are more than ideals—they are realities.