Heba Alraeesi’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and courage. From the shy girl who struggled with self-confidence in school to the dynamic leader she is today, Heba has proven that with determination, anyone can rewrite their story. Her journey is a testament to overcoming personal challenges and believing in one’s potential, no matter the circumstances.
Overcoming Bullying: The Catalyst for Change
Heba’s life wasn’t always filled with promise. Growing up, she struggled with bullying. She was a kind, humble, and chubby girl who faced a lot of difficulties in her early school years. Heba always had big dreams but lacked the opportunity and support to pursue them. This resulted in a lack of confidence and a fear of public life. She wanted to speak out, to be noticed, but was often overlooked. Her years in elementary and middle school were filled with tears as she felt unworthy and inadequate.
Despite the difficulties, Heba’s inner drive refused to stay silent. She knew she had a lot to offer the world, even if no one had yet seen it. “No one believed in me at that time,” she shares, “but I always had energy inside me, just waiting to explode.”
The Turning Point: University and Student Leadership
Heba’s life took a significant turn when she entered a mixed university, a major shift after years of attending all-girls schools. The mixed environment was overwhelming for her, especially when it came to interacting with men. She was terrified and unsure how she would fit in, but she knew something had to change. She decided to push herself out of her comfort zone.
“I told myself, ‘I need to be a part of something here,’” Heba recalls. She ran for a position in the Student Representative Council, and to her surprise, the judges encouraged her to run for president. “I was so nervous. It felt like such a huge step, but I also knew it was time to stop hiding,” she admits.
In the end, Heba’s hard work paid off, and she was elected president. The victory didn’t just mark a leadership role—it was a turning point in Heba’s journey. The self-doubt and fears she once had slowly began to fade as she stepped into a new version of herself.
Heba Alraeesi:Finding Her Passion Social Work and Volunteering
The experience of leading the student council sparked something in Heba. She began to realize that her passion for social work and volunteering was something that could make a real difference in the world. “Social work allowed me to give back in a way that truly resonated with me,” she says. “I saw how much impact I could have, and that made me certain it was the right path.”
Her decision to dive deeper into social work wasn’t just about helping others—it was about transforming her own life. It was an opportunity for self-growth and to use her voice in ways she never had before. Heba knew that this was the career she was meant for.
The Greatest Achievement: Writing a Book
Among her many accomplishments, Heba’s proudest moment so far is publishing her book. “Writing my book was a huge milestone for me,” she shares. “It was about more than just putting my thoughts on paper—it was about proving to myself that I could push through difficult times and still come out on top.”
Her book is not just a collection of words; it’s a reflection of her journey, struggles, and victories. It represents her growth as an individual and as a professional. This achievement is particularly meaningful to Heba because it symbolizes her ability to overcome adversity and continue forward in the face of challenges.
Starting Strong: Navigating the Early Career Struggles
Starting out in her professional journey wasn’t easy for Heba. She had to work hard to prove herself, especially when the bullying and insecurities from her school days still lingered. “At first, it was hard for people to take me seriously,” she admits. “I was just trying to figure out who I was and how I could make an impact.”
However, she did not give up. Heba’s determination, fueled by years of wanting to be heard and seen, eventually led her to the front lines. She discovered that even when the odds were stacked against her, persistence was key. “When I started college, I made a decision that I would no longer let fear control me,” she says.
Current Work and Career Goals: Empowering Through Inspiration
Now, Heba is focused on continuously improving herself, both professionally and personally. “I’m working on a lot of things right now, from improving my social media presence to taking part in interviews and volunteering,” she says. “My goal is to inspire others, to show them that you can transform your life, just like I did.”
She sees every day as an opportunity to learn and grow. Her ambition is not just to be successful for herself, but to become a role model who can make a positive impact on others.
Drawing Inspiration: The Power of Self-Motivation
While many look to mentors or role models for inspiration, Heba finds her motivation from within. “I know this might sound strange, but the person who inspires me most is myself,” she confides. “I’ve been through so many challenges in my life, and to see where I am now makes me proud of how far I’ve come.”
Her ability to turn her struggles into strength is one of her greatest assets. Heba’s resilience is a reminder that even when things seem impossible, there’s always room to grow and change.
Overcoming Setbacks: The Role of Persistence
Heba’s career hasn’t been without its setbacks. “I face challenges every day,” she admits. “But I’ve learned that setbacks are just part of the process. The key is to keep moving forward.”
Her message to others is clear: setbacks are not failures—they are simply stepping stones on the road to success. “It’s okay to feel down, but always get back up,” she encourages. “Patience and persistence are the best tools in facing obstacles.”
The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with Positive People
Heba has learned the importance of surrounding herself with the right people—those who support and encourage her. “I’ve learned to stay away from negative influences,” she says. “You can’t let people drag you down. It’s essential to have friends who believe in you and motivate you to be your best.”
Her advice is simple: “Don’t listen to the people who doubt you. Trust yourself, your vision, and your journey.”
Redefining Success: Humility and Growth
For Heba, success is not just about achieving great things—it’s about staying grounded. “Success means going higher, achieving more, but also staying humble,” she says. “When you reach the top, it’s important not to let success change you. Always be kind and humble, because success can disappear just as quickly as it arrives.”
Words of Wisdom for Her Younger Self
Looking back, Heba has a message for her younger self: “Thank you for being resilient. I apologize for the struggles you faced, but I am proud of how strong you became.” It’s clear that Heba has learned to embrace both her past and her future, with an unwavering belief in her own strength.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy: A Vision for the Future
Heba hopes to be remembered as someone who inspired others to be kind, humble, and resilient. “I want to be remembered as someone who made a difference, who had a positive impact on others,” she says. “I want people to think of me as a superwoman who faced life’s challenges with a smile.”
Her ultimate legacy is one of compassion, determination, and the unwavering belief that no matter where you start, you can always rise. Do follow her on Instagram
