A Saudi mother of 19 children has achieved an extraordinary academic milestone. Hamda Al Ruwaili, a 43-year-old working mother, is on the brink of completing her doctoral degree while managing her large family, professional responsibilities, and entrepreneurial endeavors. The inspiring story was originally reported by Gulf News.
Hamda, who has 10 sons and nine daughters, shared her journey on Saudi TV channel Al Ekhbariya. Despite her demanding responsibilities, she has successfully balanced her studies, work, and family life, setting an inspiring example for women worldwide.
“I don’t like chaos and haphazardness. So, I always plan my day carefully,” Hamda explained. She juggles an administrative job in the mental health sector, e-commerce pursuits, and her family obligations. Her strategy involves dedicating her daytime hours to work and childcare while reserving the night for her studies and business activities.
Her dedication to planning and family support has paid off. Hamda completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and is now finalizing her doctoral thesis. She credits her success to careful organization and a positive mindset, likening her role as a mother to that of a teacher managing a full classroom or an officer leading a platoon.
“Raising one child is like raising 10. I respond to their needs, help them achieve their goals, and encourage them to pursue their hobbies,” Hamda said. Her children excel academically, with some achieving perfect scores.
In addition to her academic success, Hamda draws strength from her family’s achievements. One of her daughters, a high school student, has been recognized as a gifted individual and is supported by the King Abdulaziz Centre for the Gifted in Riyadh.
“Despite my great responsibilities as a mother of many children, I didn’t give up on my academic dream. Thank Allah, this success was not easy, but it is the fruit of planning and continuous family support,” Hamda added.
