Introduction
At one of the most high-profile cultural events in the region—the Red Sea Film Festival—Abeer Shoukini wasn’t just managing branding. She was commanding it. Behind the stunning visuals and cohesive narratives was a woman juggling tight timelines, enormous pressure, and creative expectations, all while battling a storm far beyond her control: a war back home in Lebanon.
Creating While the World Was Crashing
As the festival unfolded in Saudi Arabia, Abeer was in constant motion, giving everything she had to ensure success. But behind the scenes, her heart was elsewhere—with her family, her country, and the chaos unfolding back home.
“I was working around the clock while carrying fear for my country and my family.”
It wasn’t just about work stress—it was personal. She was managing external chaos and internal pressure, all while navigating a work environment that tested her boundaries.
Rising in the Face of Resistance
Leadership isn’t always about titles. Sometimes, it’s about staying professional when you’re being pushed, maintaining grace when you’re being tested, and refusing to shrink in the face of toxic energy.
Abeer faced individuals who tried to “cut her wings”—undermining her confidence and challenging her authority. But she held her ground.
What made the difference? Supportive leadership. Her boss stood beside her when it counted—reminding her that real leaders don’t just fight for deliverables, they fight for their people.
“That experience taught me how strong I really am.”
Redefining Leadership on Her Own Terms
Abeer’s story challenges the myth that being a leader means being liked. Through the fire of professional and personal pressure, she learned that true leadership is about presence, protection, and perseverance.
She protected her space, preserved her dignity, and pushed through the noise to deliver excellence. Her story is one of emotional intelligence meeting creative strategy, and tenacity meeting purpose.
Key Takeaways from Abeer’s Journey
🔹 Leadership Amid Crisis: Delivering high-impact work while managing emotional stress from external events—especially war—takes resilience few can imagine.
🔹 Navigating Workplace Politics: Standing firm against those who try to silence or diminish your role is part of stepping into real leadership.
🔹 The Power of Allyship: A supportive boss or mentor can be the difference between burnout and breakthrough. Leadership is about who you stand up for, not just what you deliver.
🔹 Personal Strength as a Professional Asset: Abeer’s endurance and clarity under pressure are what define her—not just her title or responsibilities.
Final thoughts
Abeer Shoukini’s story is a reminder that the strongest leaders often rise quietly in the background—working late, staying composed, and still choosing to show up with full force, even when their world is shaking.
Her journey is a testament to the power of professionalism, boundaries, and inner strength. And to every woman navigating stress, expectations, and unseen battles—this is your sign: you’re stronger than you know, and you’re not alone!