Award-winning creative entrepreneur Eman Sharif is staging monthly car repair workshops exclusively for women with the goal of empowering them to be prepared for unexpected situations.
The first-of-its-kind sessions are being held in collaboration with instructors Mohab Sharaf Eldeen, who works in Formula One races, and Ali Almatooq, who is part of the team at the garage in Tubli, where the lessons are conducted.
Eman, who has completed a course in basic car repair, assists the duo.
The last event, which took place on April 17, brought together a bunch
of eager participants, who experienced a hands-on class, featuring
theoretical and practical knowledge, as well as interactive activities
and mini challenges. When it comes to automobiles, the balance tips in
favour of men, who seemingly dominate the industry. However, there is a
growing number of female motor heads, who are changing the narrative –
one gear at a time.
Among them is former banker Eman, who decided
quit her job to feed her hunger for adventure. The 39-year-old from
Riffa is the founder of Campfire Adventures, a platform that empowers
women to step out of their comfort zones through travel, challenges, and
meaningful experiences.
After 13 years crunching numbers, the
transition was far from easy. However, she decided to choose a path that
aligns with who she is.
“The main goal of our car repair workshop
is to raise awareness and build essential skills, empowering women to
rely on themselves with confidence,” Eman told GulfWeekly.
“No prior experience is needed – just come ready to learn and step out of your comfort zone,” she added.
Since
winning the title of UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development
Organisation) Rising Star in the Orange Economy at the Woman of the Year
Awards last December, the explorer has been focused on creating more
meaningful and impactful initiatives.
“I organised specialised
courses on survival skills, including how to navigate and survive in one
of the largest deserts in Saudi Arabia.
“I also supported an
inclusive awareness campaign for the deaf and hard-of-hearing during
Ramadan, using my platform to give a voice to communities that are often
overlooked,” she noted.
Eman contributed to promoting and raising
awareness through the National Volunteering Platform during the recent
conflict, encouraging both locals and residents to come together,
support Bahrain, and take part in community service during the uncertain
times.
Not one to rest on past laurels, the avid traveller, who has
visited more than 70 countries, revealed that there are several upcoming
projects, including volunteering trips and more skill-based workshops
for women.
“I always felt there was more I wanted to explore. My
journey began with a passion for adventure and volunteering, which
eventually grew into Campfire Adventures.
“Living off the land makes
you realise how little you actually need, and how strong you truly are.
It removes comfort and reveals your true self. This passion started
through travel and exposure to remote environments.
“Next, I’m
exploring more raw and extreme destinations that challenge both
physically and mentally, because that’s where real growth happens,” she
added.
For upcoming workshop details, follow @campfire.bh on Instagram.
