Industry Insights: Shereen Abdulhassan on Expanding Access, Empowering Communities, and Reaching New Summits

As Vice President of the Saudi Rowing Federation and a key figure in regional sports development, Shereen Abdulhassan has emerged as a driving force for inclusion, empowerment, and wellness in Saudi Arabia. From grassroots rowing programs to leading hiking expeditions, her efforts span sport, nature, and culture, all aligned with the transformative goals of Vision 2030.

In this Industry Insight interview, we speak with Shereen about expanding access to sports leadership, creating community through movement, and the importance of visible representation in shaping the Kingdom’s future.

As Vice President of the Saudi Rowing Federation, a member of the Saudi Women’s Rowing Committee, and part of the Asian Women & Youth Development Committee, I’m committed to expanding access to sports for women and youth in Saudi Arabia.

We’re creating opportunities through grassroots programs, school partnerships, making rowing more accessible and inspiring young girls to lead. We also mentor women in coaching and sports leadership to ensure their voices are heard.

Together, through national efforts and Vision 2030, we’re building a more inclusive and empowered future in sports.

What progress have you seen in terms of inclusion, opportunity, and policy?

There’s been tremendous progress in Saudi Arabia. Today, inclusion is no longer a concept, it’s becoming a reality. Policies now support the participation of women, youth, and men across a wide range of sports. We’re seeing expanded access to sports facilities, professional training, and competitive platforms. There’s also been a clear shift in public perception. Families and communities are embracing fitness and active living as part of a healthy lifestyle. The ecosystem is growing stronger, and most importantly, it’s becoming more diverse and more inclusive.

You founded Rawasi Hiking Team in 2017, which has since grown into a movement. What motivated you to start the group, and how does it empower Saudis to embrace outdoor wellness and community fitness?

Rawasi began in 2017 as a small group of women, mothers, daughters, friends, who wanted to reconnect with nature and with themselves through hiking. I created the team to empower women, show them that they can be strong, active, and adventurous, no matter their age or background. Over time, Rawasi evolved into a mixed team of men and women, with a continued majority of female members. What unites us is our shared love for movement, wellness, and the outdoors. It has become more than a team, it’s a community, like a family, where everyone supports each other on and off the trail.

Your work across sport, nature, and culture directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 focus on healthier lifestyles and empowered citizens. How do you see your impact shaping the future of wellness in the Kingdom, particularly for women and youth?

Vision 2030 inspired me to become an active force in creating a healthier, more empowered society. Through sport, adventure, and community engagement, I work to build a culture where wellness is accessible and encouraged, not just for women and youth, but for everyone. Whether it’s by leading initiatives like Rawasi, supporting athletes through the Federation, or mentoring future leaders, I hope to contribute to a more balanced, confident, and active Saudi Arabia. The future is about empowering individuals to live their healthiest lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities, and that includes all genders, all ages.

Congratulations on summiting Mount Toubkal! What did that personal achievement mean for you as a leader and role model?

Thank you! Toubkal wasn’t the only summit, I summited more than one summit, but Climbing Mount Toubkal not once, but twice was a personal and symbolic achievement. It reminded me that leadership is about perseverance, humility, and bringing others along on the journey. I celebrated one of my summits with some members of my team and that moment showed me the power of belief and community. Mountains test your limits, but they also show you what’s possible. For me, reaching the top wasn’t just about the view, it was about showing others, especially women, men, and young people, that they can reach their own “summits” in life, whatever they may be.

We were honoured to have you join us at last year’s Women in Fitness Forum at Riyadh Active Industry. In your view, what is the importance of facilitating these types of conversations at industry events?

Conversations like those at the Women in Fitness Forum are essential. They giv a platform to ideas, experiences, and solutions that can shape the future of the fitness industry. These events connect people, build networks, and encourage collaboration across sectors and genders. They also help create visibility for those who are working quietly but powerfully behind the scenes, especially women. I believe when we share knowledge and amplify diverse voices, we make space for meaningful progress, not only in fitness but in society as a whole.