I have been asked to share my story. I am Fatma, an 18 years old girl living in France. Therefore, I apologize in advance for the eventual English mistakes lol.
I always wanted to wear Hijab. My father is a great man, he is the greatest. He didn’t want me to wear it only because all my cousins were wearing it. He always told me to think about the true meaning of Hijab, and then wear it.

I have been blessed with the decision of wearing it at the age of 16. My mom is a revert, she doesn’t wear it. My sister doesn’t neither. They always supported me though.

Here in France, Hijabis conditions is very particular. We can’t wear it in schools, and finding a job is almost impossible. In fact, many women have to remove it in order to earn money, or even to be present in their children’s school life. I remember when I still was in school, my  heart broke once a day : when I had to show my hair. I felt naked.

I now study journalism in Paris. I am the only Hijabi of my university. To have the same results as the others, I have to work two, three, four more times than them : finding internships with Hijab, or even asking people for an interview. Everything becomes more difficult. People don’t see you like a simple journalist student. They see you like THE Hijabi journalist student, you know. I have been told Islam would influence me in my articles. Well, it’s who I am. Islam is a part of me. It would be the same if I was Christian, Jewish or atheist. Everyone has an influence.
But Alhamdulillah (praise be to Allah), this only makes me stronger. I don’t feel different at all, even if I probably am, or at least people probably see me in a different way.
I feel French. A Muslim French, obviously, but still French though.

Many people tell me “Why don’t you go study in London? You will have much more opportunities there.”
My dream has always been to present the news. I basically have 1% of chance to succeed here. Yet I won’t give up. I used to think I would travel to UK eventually. But now I changed my mind. I don’t need to feel like I have to leave this country. This is MY country too. I WILL succeed here. Things have to change.

I want to thank the staff of World Hijab Day for all they do to spread awareness. A message to all girls out there, either Hijabi or not? Don’t put yourself limits. Be proud of who you are. Be strong, be confident, smile and keep your head up. Love yourself and the world will love you. We cover what’s ON our heads, not what’s IN our heads.

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