SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
In the world of figure skating, an incredibly demanding sport that traditionally offers few role models for Muslim women, Zahra Lari shatters all stereotypes.
She is not only the first Emirati figure skater to compete internationally, but also a fighter who skillfully balances the demands of elite sports with motherhood, against all odds.
Lari's passion for figure skating was ignited after watching the movie "Ice Princess", and particularly how the sport featured a seamless blend of art and athleticism.
Her path was filled with challenges, though. In her early days, she could only practise at local ice rinks, which offered her limited ice time and prevented her from performing advanced tricks due to crowdedness and lack of free space.
She also faced international barriers and stereotypes associated with skating in a hijab, all of which she confronted head-on, thanks to her ambitious and fearless nature.
"It was very hard. My life was training. I would wake up at 4:30am and not be back home until 9pm. My life was on ice and I loved it! Any free time I had I would spend it with friends and family," she told Aletihad.
Lari's motivation to push through was also fuelled by the support of her family, which helped her persevere despite feeling tired, sore, or overwhelmed due to intense training and having to balance it with her personal life. "Without my family and country's support, I would not be able to reach my goals. My family had to sacrifice a lot for me to build my career and get the best training possible. They even opened up their own club, Emirates Skating Club, in order for me to get the best training," Lari said.
Lari's experience is shaped by her participation in international competitions, which taught her strength "through unforgettable people, emotions, and nerves".
Among many notable achievements, the Emirati figure skater speaks very highly of the Asian Winter Games in Japan (2017) and the Winter Universiade in Russia (2019). "I loved the atmosphere of these two competitions, seeing the high-level skaters and learning from them," she recounted. The team around you is very important, as it can "either make you or break you", as she put it.
In her case, the team is what made her stronger. "I have the best team and people surrounding me; they help me learn every day and overcome the obstacles I face," Lari said.
"Every coach I had during my career has left a mark on me. I learnt something from all of them and I am truly grateful," she added.
Her unwavering spirit, ability to turn pressure into opportunity, and belief that no dream is out of reach have deeply resonated with many young Emirati athletes, who now look up to Lari as a leader in the sport.
"It makes me proud to have many look up to me, but at the same time, it is a lot of pressure. I always want to be perfect, and that is not possible. I still have my good days and bad days, and I try to focus on that with the young generation. You can have some difficult days, but they will pass," she admitted.
As she prepares for major competitions, Lari maintains consistency in her approach, noting: "I prepared for every competition the same way. Whether it was a small event or a big one, my presentation was the same, my motivation was the same, and my hard work was the same."
Looking forward, Lari strives to ignite passion for the next generation of skaters and help them succeed in global competitions and events. Another big goal of hers is to represent the UAE at the Winter Olympics.
Speaking about Emirati women, she said: "I would like to tell all Emirati women out there that I am proud of you. I am proud of the mothers, business owners, athletes, entrepreneurs, and others because women are making an impact in every field today. I am proud to be part of this change. You can do it, and you will."