Shaarawy’s actions pushed renowned writer and feminist Doria Shafik, dubbed Bint Al Nil (Daughter of the Nile) along with fellow feminists, to storm the parliament in 1951 to demand women’s rights. Consequently, Rawya Atteya became the first Arab woman in the parliament in 1957. Shafik and Atteya, much like many other women of their age, would have never been able to dream of becoming engaged in the political sphere, let alone becoming some of its most prominent figures, if it weren’t for the stroke of confidence the feminist movement gave them.

Now, little girls can dream of becoming the next president.

Editor’s Note: Read how Shaarawy and her colleagues’ actions made it possible for women to join the parliament and get involved in public life: “Carving a Place in Society.”