Souhair Al Qaisi: Iraq’s Iconic Voice of Courage and Change

Souhair Al Qaisi has changed the face of Middle Eastern journalism. She has become a beacon of truth, courage, and humanity, known for her pioneering reporting and captivating presence on MBC, which goes beyond being a famous TV presenter; she is a voice for the voiceless. From daring reports in war zones to spearheading initiatives for displaced communities, Souhair’s career is a testament to the power of media to inspire change.

Souhair Al Qaisi was born in Baghdad in 1985. She began her career in broadcasting at 19 years of age when she started with Al Arabiya TV in 2004. Sharp journalistic instincts coupled with a drive for telling stories catapulted her into fame quickly. In 2008, she emerged as one of the top 10 Iraqi personalities for Fox News, because of her compelling coverage of the region’s most pressing political issues. In pioneering her first-of-its-kind Arabic-language show called Parliament Race, she helped pave the way for live elections debate shows that will shape future debates on the continent.

Souhair braved the most volatile points of Iraq during the darkest moment in the country’s recent history to report on the nation’s plight. Whether following displaced families or reporting from the front lines during wars, her work was more than mere storytelling; it became a lifeline for the victims she covered. While a United Nations celebrity partner, Souhair was at the forefront of visiting the besieged West Mosul battlefields against ISIS, adding the plight of those conflict-affected to the voice of the world.

Souhair has used her influence to good effect for humanitarian causes. She is also an advocate for war-affected women and children; through her work, she has made it possible for access to resources for these individuals. For these reasons, she was listed by Arabian Business magazine in 2017 as one of the most influential Arabs worldwide, marking her as a journalist but also a changemaker. In 2021, Souhair founded her production company, Quantum Star Productions, as a new milestone in her glorious career. By 2023, she launched the Souhair Show on MBC, which is the first international-standard entertainment talk show produced in Iraq. It features a wide range of Arab and international celebrities, thereby proving her versatility and influence in the media industry.

Souhair’s work did not go unnoticed. Amongst her accolades are the Middle East Excellence Award for Influential Media Leadership and being named an Icon of Iraqi Media. Additionally, she has inspired thousands through her TEDx talks and social media presence as she advocates for causes close to her heart, such as women’s empowerment and youth development.

Souhair’s career is a source of inspiration for aspiring journalists around the world. Her journey is an example of how media can transform society and its problems, bring people together, and empower the voiceless. Whether as a journalist, humanitarian, or media entrepreneur, Souhair Al Qaisi continues to leave her mark on the industry and the communities she serves.

Souhair Al Qaisi is much more than a journalist; she is a visionary reshaping the media landscape in the Middle East. Her fearless dedication to truth, combined with her humanitarian passion, makes her an icon of both media excellence and social impact. As she continues to push boundaries, her story remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.