Seven years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting and photographing Tima Shomali. Our conversation revolved around the landscape of filmmaking and the necessity for more Arab voices to be represented. Fast forward a few years, I witnessed the impact of Netflix’s Alrawabi show, season 1, as my teenage daughters expressed feeling seen. However, alongside this visibility came backlash from elders who preferred to sweep provoking topics under the rug. Now, with season 2, Tima delves even deeper, confronting themes that stir discomfort but demand attention. She goes beyond the surface of typical high school life and social media obsession, shedding light on issues often avoided but crucial for both younger and older generations. Having been on set last year, watching the show now evokes even stronger emotions within me. I felt choked up and teary-eyed at many moments. The script is powerful, the music stirring, the framing just perfect, and the colors and sets stunning. Tima’s dedication and energy are palpable, and I know many share my respect and appreciation for her work. Thank you for including me among a team of avid and inspiring creatives. I remain inspired and eagerly anticipate what she’ll bring forth next. Huge thank you to @isshomali@shirin_kamal @lina.khalidsr for making me feel at home in Amman and on set.
If you’ve not watched the show already, please do!
