Marwa Hassan facts for kids

Marwa Hassan (Arabic: مروة حسن) is an amazing Egyptian runner. She became famous for her incredible journey from selling tissues on the street to becoming a professional athlete. Her story shows how determination can help you overcome big challenges.

Marwa Hassan's Inspiring Journey

Her Early Life and Big Dreams

Marwa Hassan was born in 2004 in Khor el-Mahmoudia, a place near Aswan, Egypt. When she was a child, life was very tough for her. She couldn't go to school and had to sell tissue packs on the street to help her family. She didn't know how to read or write. She also didn't have a cell phone or even extra clothes.

The Race That Changed Everything

In February 2018, when Marwa was 13 years old, she saw a big crowd. She learned it was a running race for the Aswan Heart Centre. There were races for adults, like a marathon and a half marathon. But there was also a special 1-kilometre race just for kids.

Even though Marwa didn't have proper running clothes or shoes, she really wanted to join. The people organizing the race were kind. They let her run for free, even though she was barefoot and wearing a long robe. To everyone's surprise, Marwa won the children's race! She received a medal, a bottle of cooking oil, and a fun boat trip on the Nile River with lunch.

Becoming a Recognized Athlete

After her win, Marwa became well-known. Important people noticed her, like the British ambassador and the Egyptian Olympic Committee. She was even invited to join the Egyptian Athletic Federation and a sports club called Tala'ea El Gaish SC.

However, life still had its difficulties. Her father worked jobs that didn't pay much, so Marwa had to go back to selling tissues for a while. Her athletic training also stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, her family lost their home in a flood.

Marwa's Continued Success

Despite these challenges, Marwa kept pushing forward. She became the first person in her family to attend school. In early 2022, she competed in her first race as a professional runner. She was sponsored by Tala'ea El Gaish SC and won first place again! By 2023, Marwa was focused on her schoolwork. She had a new dream: to become a veterinarian, someone who helps animals. Her story is a great example of strength and hope.