Beyond the Sword: How QF is creating new pathways for girls through fencing
<p>Doha, Qatar: More than 100 young fencers will come together at Education City Stadium for Qatar Foundation’s ‘Touché: International Fencing Day 2026’, with Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad joining them as they put their training into practice. Among them will be a new generation of fencers participating in Qatar Foundation’s Creating Pathways Program.</p> <p>For Maryam Al Badi, a stage…
In Qatar, Qatar Foundation is launching an initiative to encourage more girls to take up fencing through its Creating Pathways Program. The program, which targets young fencers, is set to introduce over 100 female fencers to the sport at Qatar Foundation's 'Touché: International Fencing Day 2026' event at Education City Stadium.
Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad will join the young fencers as they practice their skills. For Maryam Al Badi, a student at Academyati, a Qatar Foundation Pre-University Education school, her introduction to fencing came through a movie, where the sword captured her attention. Initially intimidated by the weight of the sword, Maryam's quick reflexes and coordination soon turned fencing into a natural talent, teaching her that strategy is just as important as strength and speed.
Al Badi still feels nervous before a bout, but fencing has taught her to move past that fear. She emphasizes that fencing is not only about physical prowess, but also about developing strategic thinking and resilience. Maryam’s enthusiasm for the sport has sparked curiosity among her friends, who now ask questions about fencing and are encouraged to give it a try.
For Maryam Khalid Al Awadi, a student at Tariq Bin Ziad School, fencing began after witnessing other girls engaging in the sport. Her initial fear gave way to gradual improvement, making her more courageous and confident. Al Awadi, a budding writer, aspires to write about fencing and become a champion in the sport.
The Al Awadi sisters, Al Hanouf and Maryam, also practice fencing together, with their father passing on his passion for the sport. They face skepticism about fencing being a male-dominated sport but are adamant about girls' right to learn and defend themselves through fencing. Ibtihaj Muhammad inspires the sisters, who dream of emulating her strength and bravery.
QF Health & Sports Affairs Specialist Ghoroor Ahmed, a former fencer, oversees the Creating Pathways Program, focusing on identifying and nurturing talent in female fencers. The program currently trains around 30 girls.
Written by urgent.news from The Peninsula Qatar's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
