Overcoming adversity is something that Walaa “Lula” El Sayed, 38, has done her whole life. Perseverance is in her DNA.
Born and raised in Egypt, her life perspective differs from most. Parents El Sayed and Soad saw potential in all four of their children at an early age. As the oldest sibling, from as far back as she can remember, art has been a huge part of Lula’s life. She can vividly remember drawing and painting pyramids for hours as a child. Eventually, she would earn a master’s degree from the College of Fine Arts in Cairo.
Lula believes everyone endures hardships at some point in their lives. For her, losing her father is easily at the top of that list.
“He was my everything. In my culture, the father takes the leadership role and pretty much handles everything. My dad gave me confidence when I lacked it. He was simply the best dad in the world,” she said.
Lula knew it wouldn’t be easy, but if she was going to reach her full potential, departing from her native country was the first step. Before leaving everything that she loved behind to come to America, Lula had numerous honest, heartfelt conversations with family and friends.
“Growing up in Egypt was very nice. As I’ve gotten older, my appreciation for the culture has grown. I have always been independent,” she said. “My family knew that while I was proud of the traditions, I was not a big fan of society’s rules.”
Watching American movies starring Julia Roberts shaped Lula’s experience of what the United States was like. Once she arrived in Roanoke, she soon realized that those movies did not mirror the actual reality.
“Not all, but some of my preconceived notions were reinforced. So many Americans take things for granted. I’m talking simple things that people in other countries would die for,” she said. “The irony is many Americans have misconceptions about Muslims.”
For three years, Lula worked as an Instructional Assistant at Highland Park, West Salem Elementary, R.A.M.S. and the Salem Montessori School. “I was overqualified to be an I.A. but did so anyway because my teaching experience and credentials in Egypt didn’t matter that much to employers who interviewed me,” she said. “I wasn’t happy about it, but knew that if I stayed the course, everything would work itself out.”
It didn’t take long for Lula to start making friends. Nathan Auldridge and many others have helped make Roanoke feel like home to her. After receiving her permanent residency, Lula applied for her passport. She plans on visiting Egypt in the coming years.
Earlier this month, Franklin County Public Schools offered Lula a full-time art teaching position. Overwhelmed with joy, she instantly accepted.
Often, Lula finds herself reflecting on her life journey that got her to this point.
“My life certainly hasn’t been easy, but I am still here. And stronger than ever. So many people have assisted me over the years. I am super excited about this next life chapter that I am about to embark on, both personally and professionally,” she said.
