About this item
Growing up in New Jersey as the only African American Muslim at school, Ibtihaj Muhammad always had to find her own way. When she discovered fencing, a sport traditionally reserved for the wealthy, she had to defy expectations and make a place for herself in a sport she grew to love. . From winning state championships to three-time All-America selections at Duke University, Ibtihaj was poised for success, but the fencing community wasnt ready to welcome her with open arms just yet. As the only woman of color and the only religious minority on Team USAs saber fencing squad, Ibtihaj had to chart her own path to success and Olympic glory. . Proud is a moving coming-of-age story from one of the nations most influential athletes and illustrates how she rose above it all.
About the Author
Ibtihaj Muhammad, an American sabre fencer, is a 2016 Olympic medalist, 5-time Senior World medalist and World Champion in the sport of fencing. In August 2016, she became the first American woman to compete in the Olympics in hijab and is also the first Muslim woman to win an Olympic medal for the United States. Ibtihaj is a 3-time All American from Duke University, with a dual degree in International Relations and African Studies. In 2014, Ibtihaj launched her own clothing company, Louella, which aims to bring affordable modest fashion to the United States market. This summer, Mattel released their first hijabi Barbie doll, modeled in Ibtihaj's likeness, as part of Barbie's "Shero" line of dolls. Ibtihaj's memoir, PROUD: My Fight for an Unlikely American Dream is available for purchase in both adult and young readers edition.Ibtihaj is a sports ambassador with the U.S. Department of State's Empowering Women and Girls through Sport Initiative, and works closely with organizations like Athletes for Impact and the Special Olympics. Named to Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential list, Ibtihaj is an important figure in a larger global discussion on equality and the importance of sport. Her voice continues to unite both the sports and non-sports world.
