Amplifying the voices of young Bedouin Lebanese women through photovoice

Lead researcher: Nagham Khalil

Co-researchers: Fatima Abu Eid – Inas Abu Eid – Israa Nazzal – Mariam Hamad – Shaymaa Abu Eid –Zahraa Abu Eid

Introduction

This research explores the identity of young Bedouin women in the Bekaa region of Lebanon, a historically, politically, and socially marginalized group. The dominant narrative surrounding the Bedouin community often portrays them as relics of the past – people with limited opportunities, confined by rigid traditions, and incapable of integrating into “modern” society. These stereotypes obscure the realities of young Bedouin women who, despite never having experienced a nomadic lifestyle, hold a strong sense of pride in their identity while navigating complex sociopolitical and cultural shifts.

To capture the intricacies of identity formation in this context, I adopted photovoice, a participatory methodology that allows participants to document and narrate their lived experiences through photography. This approach ensures that their perspectives are centered in the study. It also positions them as co-researchers rather than passive subjects. The research is framed within an intersectionality framework, acknowledging the interplay of various social identities and power structures that shape these women’s experiences.

This photovoice project aims to challenge dominant misconceptions by focusing our lens on the voices of Bedouin women and exploring how they define and express their identity within Lebanese society. Ultimately, this work aspires to amplify their voices, inform policy changes, and inspire further research that accurately represents Bedouin women’s lived realities.

The lead researcher selected one photo and story from each participant to feature in this blog.

Fatima Abu Eid:

Inas Abu Eid:

Israa Nazzal:

Mariam Hamad:

“In my way of thinking and personal taste, I have a deep love for my old traditions rather than modern advancements. For example, while there are many types of bakeries today, as a Bedouin girl, I prefer the bread we make in our own traditional way. There is something special about the fire touching the saj, creating the most delicious, golden loaf—shining like the sun.“

Shaymaa Abu Eid:

Zahraa Abu Eid:

About the researcher:

Nagham’s interest in photovoice began while earning a master’s degree in Rural Community Development at the American University of Beirut. As part of her thesis, she developed a photovoice guideline tailored to the Bedouin community, using it as a case study. She later interned with Photovoice Worldwide and attended its summer school, where she developed a detailed photovoice project proposal for young Bedouin women in Lebanon.

Nagham was later awarded a grant from Ettijahat – Independent Culture, allowing her to lead her first photovoice project on the cultural identity of young Bedouin women. She will publish an article on this project soon. This sample of photos and captions is Part I of the article, while the second part, covering the findings and conclusions, will be published soon. Nagham is currently preparing an exhibition with the co-researchers this year. In addition to her research, Nagham joined Photovoice Worldwide as a coordinator earlier this year.

To know more about the project, reach out to Nagham through Instagram, LinkedIn, or email her at: nagham@pvww.org