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In the male-dominated world of motors and engines, 30-year-old Merryhan Al-Baz has shattered stereotypes and achieved a historic milestone as the world’s first female crane driver in race competitions. Her remarkable journey from a young enthusiast to a recovery marshal at the Diriyah E-Prix 2022 reflects the changing landscape of opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia.Merryhan’s fascination with automobiles and mechanical systems ignited when she was just 13 years old. She credits her father, a devoted mechanic, for instilling in her a love for engines and the art of dismantling and reassembling cars. This shared passion not only nurtured her curiosity but also laid the foundation for her unconventional career path.Merryhan’s family played a pivotal role in fostering her passion. In a society where the field of mechanics is predominantly male, her parents stood by her side, encouraging her talents and dreams. She describes her upbringing as a supportive environment where gender boundaries were challenged and her interests nurtured.”My father loves mechanics; he has old cars that he tries to repair and put back into operation, and I was the only person that sat next to him to watch how he does it,” Merryhan shares with pride.Her journey into the world of mechanics was a self-driven endeavor, guided by her determination to break gender stereotypes and follow her heart’s calling. Despite her educational background in psychology and media, Merryhan was unwavering in her pursuit of a career in the automotive industry.
Her passion and expertise set her apart from conventional career paths.Growing up, Merryhan seized every opportunity to immerse herself in the world of automobiles. She attended car exhibitions and races, nurturing her profound love for cars, racing, and drifting. Her dedication to her craft continued to grow, and she embraced a future in the male-dominated domain of motorsports.The lifting of the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia in June 2018 marked a turning point for women’s participation in the automotive industry. It opened doors for women to become driving instructors, racing drivers, mechanics, and more. This transformative moment allowed Merryhan to realize her dream of becoming a mechanic.She reflects on the significance of these changes: “It’s such an amazing feeling to walk down the street and have people know who I am and greet me, encourage me and even learn from me.” In a society undergoing rapid transformation, Merryhan’s presence in the automotive world serves as an inspiration to others.At the Diriyah E-Prix 2022, Merryhan Al-Baz served as a recovery marshal, a role that demands precision and quick thinking. Recovery marshals are responsible for swiftly cleaning up the circuit after accidents to ensure the uninterrupted flow of races.
This position is considered particularly challenging for women, but Merryhan’s capabilities on the ground earned her a spot on the recovery marshal team.As a crane driver, Merryhan’s primary responsibility was to lift and remove cars involved in accidents, allowing the race to resume promptly. The urgency of her role is evident, as any delay caused by accidents directly impacts the flow of the race and the competitors’ performance. Her ability to operate heavy machinery with skill and efficiency contributed to the seamless execution of the event.Merryhan’s journey into the automotive world is remarkable given her educational background, which diverged from her career path. Her study of psychology and media in Lebanon did not deter her from pursuing her true calling. She recognized her affinity for the world of cars and embarked on a path of self-improvement and learning.To further her career in a more formal capacity, Merryhan enrolled in an institute in Jeddah, where she obtained a certificate in automotive mechanics. Her reputation as a self-taught mechanic paved the way for her to become an instructor, an achievement she cherishes.
Looking ahead, she aspires to open her own automobile repair shop, solidifying her place in the world of mechanics.Merryhan Al-Baz’s journey exemplifies the changing landscape of opportunities for women in Saudi Arabia, particularly in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her determination, passion, and expertise have broken down barriers and inspired others to challenge stereotypes. As Saudi Arabia continues to embrace gender equality and women’s empowerment, Merryhan’s story serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the boundless potential of Saudi women in diverse careers.
