Sara Sabry talks future endeavors and outcome of high-level meetings with government officials

By Edward Shain 

Sara Sabry, the first Egyptian, Arab and African astronaut, recently shared her ambitious future plans in the space industry following her landmark mission in August. In high-level meetings with government officials, such as Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Hala Al-Saeed and the CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency, Dr. Sherif Sedky, Sara discussed her experience of space travel, how she can help make a difference in Egypt, and her work with Deep Space Initiative, a non-profit organization focused on providing research opportunities, educational lectures, and podcasts to people interested in the space field. Her future endeavors include collaborating with governmental entities to develop Egypt’s stance on the international space map.

Dr. Hala Al-Saeed, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, praised Sara’s achievements, saying “I had an exceptional meeting with Egypt’s first astronaut, Sara Sabry at my office. We spoke about her aspirations to give back to Egypt, through bringing her expertise to the community, and how Egypt is ready to support in every possible way. In an unprecedented moment in history, Sara made Egyptians proud. Currently working and studying, she has a purpose-driven mission to bring space closer to the world, and Egypt. Big dreams inspire big changes. Thanks to all Egyptian youngsters who continue to make change, every day.”

During a roundtable discussion, Sara Sabry said “In September 2022, I became eligible to conduct space research. I am also enrolled in advanced training as an astronaut in accordance with NASA standards and currently working with several governmental entities to support Egypt’s space industry.”

“I have founded Deep Space Initiative, a non-profit company that aims to increase accessibility and opportunity in the space field while enabling deep space exploration for all Humankind. DSI is the first initiative of its kind in Egypt that specializes in space, our mission is to help erase the borders on the map by providing research opportunities, as well as educational lectures and podcasts that are open to all audiences, no matter their nationality or resources.”

Sabry said that she wants her years-long research to be available for those looking to enter the field, “I fully believe in the importance of data availability to every hardworking person in the world.”

Dr. Sherif Sedky gave an overview of Egypt’s space program and the country’s plans to localize the space technology industry in support of Egypt Vision 2030. There were also discussions on how Sara can aid the government in achieving their goals. It is important to note that Egypt has established its own space agency, becoming one of the 72 agencies worldwide, which is an economic body overseen by the Egyptian Presidency.