For Hana Al Khater, volleyball is more than just a sport – it is a symbol of unity and teamwork. On the court, individual boundaries fade away, and everyone becomes part of one shared game. This sense of connection ignited the passion of the young Qatari athlete, inspiring her to pursue her dream of becoming a volleyball player. Aparajita Mukherjee sat down with Al Khater to unravel her athlete and the individual.
BL: What life lesson has volleyball taught you?
Al Khater: Volleyball has taught me the importance of teamwork and communication. No matter how skilled a player is, success in volleyball depends on working cohesively as a team, trusting your teammates, and communicating effectively during high-pressure moments. It has also taught me resilience and adaptability. Sometimes the game doesn’t go as planned, but learning to stay composed, adapt strategies, and focus on the next play is crucial. I’ve also learned how to appreciate friendships within the volleyball team, my coaches, teammates, family, and even spectators all helped me learn to appreciate the little things in life.
BL: How has it been – being a Qatari athlete and a woman – on and off the field?
Al Khater: Being a Qatari athlete and a woman has been both empowering and challenging. On the field, I take pride in breaking barriers and representing my culture, while off the field, I’ve faced societal expectations which have pushed me to grow as a leader. This journey has taught me resilience and the importance of inspiring change, proving that passion and determination can overcome any boundary.
BL: In hindsight, what would you choose to re-do (if given an option)?
Al Khater: If given the chance, I would focus more on embracing opportunities and getting outside my comfort zone earlier. Looking back, there were moments where hesitation held me back from taking on challenges that could have further shaped me. While I’ve learned from these experiences, I now realize the importance of taking risks and fully committing to every opportunity that comes my way.
BL: Where do you see yourself 3 years down the line?
Al Khater: Three years from now, I see myself pursuing a degree in a science based major, building on my passion for investigation and problem-solving. I aim to be actively involved in hands-on research, honing my skills in analyzing evidence and contributing to impactful projects. Beyond academics, I hope to continue inspiring others by advocating for women in STEM and sports, showing that determination can lead to breaking barriers in any field as long as you push yourself.
- What needs to change in the field of sports (and more so, a woman sports person) to encourage more women athletes to join?
To encourage more women to join sports, I feel we need greater visibility, equal opportunities, and cultural support. Increased media coverage of women’s sports can inspire the next generation by showcasing role models. Providing equal funding, resources, and facilities ensures that women athletes have the same opportunities to thrive as their male counterparts. Moreover, addressing societal stereotypes and fostering supportive environments both within families and communities can empower women to pursue sports confidently. By normalizing women in sports and celebrating their achievements, we can finally see more women in sports.
Short Takes
- Inspirational person: My mother is the most inspirational person in my life. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering support have shaped who I am today. Her belief in my abilities, even during moments of self-doubt, inspires me to push boundaries and strive for excellence in everything I do.
- Best advice received: Don’t be afraid to fail; failure is just a step toward growth. This taught me to see setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve, rather than as obstacles. It’s a mindset that has helped me stay resilient, embrace challenges, and keep moving forward, both in sports and in life.
- One childhood incident that you look back on with smiles: One childhood memory that always makes me smile is when my cousins, siblings, and I used to play ‘gaga ball’ outside. We’d laugh so loudly and run around the neighbourhood so much that the neighbours would often come out to complain, but we couldn’t stop! Those carefree moments of fun and connection are some of my happiest memories, and they remind me of the joy in simple things.
- Best comfort food: My ultimate comfort food is Molokhiya, a dish my mother often makes. It’s the one meal that never fails to warm me and make me feel like all the worries of the world disappear. There’s something so soothing about its rich flavours and the love that goes into making it. It’s like a hug in every bite.
- Best holiday destination: My best holiday destination is Germany. I feel a deep connection to nature there, and it’s where I have some family, which makes it even more special. The beauty of the landscapes and the peaceful atmosphere remind me of my childhood, bringing a sense of nostalgia and comfort whenever I visit.
