One thing about me is that I’m a sucker for stories with a good character arc.
I’ve read hundreds of books, devoured countless fanfics, webtoons, binged enough K-dramas, and played games at ungodly hours just to see a character go from a meek player to the hero of the story. There’s something oddly satisfying about watching a protagonist (any Wistoria fans here?) overcome impossible odds and finally step into their fullest potential.
Cosmopolitan Middle East’s summer issue is filled with women doing exactly that.
As I write this letter, I find myself asking a question that became the backbone of this issue: what does power actually look like?
Bringing this magazine to life, we had the privilege of talking with women from the Middle East and beyond to ask how they reclaim power on their own terms. We met with Dubai-based Filipina writer Eirinah, who learned to rebuild her confidence after epilepsy changed her relationship with writing, and Ameni Esseibi, who hopes to leave behind a fashion industry more inclusive than the one she entered. Within the pages (once you grab a hold of the mag obvi), you’ll also meet Myriam, a Lebanese content creator embracing self-love as she rebuilds her life, one step at a time.
I found myself in tears reading about their journeys. Not because they were perfect, but because they were honest. Every person we spoke to reminded me that power isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s choosing to keep going when life gives you every reason not to.
As a Filipino born and raised in the UAE, I’m filled with gratitude to have witnessed first-hand how the region – and the women within it – have continued to evolve, challenge expectations, and rewrite their stories. In a country home to more than 200 nationalities, growing up surrounded by queens from all walks of life has shaped my understanding of strength and resilience more than anything else (love you, mum).
In many ways, that’s also true of our cover star, the one and only Olivia Rodrigo. Appearing across 19 Cosmopolitan editions around the globe, she opens up about how she’s entering a new chapter in her life – one where she’s embracing her creative freedom and building a life where she’s calling the shots.
You’ll also find our first-ever COSMO POWER 30, celebrating the women shaping the Arab world. Across music, fashion, art, business and travel, they’re taking up space with intention, self-assured, ambitious and firmly in control of their own narratives.
To our dear Cosmopolitan readers, welcome to The Power Issue.