Filmmakers Julia Meltzer and Laura Nix profiled Houda al-Kabash and her Qur’an school for women and girls in Damascus, Syria, for the New York Times. Houda al-Habash, a conservative Muslim preacher, founded the Qur’an school 30 years ago. Every summer, her female students immerse themselves in a rigorous study of Islam. A surprising cultural shift is under way—women are claiming space within the mosque.
Shot right before the uprising in Syria erupted, The Light in Her Eyes offers an extraordinary portrait of a leader who challenges the women of her community to live according to Islam, without giving up their dreams. The video explores the differences between religious edicts and local culture and customs; immersion into the Qur’an enables girls to learn about their rights. Watch the full video below!