Sarah Abood

Sarah Abood came up with the idea for her business, Thawrih – “revolutionary” in Arabic – while working as a personal trainer in Ottawa. One of her clients had opted out of working out in a gym because she couldn’t find a comfortable hijab. Abood launched Thawrih in October 2017, a work-out gear company offering hijabs, turbans, and other gym clothes catered to Muslims and Sikhs. The active wear products are now available in an estimated 23 countries around the world. Through her clothing line, Abood has been providing employment opportunities for Syrian newcomers who help create her brand’s workout apparel. She has also partnered with law enforcement agencies to develop a hijab that’s safe for first responders.