Nour had built a steady life in Canada: classrooms, labs, research, and teaching. That all changed with a car accident, leading to an unexpected return home to Saudi Arabia.
What was supposed to be a temporary stay turned permanent. She resumed her work as a lecturer at King Faisal University, but her perspective had shifted.
During a summer workshop with high school students, Nour began to reflect more deeply on inclusion and access, especially inspired by a close friend with Down syndrome. That experience led her to start 21 Verse, a digital platform offering therapy and community support for individuals with Down syndrome. It was never about launching a business. It was about creating something meaningful with compassion and purpose.
As the platform evolved, Nour joined Tamakani, PepsiCo’s Proudly Saudi initiative, supporting women's leadership.
Through Tamakani, Nour found a network of mentors who helped her refine her vision, and step more confidently in her role as an entrepreneur.
“They don’t dictate your story,” she says. “They help you find your own.”
Today, Nour leads the Health Innovation and Biotechnology Center at King Faisal University, while continuing to build 21 Verse. Her work combines science and social impact, supporting families, improving access, and creating new possibilities for people with disabilities.
“We’re living through real change,” she says. “What women are achieving today would have seemed impossible just a few decades ago. One day, people will look back and ask what made it happen. The answer is what we’re witnessing now – Vision2030 in action.”
Nour’s journey is part of a broader of movement of Saudi women who are turning ideas into impact, supported by platforms like PepsiCo’s Tamakani.