Eng. Sara Sabry
Astronaut, CEO & Founder, Deep Space Initiative
Sara Sabry is an astronaut, activist, and advocate for change. As the first Egyptian astronaut, the first Arab woman in space, and the first woman from the African continent to go to space, Sabry has made history with her contributions to space exploration.
Sabry founded and serves as Executive Director of Deep Space Initiative (DSI), a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing accessibility and opportunity in the space field while enabling deep space exploration for all. Her leadership has enabled DSI to provide opportunities in research and education that are open to all audiences, regardless of nationality or resources.
Sara Sabry is a Mechanical and Biomedical Engineer currently pursuing her PhD in Aerospace Sciences, where she conducts research at the NASA-funded UND Humanspaceflight lab. Her contributions to the space field are complemented by expertise in Mechatronics, Robotic Surgery, Stem Cell Development, Augmented Reality, Formula 3 Car design, and Bioastronautics. Additionally, during her studies, Sabry dedicated four years to working as a yoga instructor and CrossFit coach, showcasing her commitment to health and wellness alongside her academic pursuits.
Sabry, an acclaimed international speaker, is dedicated to amplifying the representation of Egyptians, Africans, and Arabs on global platforms. Through the lens of her remarkable journey to space, she inspires audiences to conquer life's challenges and to look beyond borders. Sabry shares insights on transitioning from engineering to entrepreneurship, recounts her journey to space and the Overview Effect, and emphasizes the pivotal role of space tech in addressing urgent climate issues on Earth. A dedicated advocate for equality and human rights, Sara Sabry champions inclusivity on the global stage. Her humanitarian efforts focus on addressing human rights issues and empowering marginalized communities.
While she advocates on international platforms, Sabry is equally committed to making a direct impact at the grassroots level. She has volunteered across Africa, contributing to a women’s empowerment center in Uganda, teaching in South Africa, and engaging in marine conservation in Madagascar. These on-the-ground experiences have further solidified her dedication to humanitarian causes and social justice.