From childhood, Amal  AlBinali has dreamt of becoming an astronaut and has questioned how things work. This passion grew as she followed a path of scientific studies through high school and was offered the opportunity to become a member of the schools’ astronomy committee, studying astronomy at the Youth Innovation Centre (Formerly known as Children and Youth Science Centre). She continued to pursue her studies majoring in chemistry with a minor in computer science and a bachelor’s degree with excellence from the University of Bahrain and achieving Jaber Bin Hayan’s prize for being the best graduate within the Chemistry Graduates batch.  Amal went on to study at Strathclyde University, attaining a master’s degree in business administration (MBA).

In parallel to studying for her master’s degree, Amal worked as an astronomy teacher and then as the Scientific Exhibition Hall Supervisor in the same Center for a further 5 years, where she taught astronomy and explained various scientific experimentations and applications to school students during their Centre visit. She also trained as a chemist in the Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife, and subsequently worked as a chemistry lab technician in the chemistry department at the University of Bahrain giving her the opportunity to teach and supervise students’ experimentation.

Amal has made many contributions in the scientific fields and represented the Kingdom of Bahrain at several international events.  In 2003 she submitted an invention at the “Ninth International EXPO – Science” in Russia and achieved the award for one of the best four innovations within the whole exhibition, proudly securing the Bahraini delegation the first prize, drawn from some 89 countries.  She also contributed to shaping the “Strategy for youth in the Gulf region and how they can benefit from the spare time” by representing Kingdom of Bahrain females in science fields from 2005-2007.  Additionally, she Chaired a jury panel at one of the contests held during the ‘Youthful Festival’ in the Kingdom of Bahrain in 2018.

Amal is currently working as the Chief of Strategic Planning and Projects Management Department in the National Space Science Agency (NSSA).  She has undertaken many training courses in the space science and technology field and believes that her opportunity to attend International Space Camp will further develop her skills and help her to  inspire students during her school visits, encouraging the pursuit of STEM studies.  These activities are in line with one of the main strategic goals of NSSA, which is to promote space science through awareness, developing advanced research programs and enhancing innovation.