Samar Dudin

Samar Dudin سمر دودين
Born	24 December 1967 (age 57) Amman, Jordan
Education	Santa Clara University, California (B.A. in Theatre Arts)
Occupation(s)	Educator, Theatre Artist, Community Organizer, Political Leader
Spouse	Saed Karajah
Father	Marwan Dudin

Samar Dudin (born 24 December 1967) is a Jordanian educator, theatre artist, community organizer, and political leader. She is the Regional Director and Head of Programs at Ruwwad Al Tanmeya, a community development organization that focuses on youth empowerment, education, and civic engagement. In February 2024, she was appointed as the first woman to serve as Secretary General of the Jordanian Social Democratic Party (JSDP). Dudin's career combines theatre education with political activism, contributing to both cultural and political sectors in Jordan.

Early life and education

Samar Dudin was born in 1967 in Amman, Jordan, to a Palestinian-Jordanian family. Her mother is from Gaza, and her father is from Hebron. She completed her secondary education in Jordan before pursuing higher education in the United States. Dudin obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from Santa Clara University in California. Her academic background in theatre has informed much of her subsequent work, particularly in the fields of youth engagement and community organizing.

Personal life

Samar Dudin is married to Sa’ed Karajah and has three daughters.

Career

Ruwwad Al Tanmeya

Samar Dudin in the Ruwwad HQ.

Samar Dudin is the Regional Director and Head of Programs at Ruwwad Al Tanmeya, a Jordan-based non-governmental organization focused on education, youth empowerment, and community support. Under her leadership, Ruwwad has developed several initiatives, including the "6 Minutes Safe Homes" campaign, which empowers communities to address child safety through creative learning. These efforts emphasize the use of the arts as tools for personal and community development.

Theatre and Education

Dudin is considered a pioneer in theatre education in Jordan, having directed and co-authored more than 17 plays that focus on youth and children’s issues. Her participatory methodologies foster co-authorship and creative collaboration, using theatre as a medium to challenge social norms and advocate for justice. Her work has significantly impacted education reform, creating opportunities for Jordanian youth to express themselves through the arts.

Political Career: Secretary General of the Jordanian Social Democratic Party

Samar Dudin attending one of JSDP events.

In February 2024, Samar Dudin was appointed Secretary General of the Jordanian Social Democratic Party (JSDP). She is the first woman to hold this position in the party’s history. Her tenure is focused on advocating for democratic reforms, social justice, and increased participation of youth and women in Jordan’s political processes. Her leadership within the party emphasizes addressing economic inequality, advancing women's rights, and expanding civil liberties.

Leadership and advocacy vision

Dudin’s vision centers around creating an inclusive society where youth, women, and marginalized communities are actively engaged in shaping the country’s future. Her approach to leadership reflects a commitment to social justice, often merging educational reform with cultural activism. Through Ruwwad and her work in the Jordanian Social Democratic Party, she has helped empower countless individuals to challenge societal norms and advocate for change.