the journal: a retreat testimonial from rania malek

Hello there soul sister,

I recently was interviewed by OkayAfrica and in doing that I reached out to some past attendees to get their take on their experience at Out of Office Creative Retreats. Rania Malek, a co-creator from Vol. 1 & Vol. 2, was so kind to give us a testimonial of her experience. Here is a first hand account or her experience.

how did you first hear about the retreat? what made you want to join?

I first heard about the retreat through my best friend, who had been nurturing this idea for a long time. Watching her bring it to life, step by step, only deepened my desire to be part of it—not just as a participant, but as a co-creator. I truly believe this retreat is something we all crave deep down, and she built it for all of us.

what were your expectations before vs. what did you take away from it afterward?

This experience exceeded my expectations. Knowing Sally, I had no doubt it would be beautifully curated, but what made it truly extraordinary was meeting all these incredible women from around the world. The retreat always comes at a time when my soul needs it the most. When it ends, I always leave with a heavy heart—like stepping out of a utopian bubble back into reality. It’s a space that offers something rare: deep connection, self-reflection, and a reminder of what truly matters.

what were your favorite moments?

My favorite moments vary between editions. In the first retreat, I’ll never forget sharing my fear during the opening circle talk—just five minutes in. The comfort I felt in that moment set the tone for the entire experience. It showed me how safe and supported we all were.

why do you choose to come back?

I choose to come back because, just like when you’re sick and go to the doctor, when you’re emotionally exhausted, you need a space to recharge. The retreat allows me to heal from the fatigue of daily life—the physical, emotional, and mental weight we carry. It gives me a sense of security that can sometimes feel lost in the "real world," especially as a woman.

what about it being an all-women retreat makes it special? Is it important that it's all women?

The fact that it's an all-women retreat is life-changing. It’s the most beautiful and necessary aspect of it. I recently wrote a poem that reflects what this space means to me:

"Here, we do not ask if it is safe to be soft.

We call each other sister, not by blood,

but by the silent understanding of what it means
to be a woman in a world that hardens us."

In today’s world, women have more responsibilities than ever—we work harder, carry more, and often don’t have time to simply be with each other. We are losing that sense of sacred gathering. This retreat allows us to reclaim it, to be fully present, and to nurture ourselves in a way that is often forgotten in our everyday lives.

reflections:

Reading testimonials reminds me why I hold these spaces. Each retreat is crafted to slow down, connect and create. Its a space which fosters creativity, connection, and provides a safe circle of belonging. It’s a space where so many of us creatives long for, and so, I am building this for you!

Blessings, light, and love,

Your friend Sally