Shadya was born in 1929 in Cairo.

Her real name is Fatma Ahmed Kamal. Shadya's first screen appearance was in 1947 in the film “Mind on Vacation”.

Also in 1947, Shadya met Kamal al-Shenawi and they formed one of the most famous duets in Egyptian cinema, working together in about 25 movies.

The year 1952 was the most prosperous year in Shadya's career; she made 13 movies, and she also met Emad Hamdy in the film of "Train of Mercy". The two married during the shooting of the film "Stronger than Love" Alexandria in. They were divorced 3 years later.

In 1962 Shadya entered the world of cinema production with the film "The thief and the dogs".

In 1984 marked Shadya's last appearance on the silver screen in "Don't Ask me who I am" directed by Ashraf Fahmi.

In 1985, Shadya took part in her only stage play “Raya wa Sakina”, which was a great success.

Shadya's last appearance in 1986 when she sang “Khod bi Eidi”, which was a religious song. Shadya took part in 117 films, 10 radio series, and one stage play; she sang over 1500.