Takreem Foundation gala honors Arab cultural luminaries
DUBAI: Bahrain's Sheikha Mai Al-Khalifa and Lebanese advertising mogul Pierre Choueiri were among those honored by the Takreem Foundation last week at a gala dedicated to celebrating Arab excellence on a global stage.
Emirati writer, art expert and philanthropist Sultan Sooud Al-Qassemi was also among the prominent figures honored for their significant contributions to the region's cultural landscape.
Sheikha Mai, a Bahraini politician and passionate advocate for heritage preservation, received a lifetime achievement award for her commitment to safeguarding and promoting Arab culture and consistently championing the importance of preserving historical sites.
As president of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, she has spearheaded numerous initiatives dedicated to restoring and revitalizing the country's rich heritage. Her close collaboration with UNESCO, particularly in her role as chair of the Arab Regional Center for World Heritage, further underscores her dedication to protecting and promoting Arab cultural heritage on a global scale.
Her award recognizes her enduring impact on cultural preservation efforts within Bahrain and across the Arab world.
Choueiri, chairman and CEO of the Choueiri Group, a leading media company in the region, received a special distinction for his contributions to the cultural landscape. While not explicitly a cultural figure himself, Choueiri's recognition is tied to his support of Al-Multaqa Literary Salon.
Al-Multaqa, also honored at the event, is a renowned platform for intellectual exchange centered around Arabic literature, philosophy, and art. Founded in 1998 by Asma Seddiq Al-Mutawa, who accepted the award on behalf of the platform, it has gained recognition for its vibrant discussions, particularly those revolving around Arabic novels.
Recognized by UNESCO, the salon has played a vital role in fostering a vibrant reading culture, supporting emerging writers, and promoting intellectual discourse throughout the Arab world.
The Takreem Foundation's decision to honor both Sheikha Mai and Choueiri reflects the organization's holistic view of cultural impact. It recognizes not only those directly involved in cultural creation and preservation but also those who provide crucial support and platforms for cultural exchange.
Established in 2010, Takreem continues to highlight the achievements of Arabs across various fields, holding its awards ceremonies in major cities throughout the region and beyond. Through these events and fundraising galas, the foundation aims to inspire future generations and foster a greater appreciation for Arab contributions to the world.
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