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SGWCA's 7th edition announces cultural personality

SGWCA's 7th edition announces cultural personality

Sharjah 2416-04-2025
Recognition of exceptional cultural contributions
Salha Ghabish, Cultural Adviser and Head of the Cultural Office at the Council, stated, 'This honour has been introduced within the award in recognition of the efforts of women who have made exceptional cultural contributions that enriched their experience. These women have demonstrated experience and excellence in intellectual and professional fields recognised in Gulf and Arab cultural circles, have engaged with cultural institutions worldwide, and have helped promote Arab and Gulf culture through their creative output.'
Honouring Dr Saeeda Al Farsi
She added, "Dr Saeeda bint Khatir bin Hassan Al Farsi, from the sisterly Sultanate of Oman, has been selected to be honoured on 30 April, during the ceremony for awarding the winners." She is considered one of the influential figures in Omani and Gulf society, with literary and poetic publications, numerous critical studies, and contributions to editorial boards of several journals. She has participated in various literary evenings, seminars, lectures, and guidance camps locally, regionally, and internationally, as well as in several literary conferences and festivals. She also established her own cultural salon that welcomes intellectuals, creatives, and cultural figures from the Gulf and the Arab world.'
Academic background and leadership roles
Al Farsi holds a bachelor's degree in Arabic language and Islamic Sharia and a diploma in education from Kuwait University (1977), a master's degree in Arabic language specialising in criticism, rhetoric, and comparative literature from Cairo University (Faculty of Dar Al Uloom) (1994), and a PhD in criticism and rhetoric from the same faculty (2002). She has held several prominent positions, including being a member of the State Council in 2012, chairperson of the Omani Society for Writers and Literati from 2010 to 2012, and head of cultural activities at Muscat College of Science and Technology from 1996 to 1999.
Dr Al Farsi's reflections on the honour
Commenting on winning the award, Al Farsi said, 'When we are recognised for a commendable cultural achievement and Sharjah celebrates it, all eyes turn towards it, and hearts are drawn to the positive influence it imprints in the minds of intellectuals. Sharjah shines with the light of knowledge, science, and culture, guided by that beacon and enhancing the experiences appreciated by a father figure who makes culture a lantern for those who seek the way.'
A tribute to Sharjah and its leadership
'To Sharjah I say, sometimes words fail us, and joy is something to be lived rather than spoken." My sincere thanks go out to all the cultural figures in Sharjah and those who care about culture and intellectuals. Thanks to His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Thanks to Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA). May God bless you with the wisdom, enlightenment, and brilliance that you sow in the hearts of people at all times. I also thank the cultural office that manages and oversees the Sharjah Gulf Women Creativity Award and everyone who leads, represents, and works within it.
Gratitude to the Cultural Office and recognition of women's roles
I deeply appreciate your focus on those who are most vital in our lives — the backbone of society — and your direction towards families and their women who are mindful, hard-working, and dedicated. This enlightened awareness allows women, proud of their role and devoted to supporting their cultural output, to rival their male peers and enables society to firmly advance towards development and human progress for all mankind.
Previous edition's cultural personality
The cultural personality of the previous edition of the award was the poet Fawziyya al-Sindi from the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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