Latest news with #UAEBBY
Sharjah 24
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Int'l Award for Arabic Children's Literature: Call for Entries
Supporting Creative Arab Children Books UAEBBY has invited authors, illustrators, and publishers from around the world to submit their creative works in Arabic through the award's official website. This is part of its efforts to support Arab creativity in children's literature and enhance the presence of Arabic books for children and young adults in the global cultural landscape. Advancing Arabic children's literature The International Award for Arabic Children's Literature is one of the most prominent initiatives contributing to the advancement of Arabic children's literature, with its comprehensive vision that combines quality content, rich language, and profound message. Since its inception, the award has succeeded in transforming into a true platform for discovering talent and nurturing creative individuals. It has also helped motivate Arab publishing houses to produce engaging, creative, and innovative books that take into account the cultural specificities of the Arab region within high artistic standards. 5 Main Categories The total value of the award is AED 1.2 million, divided across five main categories covering various age groups (5-18 years). Prizes are distributed equally between the author, illustrator, and publisher in four categories, while the "Young Adult" category award is awarded to the author and publisher only. The award also allocated AED 300,000 to support specialised training programmes aimed at qualifying and developing young Arab talent working in the fields of writing, illustration, and publishing for children and young adults, in line with international standards and enhancing cultural identity. This year's award categories include: "Early Reader," for children from birth to five years old; "Picture Book," for ages 5 to 9; "Chapter Book," for ages 9 to 12; and "Young Adult Book," for ages 13 to 18. This year's new category, "Nonfiction," recognises distinguished Arabic works that inspire curiosity, promote critical thinking, and present realistic content in innovative, engaging, and age-appropriate ways. Conditions Entries must be original, written in Arabic, and published within the past five years. They must not have previously won any other awards. They must also not infringe on copyright or intellectual property rights. Manuscripts, educational books, series, electronic, or audiobook publications are not accepted. Participation must be through an officially registered publishing house. Resubmission of previously nominated books is prohibited. The jury also reserves the right to withhold the award or disqualify any work that does not meet the requirements. The award invites all those working in the Arabic children's book industry to participate with their works, which combine literary creativity with educational value and contribute to building a generation of readers who are aware and passionate about the Arabic language. Entries can be submitted via the award's website: They must submit a photocopy of the participating book, mention the applicant's name, and ensure all required information is provided in the approved electronic form. The winners are scheduled to be announced during the opening ceremony of the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, where the winning works will be honoured in a festive atmosphere attended by a select group of writers, publishers, and bookmakers from within and outside the country. This represents the culmination of the award's ongoing efforts to support the Arab children's publishing industry and affirms the UAE's ongoing commitment to advancing Arab children's culture and strengthening the role of books in developing the awareness of generations.
Sharjah 24
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
From Sharjah to Globe: Int'l Prize for Children's Lit. launches
From Local Support to a Global Platform Today, this sponsorship stands as one of the most enduring and influential partnerships within the cultural landscape of the UAE and the broader Arab world. Over the past fifteen years, the prize has grown into an international literary platform, celebrating the most distinguished Arab talents in writing, illustration, and artistic direction for children and young adults. It has played a pivotal role in extending the global reach of Arabic children's literature, offering authors, illustrators, and publishers a compelling incentive to create high-quality works that align with international standards. In doing so, it has also helped shape a more professional and structured children's publishing sector, fostering a competitive environment that consistently brings forth exceptional talent with every new edition. A Long-Term Cultural Partnership Since its inception, the prize has sought to bridge the gap in Arabic children's literature by addressing key deficiencies in content, narrative style, illustration, and production quality. The sustained support of e& has been instrumental in establishing a professional framework for the prize — reflected in the diversification of award categories, an increase in monetary value, and the launch of complementary training initiatives such as the 'Warsha' program. These combined efforts have led to a marked improvement in the quality of submissions. Thanks to this continued backing, the number of entries has grown from just 88 books in the inaugural 2010 edition to more than 330 nominations in the 16th edition held in 2024. These figures highlight how the prize has evolved into a true catalyst for the advancement of the Arabic children's book industry. Marwa Al Aqroubi: The Sponsorship Has Broadened the Prize's Global Horizons Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAEBBY, stated: 'The ongoing sponsorship provided by e& since the very first edition has firmly established the prize's stature locally, regionally, and internationally. It has played a vital role in encouraging Arab creatives to develop high-quality content that authentically reflects the Arab child, resonates with their emotions, and strengthens their cultural identity in an ever-changing world.' She emphasized that e& has gone far beyond financial sponsorship, acting as a true partner in shaping the prize's vision and expanding its global reach. She added: 'In recent editions, we have witnessed remarkable growth in the quality of submissions. The narratives have become more refined, illustration styles more diverse, and we've seen a wave of innovative works from Arab publishing houses based in Europe and North America. This clearly reflects the global impact of the prize, which has also helped to build bridges of cultural collaboration between the Arab world and its diaspora. It has provided children of Arab communities abroad with reading material that connects them to their language and heritage—an achievement that would not have been possible without the sustained support of e&.' Mohamed Al Ameemi: Nurturing Childhood Is an Investment in the Future e& reaffirms its commitment to supporting the 'International Prize for Arabic Children's Literature', reflecting its broader vision of social responsibility and its continued investment in culture and people. Mohamed Al Ameemi, Acting General Manager, Northern Emirates, at e& UAE, commented: 'We take great pride in having been part of this cultural journey from the very beginning. This prize is more than a tribute to creative talent—it has served as a catalyst for a new era in Arabic children's publishing. It continues to inspire the creation of literary works that echo the voices and dreams of future generations. At its core, nurturing childhood is one of the most impactful investments we can make to shape a brighter, more inspired future.' He emphasised: 'Our support for this prize stems from a deep belief that culture is the foundation of all sustainable progress. Every Arab child deserves access to literature in their own language—books that reflect their identity, resonate with their environment, and nurture their aspirations. Today, with sixteen years into this partnership, we take great pride in seeing many of the honored works translated into multiple languages and showcased at international book fairs — a clear testament to the lasting value of this investment in the future.' 'Warsha': Where Talent Is Honed and Creativity Is Born Among the prize's most impactful initiatives is the 'Warsha' program, launched in 2013 with the direct backing of e&. Designed to nurture a new generation of writers, illustrators, and publishers, the program aspires to elevate Arabic children's literature to global standards. Through professional training workshops led by both regional and international experts, 'Warsha' has not only refined creative skills but also fostered a vibrant network of emerging talents who are now shaping the future of Arabic publishing with fresh, compelling voices. Over the past ten years, hundreds of young participants from across the Arab world have taken part in the program, with several of them later going on to win the prize, underscoring its role in establishing a sustainable creative foundation. Marwa Al Aqroubi noted: 'Warsha is not merely a training course, it is a space for inspiration, mentorship, and artistic development. This program has transformed the lives of many young creatives, opening doors to professional opportunities that were once inaccessible in the field of children's literature. It has also introduced new techniques in writing and illustration that align with the evolving world of digital and interactive publishing.' A New Identity Reflecting the Prize's Maturity and Global Vision With its 17th edition, the prize unveiled a new identity—rebranded as the 'International Prize for Arabic Children's Literature,' presented by e&—to align with its global aspirations. More than a rebrand, this transformation marks a defining chapter in the prize's journey, signaling its evolution into a truly global cultural platform. It comes at a critical time, when empowering children's literature as a cornerstone for shaping the cultural identity of future generations has never been more essential. The new visual identity draws inspiration from the Rolla Tree, which stands at the heart of one of Sharjah's most iconic landmarks—Al Rolla Square— a historic gathering place where fathers once shared stories and oral traditions. It is a symbol that encapsulates the spirit of the prize: bringing generations together around words, images, and storytelling, and restoring the Arabic narrative to its rightful place in the imagination and memory of the child. The new logo also evokes a deep emotional resonance, strengthening the Arab child's bond with their cultural heritage and local roots. Through this renewed identity, the prize seeks to attract more entries from beyond the Arab world, promote translation, and open new avenues of collaboration with international publishers and literary institutions. As Marwa Al Aqroubi remarked: 'We want Arabic children's books to become an integral part of the global literary scene—and for the Arab child to have a voice that resonates in libraries around the world.' The new name represents a declaration of the prize's maturity and a bold step toward a new phase of institutional and cultural expansion. A Partnership That Yields Globally Competitive Books The collaboration between the UAEBBY and e& stands as a compelling example of how institutional synergy between the cultural and private sectors can catalyze meaningful, lasting impact, sustainably advancing the Arabic publishing industry. This long-standing sponsorship has enriched Arabic children's literature with high-quality publications, encouraged publishing houses to produce more content for children and young adults, and fostered a vibrant literary market aligned with the aspirations of new generations. It has also strengthened Arab creatives' confidence in the future of this sector, opening the door to fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling. As the prize sets its sights on broader global expansion, its partnership with e& emerges as an inspiring model of forward-looking vision, one that anchored in the belief that the words we offer children today are seeds that blossom into thoughtful, creative individuals, confident in themselves and their cultural identity. The ongoing collaboration serves as a vital platform for all those striving to shape a brighter cultural future for children across the Arab world and beyond. Sustainable cultural sponsorship remains a cornerstone in building a knowledge-based community and reaffirms the UAE's position as a global hub for cultural innovation and intellectual advancement.
Gulf News
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Sharjah Ruler launches 'Reader of the Century' platform, designed to empower children
Sharjah: His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the 16th annual edition of the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF 2025), organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, which runs until May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme 'Dive into Books'. His Highness toured the festival halls, which host 122 Arab and international publishing houses from 22 nations this year. Across the festival's 12 days, 133 guests from 70 countries will lead a vibrant and interactive cultural agenda of 1,024+ events, including workshops, theatre performances, interactive sessions, and specialised reading activities which will span diverse genres including arts, culture, edutainment, and more. Dr Sheikh Sultan explored several pavilions at the festival, where the Sharjah Ruler was briefed on their programmes and initiatives focused on instilling a culture of reading in the younger generations. Reader of the Century During the tour, His Highness visited Sharjah Children's pavilion, an affiliate of the Rubu' Qarn Foundation for Creating Leaders and Innovators, where His Highness launched the 'Reader of the Century' platform, designed to empower children and young adults aged 6-18 through literature and knowledge, and enhance their active role in society. The platform encourages children to enjoy reading books and benefit from their content, ensuring a cultural experience that is both enjoyable and enriching. The Ruler of Sharjah also visited the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) pavilion and met with representatives from the Egyptian Board on Books for Young People, the UAEBBY's guest of honour country at SCRF 2025. His Highness was briefed on their vision to enhance cultural cooperation between the UAE and Egypt, as well as to facilitate the exchange of expertise in the development of children's literature and associated initiatives. Upon arrival, His Highness was welcomed by Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hano, Egypt's Minister of Culture; alongside heads and directors of Sharjah's leading cultural and educational institutions, as well as authors, intellectuals, and specialists in children's literature who are part of SCRF this year. New Awards Additionally, His Highness launched the newly redesigned website of the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature, which now showcases the award's updated identity. The Ruler of Sharjah also announced the launch of the 17th edition of the award, which is now open for submissions from individuals involved in the creation and production of Arabic children's books from across the world. During the tour, His Highness also visited the pavilions of the Department of Culture and the Emirates Publishers Association, as well as the 'Read, You Are in Sharjah' platform by Mansa Distribution Company and the House of Wisdom. His Highness was briefed on their respective initiatives, which focus on advancing the publishing sector and fostering cultural engagement, as well as their ongoing efforts to encourage children to develop a strong interest in reading and writing. Dr Sheikh Sultan also visited the pavilions of the Social Services Department, the Arab Children's Book Publishers Forum, the Kalimat Foundation, the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, and the Kalimat Group. The Sharjah Ruler was briefed on the activities of these leading institutions in the field of publishing and knowledge, which actively contribute to initiatives that nurture children's development, foster reading habits, and engage young minds through interactive, educational, and entertaining activities delivered in creative and diverse ways. His Highness concluded the tour at the Sharjah Exhibition for Children's Book Illustrations 2025, which is hosting a diverse selection of artworks this year, including those by award-winning artists. His Highness was briefed by participating local and international artists on their displayed works. Honouring Celebrating creative excellence, His Highness honoured the winners of the Sharjah Children's Book Award, which presents its winners with AED 20,000 for each of the award's 3 categories. Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's latest work House of Wisdom, published by Kalimat Group shined in the English-language Children's Book category (ages 7 to 13). Mohamed Kasbar from Egypt won in the Arabic Children's Book category (ages 4 to 12), for the book Shhh ... It's a Secret, published by Orjouha Publishing, the award was received by the representative of the publishing house, Mohammed Gharib. The Arabic Young Adults' Book category (ages 13 to 17) was awarded to Bahrain's Asmaa Al Sakkaf for On the Equator, published by Hazaya Library. The Sharjah Audiobook Award was bestowed upon Jordan's Nahed Al Shawwa Dear Cows, published by Noon Books. His Highness also honoured the winners of the Sharjah Children's Book Illustration Exhibition Awards 2025. The first prize was awarded to Luis Miguel San Vicente Oliveros from Mexico, followed by Cristina Pieropan from Italy in second place, and Shin Ami from South Korea, who secured third place. Hani Saleh from Egypt, Laura Merz from Finland, and Ali Asghar Bagherzadeh Matak from Iran were each honoured as encouragement for their creative contributions. Future Makers Museum SCRF 2025 introduces a fresh slate of innovative features such as the 'Future Makers Museum' and the 'Sherlock Holmes Exhibition'. A variety of creative workshops are also available, including manga illustration, Make Your Own Bristlebot, Digital Cubes, Spinning Robots, and hands-on science experiments that combine fun with learning. The festival is hosting 133 guests from 70 countries and will stage more than 50 cultural sessions featuring a distinguished group of international writers and illustrators, in addition to 85 theatre and roaming performances.
Gulf Today
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
UAEBBY hosts Egyptian Board of Children's Books as Guest of Honour at SCRF
The UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) is hosting the Egyptian Board of Children's Books (EBBY) as the Guest of Honour at the 16th Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF), which runs until the evening of 4th May at Expo Centre Sharjah. The UAEBBY continues to consolidate its role in building bridges of cultural communication between peoples by hosting the EBBY. This hosting marks a new milestone in Arab cooperation within the children's literature sector. The Egyptian Board of Children's Books, as an active branch of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), showcases its efforts to promote reading and develop Egypt's children's book industry through a joint pavilion with UAEBBY. The delegation will also host sessions and events connecting young readers with leading writers and illustrators. The EBBY delegation includes several notable figures: Dr. Ibrahim Shalabi, a young adult novelist addressing identity and adolescence; illustrator Mohamed Wahba, known for manga-inspired styles and panoramic depictions of Egyptian life; and Haitham Shukri, a storyteller blending performance and narrative. Dr. Nadia El Khouly, Chair of the Board and a Professor at Cairo University, is a prominent advocate for youth empowerment through literature. Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, expressed enthusiasm for hosting EBBY, citing its cultural depth and impact on children's literature. She affirmed the Board's commitment to regional and international cooperation and emphasised literature as a bridge for mutual understanding. Hosting EBBY aligns with the UAE's spirit of openness and cultural diversity. Al Aqroubi added that the hosting allows audiences at the festival to explore diverse literary experiences while providing UAE-based writers and illustrators a chance to exchange knowledge. Guests will also gain insights into the UAE's thriving cultural scene, particularly in children's literature, and will engage directly with festival attendees. Dr. El Khouly voiced EBBY's honour in being the festival's Guest of Honour, viewing the participation as a way to elevate Egyptian children's literature internationally. She noted the educational and aesthetic value of Egypt's books and the importance of sharing these with a wider audience. El Khouly highlighted ongoing cooperation between the Emirati and Egyptian boards, which includes expertise exchange and collaborative programmes. She sees this hosting as an opportunity for festival visitors to explore the richness of Egyptian culture and literature, brought to life by creators carrying messages of humanity and unity. The hosting includes daily events such as storytelling sessions and art workshops led by EBBY members. Meetings with the Emirates Publishers Association, Kalimat Group, Sharjah International Literary Rights Agency, and others aim to explore collaboration. The Egyptian delegation will also tour key cultural institutions like the Sharjah Public Library and the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
Gulf Today
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
New UAEBBY board empowers Emirati women, says Bodour
As part of its participation in the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival 2025, the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) announced the formation of its new advisory board, in an initiative underscoring its ongoing commitment to empowering Emirati women and expanding their role in shaping the future of the board's projects and initiatives. This strategic step also aims to leverage the diverse expertise of the new board members to broaden the organisation's local and international partnerships and to further elevate the standing of children's literature within the Arab and global cultural landscapes. The newly formed advisory council brings together a distinguished group of Emirati women leaders, including Aysha Al Hamrani, an acclaimed artist and children's book illustrator known for her interactive storytelling works; Israa Al Mulla, Director of the International School of Storytelling at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, renowned for her extensive expertise in designing storytelling programmes; Amna Al Mazmi, Director of the Kalimat Foundation, widely recognised for her impactful efforts in empowering children's access to knowledge; Fatma AlKhatib, founder of Sidra Publishing House, known for her dedication to high-quality educational content; Moza Al Rand, Head of Events and Planning at the Sharjah Book Authority; and Noura Al Khoury, an acclaimed Emirati author whose children's books and stories have enriched Arabic libraries with educational and values-driven narratives. Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the UAEBBY, emphasised that the formation of the new advisory board is part of a broader strategic vision to expand the organisation's impact and future role. She said: 'This new board reflects our deep belief in empowering Emirati women to take on leading roles in the development of the children's book industry and to contribute meaningfully to the initiatives we organise to promote reading. These talented women bring fresh perspectives that will strengthen the quality of our projects and widen the scope of engagement with authors, illustrators, and children's literature professionals both locally and internationally.' Deepening ties with writers Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAEBBY, said: 'As we embark on a new and more advanced phase of our journey, the advisory board will play a key role in enriching and expanding our programming. From launching innovative initiatives that target children and young readers, to deepening cooperation with writers, illustrators, and publishers — this board represents a vibrant think tank capable of proposing creative solutions to advance the children's book sector and foster a deeper culture of reading. With this newly appointed board, the UAEBBY aims to reshape its programmes and events to align with evolving trends in reader engagement and publishing for young audiences. The Board will continue to focus on building the capacities of professionals in the field of children's literature, encouraging them to produce high-quality and innovative content. It also seeks to introduce stimulating, interactive events that fuse storytelling, art, and learning to cultivate reading habits and critical and creative thinking among children and youth. The UAEBBY is also committed to addressing the evolving needs of publishers, authors, and illustrators by offering advanced professional development opportunities and hosting workshops and training sessions focused on both the technical and artistic dimensions of children's literature. It further seeks to foster strong partnerships with cultural and educational institutions to strengthen the presence of children's books in schools and public libraries, while contributing to the creation of an environment that nurtures young readers and creative minds, guided by the belief that building a knowledge-based society begins with the very first book a child reads.
