Latest news with #UAEBBY
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.
Sharjah 24
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
UAEBBY forms advisory board featuring Emirati women creatives
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 programs; Amna Al Mazmi, Director of the Kalimat Foundation, widely recognized 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, emphasized 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 organize 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.' 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.
Mid East Info
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Three Stops, Thousands of Titles: Menassah Champions UAE Publishing at Rabat, Sharjah & Abu Dhabi
Emirati publications continue to secure a prominent place among leading literary works at local and regional book fairs, as Menassah Distribution Company participates in three major cultural events across Rabat, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi throughout April and May 2025. With each event, the company reaffirms its mission to promote knowledge and strengthen the UAE's cultural presence on renowned international platforms. Through these participations, 'Menassah' continues to play a pioneering role in promoting Emirati creative output and bringing it to wider audiences of readers and intellectuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. By presenting thousands of titles that reflect the richness and diversity of UAE literature, the company opens new horizons for Emirati publishers, reinforcing the country's position as a dynamic cultural hub and supporting its creative economy. At the Rabat International Book Fair: From 17 to 27 April 2025, 'Menassah' Distribution Company made a notable impact through its participation in the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair in Rabat – one of the most prominent literary events in Morocco. The company introduced Moroccan readers to a wide selection of titles published by 96 Emirati publishers, showcasing 1,069 titles and a total of 3,762 books. This participation fortified the strong cultural exchange between Morocco and the UAE, especially with the Sharjah Emirate being hosted as the Guest of Honour at this year's edition — a tribute to its distinguished cultural and intellectual stature on the international stage. Enriching the World of Childhood at the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival From 23 April to 4 May 2025, 'Menassah' Distribution Company is set to bring a rich literary experience to young readers and their families during the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival — one of the region's largest children's book fairs. The company is presenting 592 titles published by 60 Emirati publishers, with a total of 3,840 books. This participation is distinguished by a collaboration between the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) and 'Menassah' Distribution Company in hosting a dedicated pavilion celebrating the winning titles of the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature, presented by Etisalat as part of the UAEBBY's national programme. The pavilion serves as an inspiring space for fans of children's literature, reflecting the company's commitment to supporting initiatives that foster a culture of reading among younger generations. A Distinguished Presence at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair: 'Menassah' concludes this cultural journey in Abu Dhabi, where it is participating in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair from 26 April to 5 May 2025 — a global platform for the publishing industry and cultural exchange. The company is showcasing 641 titles from 51 Emirati publishers, with a total of 4,086 books, underscoring its commitment to supporting the UAE's cultural movement and expanding its reach to readers and publishing professionals around the world. The joint pavilion with the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) features a curated selection of titles that have won the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature presented by Etisalat. This space serves as a showcase of Emirati literary excellence. A Firm Commitment: Through its diverse strategic participations, 'Menassah' reaffirms its steadfast commitment to solidifying the presence of Emirati books at major cultural events, supporting efforts to promote national culture, and expanding avenues of collaboration with regional and international publishing houses and cultural institutions — all in pursuit of reinforcing the UAE's position as a leading hub in the field of publishing and knowledge production.
