Latest news with #MarwaAlAqroubi
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 Today
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
House of Wisdom's camps blend heritage and innovation
As part of its commitment to transforming summer into a season of learning, inspiration, and joy, House of Wisdom (HoW) in Sharjah is preparing to unveil an exciting new edition of its annual summer camp this July and August. Following the overwhelming response and strong turnout witnessed last year, this year's programme is set to deliver three dynamic camp experiences that seamlessly weave together technology, arts, and creative thinking within an environment designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Each of the three camps is thoughtfully tailored to suit different age groups, offering a rich tapestry of activities that blend interactive storytelling, hands-on experiments, arts and crafts, and engaging educational games. The goal is to create memorable experiences where learning and play go hand in hand. Marwa Al Aqroubi, Executive Director of HoW, shared her enthusiasm for this yearly tradition, emphasising that it has become a signature part of HoW's cultural and educational mission. She remarked: 'Our Arab heritage is a treasure trove of timeless stories and cultural symbols that continue to inspire and influence generation after generation. Bringing these narratives to life through contemporary methods and technology gives today's children the chance to connect with their roots in ways that feel fresh, relevant, and accessible.' Children and parents poses for a photograph during a workshop hosted by House of Wisdom in Sharjah. She continued: 'At a time when screens increasingly isolate our children, we are committed to creating spaces that reintroduce the wonder of real-world connection. These camps are designed to nurture essential skills, cultivate collaboration and initiative, and build a generation that knows how to balance knowledge with joy, and heritage with innovation.' The first camp, Kalila wa Dimna, will run from 7 to 31 July and is open to children aged 6 to 12. Inspired by the legendary fables brought into Arabic by Ibn al-Muqaffa', the camp reimagines these stories in fresh, captivating ways. Participants can look forward to lively theatre performances such as The Lion and the Ox and Dimna's Trial, alongside imaginative shadow plays inspired by The Monkey and the Turtle and The Merchant and the Parrot. The experience is further enriched with musical performances and puppet theatre, all designed to ignite young imaginations. Running in parallel, How's Al Jazari FabLab will offer children and teens aged 6 to 15 an immersive educational adventure that fuses storytelling with technology. A series of innovative workshops will equip participants with systematic thinking and practical skills. From recreating the tales of Kalila wa Dimna using AI-powered tools, to exploring the intersection of ethics, science, and art through design thinking, the camp opens up a world of creative possibilities. Participants will also have the chance to get hands-on experience in electronics and coding with Arduino Rapid Prototyping, while the Maker Tales workshop will invite them to blend narrative with 3D printing and laser cutting, crafting their own unique 'Story Box'. The third offering, simply titled Youth Camp, will unfold across July and August for those aged 12 and above. This holistic programme brings together art, innovation, and life skills in an engaging setting aimed at encouraging self-expression and discovery. Among the highlights are The Art of Qalam, a workshop exploring the foundations of classical and contemporary Arabic calligraphy, and Unleash Your Charisma, which empowers participants to strengthen their communication and leadership abilities. Another session, Focus to Achieve... From Mental Chaos to Meaningful Progress, focuses on building mental clarity and focus. The camp also includes creative baking experiences, a dedicated AI Studio for cutting-edge digital projects, and expressive art and craft workshops that nurture both imagination and practical skills. Registration for all three camps is now open via the House of Wisdom's official social media channels (@howsharjah), where families can find full details about each programme and age group. Flexible registration options are available, including daily and weekly passes, along with exclusive discounts for HoW members.
Sharjah 24
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
HoW launches 3 summer camps in July, August
Following the overwhelming response and strong turnout witnessed last year, this year's programme is set to deliver three dynamic camp experiences that seamlessly weave together technology, arts, and creative thinking within an environment designed to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Each of the three camps is thoughtfully tailored to suit different age groups, offering a rich tapestry of activities that blend interactive storytelling, hands-on experiments, arts and crafts, and engaging educational games. The goal is to create memorable experiences where learning and play go hand in hand. Marwa Al Aqroubi, Executive Director of HoW, shared her enthusiasm for this yearly tradition, emphasising that it has become a signature part of HoW's cultural and educational mission. She remarked: 'Our Arab heritage is a treasure trove of timeless stories and cultural symbols that continue to inspire and influence generation after generation. Bringing these narratives to life through contemporary methods and technology gives today's children the chance to connect with their roots in ways that feel fresh, relevant, and accessible.' She continued: 'At a time when screens increasingly isolate our children, we are committed to creating spaces that reintroduce the wonder of real-world connection. These camps are designed to nurture essential skills, cultivate collaboration and initiative, and build a generation that knows how to balance knowledge with joy, and heritage with innovation.' The first camp, Kalila wa Dimna, will run from 7 to 31 July and is open to children aged 6 to 12. Inspired by the legendary fables brought into Arabic by Ibn al-Muqaffa', the camp reimagines these stories in fresh, captivating ways. Participants can look forward to lively theatre performances such as The Lion and the Ox and Dimna's Trial, alongside imaginative shadow plays inspired by The Monkey and the Turtle and The Merchant and the Parrot. The experience is further enriched with musical performances and puppet theatre, all designed to ignite young imaginations. Running in parallel, How's Al Jazari FabLab will offer children and teens aged 6 to 15 an immersive educational adventure that fuses storytelling with technology. A series of innovative workshops will equip participants with systematic thinking and practical skills. From recreating the tales of Kalila wa Dimna using AI-powered tools, to exploring the intersection of ethics, science, and art through design thinking, the camp opens up a world of creative possibilities. Participants will also have the chance to get hands-on experience in electronics and coding with Arduino Rapid Prototyping, while the Maker Tales workshop will invite them to blend narrative with 3D printing and laser cutting, crafting their own unique 'Story Box'. The third offering, simply titled Youth Camp, will unfold across July and August for those aged 12 and above. This holistic programme brings together art, innovation, and life skills in an engaging setting aimed at encouraging self-expression and discovery. Among the highlights are The Art of Qalam, a workshop exploring the foundations of classical and contemporary Arabic calligraphy, and Unleash Your Charisma, which empowers participants to strengthen their communication and leadership abilities. Another session, Focus to Achieve... From Mental Chaos to Meaningful Progress, focuses on building mental clarity and focus. The camp also includes creative baking experiences, a dedicated AI Studio for cutting-edge digital projects, and expressive art and craft workshops that nurture both imagination and practical skills. Registration for all three camps is now open via the House of Wisdom's official social media channels, where families can find full details about each programme and age group. Flexible registration options are available, including daily and weekly passes, along with exclusive discounts for HoW members.
Gulf Today
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
House of Wisdom highlights ‘Kalila wa Dimna' at SCRF
Visitors are excited to see the classical fables of 'Kalila wa Dimna' through interactive technologies and once again dive into the ever-lasting wonders of classical stories. The classical stories of 'Kalila wa Dimna' are being presented at the exclusive stall of House of Wisdom (HoW) which takes part in the 16th Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF), running from April 23 to May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah, with a special focus on the timeless fables of Kalila wa Dimna. Originating in ancient Sanskrit and later translated into Middle Persian, Kalila wa Dimna entered the Arabic literary tradition through the 8th-century translator Abdullah Ibn Al Muqaffa, a key figure in Abbasid-era literature. The beloved work is now being brought to life for young readers through a series of interactive experiences and storytelling sessions at the HoW booth. The initiative aims to present the classic tales in a fresh, engaging format that blends play with learning-encouraging critical thinking and helping children explore universal values through symbolic narratives. Renowned for their moral and philosophical depth, the stories of Kalila wa Dimna have played a significant role in shaping educational and literary traditions across cultures. Their continued relevance today underscores the enduring power of storytelling in cultivating wisdom, empathy, and imagination. Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, said: 'Kalila wa Dimna is a brilliant example of allegorical storytelling at its finest-timeless wisdom told through animals in a style that is both elegant and accessible. Ibn Al Muqaffa gave these tales new life in Arabic, enriching them with moral and educational depth.' She added: 'These fables remain a cornerstone of Arabic literature and cultural exchange. Through our participation in the SCRF, we're reimagining them in a modern, interactive way-inviting children to explore their meaning, reflect, and grow.' House of Wisdom's booth features main stations, beginning with a Manuscript Display showcasing two rare digital copies of Kalila wa Dimna from the collection of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. The first is a unique illustrated manuscript titled The Hare and the Elephant, dated 1222 CE. Comprising 18 chapters and 89 exquisite miniatures, this edition presents animal-led fables interwoven with proverbs and wisdom in a tone that is both witty and profound. The second manuscript dates back to the 14th century Mamluk era and is believed to have originated in Egypt or Syria. It features six tales attributed to the sage Bidpai, complete with a decorative index and striking visual elements that reflect the refined artistry of Islamic manuscript tradition. The second section of the booth, Meet the Characters, invites children on an engaging journey of self-discovery. Through interactive storytelling, young visitors get to know the fable's most iconic characters-like the clever hare, the brave lion, the cunning fox, the mighty elephant, and the vain tortoise. This experience encourages children to reflect on their own traits and connect them with the values each character embodies, combining fun with thoughtful exploration. Visitors will then embark on a unique interactive journey powered by AI, where children can discover which Kalila wa Dimna character best reflects their personality. By answering simple, life-inspired questions, young participants are matched with their spirit animal from the tales. A personalised short story then appears on the screen, tailored to the child's traits and adventures. These stories can be printed or emailed as a meaningful keepsake, inspiring children to create their own tales. The HoW booth also hosts a range of engaging activities and workshops for children, including the interactive Shadow Theatre. This time-honoured storytelling art revives the classic tales of Kalila wa Dimna, immersing children in exciting performances that highlight the ethical lessons within these stories. The experience concludes with a special gift shop offering a curated selection of books, plush toys, educational games, and artistic merchandise inspired by the Kalila wa Dimna world. To celebrate the launch of the SCRF, HoW is offering a 10% discount on its Regular, Premium, and Digital memberships throughout the event.
Sharjah 24
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
HoW highlights ‘Kalila wa Dimna' at 16th SCRF
Originating in ancient Sanskrit and later translated into Middle Persian, Kalila wa Dimna entered the Arabic literary tradition through the 8th-century translator Abdullah Ibn Al-Muqaffa, a key figure in Abbasid-era literature. The beloved work is now being brought to life for young readers through a series of interactive experiences and storytelling sessions at the HoW booth. The initiative aims to present the classic tales in a fresh, engaging format that blends play with learning—encouraging critical thinking and helping children explore universal values through symbolic narratives. Renowned for their moral and philosophical depth, the stories of Kalila wa Dimna have played a significant role in shaping educational and literary traditions across cultures. Their continued relevance today underscores the enduring power of storytelling in cultivating wisdom, empathy, and imagination. Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, said: 'Kalila wa Dimna is a brilliant example of allegorical storytelling at its finest—timeless wisdom told through animals in a style that is both elegant and accessible. Ibn Al-Muqaffa gave these tales new life in Arabic, enriching them with moral and educational depth.' She added: 'These fables remain a cornerstone of Arabic literature and cultural exchange. Through our participation in the SCRF, we're reimagining them in a modern, interactive way—inviting children to explore their meaning, reflect, and grow.' Rare Exhibits and Interactive Encounters House of Wisdom's booth features main stations, beginning with a Manuscript Display showcasing two rare digital copies of Kalila wa Dimna from the collection of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. The first is a unique illustrated manuscript titled The Hare and the Elephant, dated 1222 CE. Comprising 18 chapters and 89 exquisite miniatures, this edition presents animal-led fables interwoven with proverbs and wisdom in a tone that is both witty and profound. The second manuscript dates back to the 14th century Mamluk era and is believed to have originated in Egypt or Syria. It features six tales attributed to the sage Bidpai, complete with a decorative index and striking visual elements that reflect the refined artistry of Islamic manuscript tradition. The second section of the booth, Meet the Characters, invites children on an engaging journey of self-discovery. Through interactive storytelling, young visitors get to know the fable's most iconic characters—like the clever hare, the brave lion, the cunning fox, the mighty elephant, and the vain tortoise. This experience encourages children to reflect on their own traits and connect them with the values each character embodies, combining fun with thoughtful exploration. Discover Your Tale through AI Visitors will then embark on a unique interactive journey powered by AI, where children can discover which Kalila wa Dimna character best reflects their personality. By answering simple, life-inspired questions, young participants are matched with their spirit animal from the tales. A personalised short story then appears on the screen, tailored to the child's traits and adventures. These stories can be printed or emailed as a meaningful keepsake, inspiring children to create their own tales. The HoW booth also hosts a range of engaging activities and workshops for children, including the interactive Shadow Theatre. This time-honoured storytelling art revives the classic tales of Kalila wa Dimna, immersing children in exciting performances that highlight the ethical lessons within these stories. The experience concludes with a special gift shop offering a curated selection of books, plush toys, educational games, and artistic merchandise inspired by the Kalila wa Dimna world. To celebrate the launch of the SCRF, HoW is offering a 10% discount on its Regular, Premium, and Digital memberships throughout the event. This offer provides access to millions of knowledge resources, including books, journals, scientific theses, research papers, and multimedia files, as well as full access to the library's modern facilities and year-round educational and cultural programmes.
