Nahyan Bin Mubarak Celebrates ADMAF Awards Winners And Young Media Leaders Graduates In Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, recently honoured five recipients of the ADMAF Awards and 22 graduates from the Young Media Leaders programme. This initiative aims to empower the UAE's future creative professionals and enhance their influence in shaping the nation's cultural and media landscape.
Sheikh Nahyan emphasised the importance of investing in youth as the UAE's true wealth. He stated, "We are pleased today to participate in this honourable celebration of a group of prominent media and cultural leaders." The event highlights the commitment to fostering ambition, merit, and success among young Emiratis.

The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) plays a crucial role in developing Emirati youth through art, culture, and modern media. Sheikh Nahyan noted that these initiatives contribute significantly to expressing national identity. The foundation's efforts align with the Year of Community, promoting social cohesion and preserving cultural heritage.
Huda Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF, expressed pride in honouring winners of various awards in partnership with Gulf Capital, TotalEnergies, and L'ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts. She highlighted that recognising 27 young talents aligns with community values like solidarity and innovation. The programme supports career development amid rapid digitalisation changes.
Rani Raad, CEO of International Media Investments (IMI), praised the Young Media Leaders programme for its intensive training. He said it combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience to develop confident media professionals. "We take great pride in the results of this inspiring collaboration," Raad added.
Recognising Achievements Across Artistic Disciplines
The Gulf Capital – ADMAF Creativity Award 2024 celebrated Dana Alkatheeri from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi for her original composition The Founder's Legacy. This work honours Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's environmental legacy. Abdulla Alneyadi received the Visual Arts Award for his installation Eternal Gateways, symbolising unity through traditional UAE architecture.
Tasneem Albaiti and Alreem Alameri from Zayed University were awarded for their eco-conscious project on sustainable paper production using leaf waste. Their research offers alternatives to traditional wood pulp paper. In jewellery design, Shamma Al Hammadi was recognised for her piece inspired by Emirati pearl diving traditions.
Dr. Karim El Solh from Gulf Capital expressed pride in their long-standing partnership with ADMAF. He stated that these awards open doors for young creatives by providing tools and support needed to thrive in cultural industries. "We remain deeply committed to nurturing the UAE’s creative potential," Dr. El Solh added.
The Young Media Leaders programme offers university students interactive workshops across media fields under guidance from industry leaders like Mohamed Al Hammadi and Dr. Sulaiman Al-Hattlan. This year's cohort included 22 graduates who gained valuable insights into traditional and digital media landscapes.
The ceremony reaffirmed ongoing support for empowering youth through creativity while promoting tolerance, knowledge sharing, innovation, and social integration within society at large—key elements driving progress towards a brighter future for all involved parties alike!
With inputs from WAM