Shams Highlights Creativity And Innovation At The Sharjah International Book Fair 2023

Sharjah Media City (Shams) is actively participating in the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), which runs from 5th to 16th November. Shams is presenting an interactive platform that highlights its recent projects and initiatives in media, technology, and creativity. The event includes various cultural activities and events designed for both the public and professionals interested in publishing and creative content industries.

Rashid Abdullah Al Obad, Director-General of Shams, emphasised the importance of their participation. He stated that it underscores Shams' dedication to nurturing creativity and talent in the region. This commitment is evident through their support for audio-visual initiatives and literary competitions. "It also aims to empower young writers and creators and provide direct interaction opportunities with a broad audience, thereby strengthening Arab content creation and reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a global centre for culture and creativity," he added.

The Shams stand will feature interactive activities powered by AI, specifically designed for children. These activities offer innovative educational and entertainment experiences that blend writing, creativity, and technology. The goal is to enhance children's intellectual and imaginative skills while encouraging them to explore their literary talents in a fun way.

In addition to these activities, Shams will introduce a new podcast titled Bawh Al Kitab (Whispers of the Book). This podcast is part of the "Podcast Room" project aimed at supporting audio and visual content creators. It will feature authors discussing their literary experiences, focusing on how words shape thought and culture. Visitors can attend these live discussions at the Shams platform during the exhibition.

A short story competition will also be launched under the "Writing Room" project by Shams. This initiative seeks to discover young literary talents and promote creativity in Arabic literature. The competition has two categories: juniors aged 12–17, and youth/adults aged 18 and above. Winners will be announced during the exhibition.

The participation of Shams in SIBF reflects its ongoing efforts to support creativity across various domains. By offering platforms for direct interaction with a wide audience, Shams aims to empower young writers while enhancing Arab content creation. These initiatives contribute significantly to reinforcing Sharjah's status as a hub for culture and creativity globally.

With inputs from WAM