UAEBBY Establishes Advisory Board Featuring Influential Emirati Women In Creative Roles

The UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) has introduced a new advisory board. This move highlights its dedication to empowering Emirati women and enhancing their influence in future projects. The announcement was made during the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival 2025. The initiative also aims to utilise the diverse skills of the new members to strengthen local and international partnerships, elevating children's literature globally.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the UAEBBY, stressed that forming this advisory board is part of a larger strategic plan. She stated, "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."

The newly established advisory council includes prominent Emirati women leaders. Among them are Aysha Al Hamrani, an artist and illustrator known for interactive storytelling; Israa Al Mulla, Director at the International School of Storytelling; Amna Al Mazmi, Director of the Kalimat Foundation; Fatma AlKhatib, founder of Sidra Publishing House; Moza Al Rand from the Sharjah Book Authority; and Noura Al Khoury, a celebrated author enriching Arabic libraries.

Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, highlighted the advisory board's crucial role in enhancing programming. She said, "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."

The UAEBBY plans to reshape its programmes and events with this new board. The focus will be on aligning with current trends in reader engagement and publishing for young audiences. The aim is to build professionals' capacities in children's literature by encouraging high-quality content production. Interactive events combining storytelling, art, and learning will also be introduced.

The organisation is committed to addressing evolving needs by offering advanced professional development opportunities for publishers, authors, and illustrators. Workshops will focus on both technical and artistic aspects of children's literature. Strong partnerships with cultural institutions will be fostered to enhance children's books' presence in schools and libraries.

Building a Knowledge-Based Society

The UAEBBY believes that nurturing young readers starts with their first book. By creating an environment that supports creative minds through partnerships with educational institutions, they aim to strengthen children's literature's role in society. This initiative underscores their commitment to fostering a knowledge-based community from an early age.

This strategic step not only empowers women but also enriches children's literature within Arab and global cultural landscapes. By leveraging diverse expertise from its members, UAEBBY seeks to broaden its impact locally and internationally while promoting reading among young audiences.

With inputs from WAM