In a stunning display of talent, creativity, and resilience, the 7th edition of the Gulf Women’s Creativity Award (SGWCA) was held in Sharjah, honoring the remarkable achievements of women across the Gulf region. This prestigious event, under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), recognized the outstanding contributions of female poets, writers, academics, and cultural figures, in a vibrant ceremony that highlighted the power of women’s voices in the fields of literature, art, and culture.
The Gulf Women’s Creativity Award has grown in stature since its inception, becoming one of the most significant platforms for celebrating the achievements of women in the Gulf. This year’s ceremony, which took place at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre in Sharjah, was an unforgettable moment in the UAE’s ongoing effort to empower women and provide them with a stage to showcase their work on an international scale.
The awards cover a variety of categories, recognizing excellence in classical poetry, children’s literature, literary studies, and overall cultural contributions. The winners, each of whom has left a unique mark on their respective fields, were honored not only for their outstanding work but also for their commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Gulf region.
A Celebration of Gulf Women’s Contributions to Culture
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, known for her longstanding efforts to empower women in the UAE and across the Arab world, took center stage during the ceremony, delivering a powerful speech that reinforced the significance of the award and its role in uniting Gulf nations.
Sheikha Jawaher’s words resonated deeply with the audience: “Today, we embrace you to celebrate your winning of the 7th Sharjah Gulf Women Creativity Award. This event strengthens the fraternal bonds between our peoples and reinforces the authentic values shared by our societies. Through your creativity and dedication, you not only honor your own legacy but also pave the way for future generations of women in the region.”
Her words highlighted the broader vision of the award, which is to empower women to continue making meaningful contributions to society while preserving the cultural heritage of the Gulf. Sheikha Jawaher emphasized the importance of unity and cultural exchange, noting that the arts and creativity serve as powerful tools for building bridges between communities.
Classical Poetry: Honoring the Art of Verse
One of the most revered categories of the Gulf Women’s Creativity Award is the Classical Poetry Award, which recognizes women who have mastered the art of traditional poetry—a genre that is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the Gulf. This year, two exceptional women were honored for their profound contributions to classical poetry.
Dr. Dalal bint Bandar Al-Maliki from Saudi Arabia received the award for her mastery of classical Arabic poetry, which blends historical depth with contemporary relevance. Dr. Al-Maliki’s poetry often explores themes of cultural identity, social justice, and the preservation of heritage. Her work has been praised for its emotional depth and intellectual rigor, making her a prominent voice in the world of classical poetry.
Afaf bint Hussein Al-Harbi, also from Saudi Arabia, was recognized for her influential body of work in classical poetry. Al-Harbi’s poetry delves into the nuances of everyday life, using vivid imagery and lyrical beauty to explore universal themes such as love, loss, and hope. Her work has captured the hearts of many, and her impact on the poetic landscape of the Gulf is undeniable.
Children’s Literature: Inspiring Young Minds
The Children’s Literature Award is another vital component of the Gulf Women’s Creativity Award, recognizing the important role women play in shaping the minds of future generations. This year, several talented women from across the Gulf were celebrated for their contributions to children’s literature, particularly in the realm of short stories.
Badriya bint Mohammed Al Badri from Oman was honored for her innovative storytelling techniques and her ability to captivate young readers with her vibrant narratives. Her stories, which often center around themes of friendship, adventure, and cultural values, have become favorites among children in the region. Al Badri’s works encourage young minds to explore the world around them while instilling in them the importance of their heritage.
Maryam Khalifa Al Shehhi from the UAE was also recognized for her storytelling talents. Al Shehhi’s books have become essential reading for young children, as they are both educational and entertaining. Her unique ability to weave lessons of kindness, empathy, and respect into her stories has made her one of the most celebrated children’s authors in the Gulf.
Nada Ahmed Fardan of Bahrain, too, earned the Children’s Literature Award for her contribution to the literary world. Fardan’s stories focus on diversity, empowerment, and personal growth, making them not only enjoyable for young readers but also educational. Her work encourages children to embrace their individuality and learn from the world around them.
Literary Studies: A Commitment to Knowledge and Research
The Literary Studies category of the Gulf Women’s Creativity Award honors women who have made significant contributions to the field of literature through research and academic excellence. The 2024 winners in this category have each made a lasting impact on the academic community, with their work shedding light on the intricacies of Gulf literature and culture.
Dr. Sabah bint Abdul Karim Issawi from Saudi Arabia was recognized for her exceptional research in Arabic literature. Her scholarly work has focused on the intersection of gender, literature, and identity, making her a pioneering figure in the field of literary studies. Dr. Issawi’s research continues to inspire a new generation of scholars and students interested in understanding the complexities of the Arab literary tradition.
Dr. Nadia Hanawi Saadoun from Iraq was also celebrated for her contributions to the academic study of literature. Her extensive research on Arab literature, with a particular focus on modern poetry and narrative techniques, has enriched the literary landscape of the Gulf region. Her work is not only an academic achievement but also a bridge between the past and present of Arabic literary culture.
Sumaya Ali Raheef from Iraq earned the Jury Prize for her exceptional work in literary studies. Her research on the evolution of Gulf literature over the past century has garnered widespread recognition. Raheef’s studies provide valuable insights into the cultural transformation of the region and its impact on literature.
Cultural Personality of the Year: A Lifetime of Achievement
The Cultural Personality of the Year award is the most prestigious honor given by the Gulf Women’s Creativity Award. This year, the award went to Dr. Saeeda bint Khater Al Farsi from Oman. Dr. Al Farsi’s lifetime of cultural contributions has earned her the admiration of many in the Gulf region. She is a renowned academic, author, and cultural advocate who has dedicated her career to preserving and promoting Oman’s rich cultural heritage.
Dr. Al Farsi’s work in the fields of literature, history, and cultural preservation has helped shape the cultural identity of Oman and has made her an influential figure in the Gulf. Her passion for preserving the region’s history and promoting education has led to numerous initiatives aimed at empowering young women and fostering cultural exchange.
Looking Forward: Continuing the Legacy of Gulf Women’s Creativity
The 7th Gulf Women’s Creativity Award has not only recognized the achievements of exceptional women but has also highlighted the important role of the arts and culture in shaping the future of the Gulf region. The event serves as a reminder of the power of creativity to bridge cultures, inspire new ideas, and create lasting change.
As Sharjah continues to position itself as a cultural capital, the Gulf Women’s Creativity Award plays a vital role in showcasing the immense talent and determination of women across the region. The event not only honors the winners but also encourages the next generation of women to follow in their footsteps, ensuring that the legacy of creativity, culture, and innovation continues to thrive in the years to come.
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