In the heart of the Middle East, where tradition and modernity intertwine, emerges a beacon of hope and empowerment—Her Excellency Sheikha Intisar AlSabah. A distinguished member of Kuwait’s ruling family, Sheikha Intisar has dedicated her life to uplifting others, harnessing the transformative power of theatre and positive psychology to foster personal and societal growth.
A Royal’s Journey to Social Entrepreneurship
Born on September 12, 1964, in Kuwait City, Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah’s lineage is deeply rooted in Kuwaiti heritage. However, her aspirations transcended royal expectations. Driven by a profound desire to effect change, she ventured into social entrepreneurship, philanthropy, authorship, and film production. Her multifaceted endeavors reflect a commitment to health, education, women’s empowerment, and human rights.
Harnessing Theatre for Leadership Development
Central to Sheikha Intisar’s mission is her belief in theatre as a catalyst for leadership and personal development. She posits that theatrical experiences can unlock authenticity, enhance communication skills, and build confidence. By immersing individuals in the art of performance, they confront vulnerabilities, embrace empathy, and emerge as more effective leaders. This innovative approach has been instrumental in nurturing a new generation of leaders in Kuwait and beyond.
Intisar Foundation: Healing Through Drama Therapy
In 2019, Sheikha Intisar established the Intisar Foundation, a charitable organization registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. The foundation pioneers the use of drama therapy to support Arab women affected by war and trauma. Recognizing the profound psychological scars left by conflict, the foundation offers a safe space for expression and healing. Through structured theatrical interventions, participants process their experiences, rebuild self-esteem, and foster resilience.
A notable collaboration in September 2020 with the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik in Lebanon led to the enrollment of 15 female Arab students into a master’s program in drama therapy. This initiative not only empowers the students but also ensures the sustainability and cultural relevance of therapeutic practices in the region.
Alnowair and Bareec: Infusing Positivity into Communities
Sheikha Intisar’s vision of a more positive society materialized with the launch of Alnowair in 2013, coinciding with the UN International Day of Happiness. This non-profit organization is dedicated to promoting positivity in Kuwait. Its initiatives include:
- Boomerang: An anti-bullying program targeting schools to foster kindness and respect among students.
- Yelloworks: A corporate training module aimed at cultivating positive work environments.
- Yellow Window: An awareness campaign highlighting the benefits of a positive attitude within governmental and public institutions.
Complementing Alnowair’s mission, Bareec integrates positive psychology and theatre techniques into formal education. By doing so, it enhances student well-being, academic performance, and overall school climate. These programs collectively aim to shift societal norms towards optimism and proactive problem-solving.
Intisars and Ebbarra: Social Enterprises Empowering Women
Beyond non-profit ventures, Sheikha Intisar has founded social enterprises that intertwine art, culture, and empowerment:
- Intisars: A jewelry brand that transcends conventional adornment. Each piece is designed to symbolize self-love and resilience, encouraging women to embrace their inner strength and beauty.
- Ebbarra: An initiative that celebrates poetry, offering women a platform to express themselves creatively. Through poetic expression, participants embark on journeys of self-discovery and empowerment.
These enterprises not only provide economic opportunities but also serve as mediums for personal growth and cultural preservation.
Global Recognition and Honors
Sheikha Intisar’s relentless dedication has garnered international acclaim. In 2022, His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium honored her with the insignia of the Knight in the Order of the Crown, acknowledging her humanitarian efforts in education, women’s empowerment, and peacebuilding. The same year, she received the Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour from former French President François Hollande, further cementing her status as a global humanitarian leader.
Personal Reflections and Philosophy
At the core of Sheikha Intisar’s endeavors lies a simple yet profound philosophy: positivity begets change. She believes that by fostering a positive mindset, individuals can overcome adversities and contribute meaningfully to society. Her initiatives are embodiments of this belief, each designed to instill hope, resilience, and a sense of purpose.
In her own words, “Peace ruling supreme in the Arab world is my life vision.” This vision is not merely aspirational but is actively pursued through her diverse projects that address the psychological and emotional well-being of individuals, particularly women and children.
Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
As of 2025, Sheikha Intisar continues to expand her initiatives. The Intisar Foundation is set to launch new programs targeting refugee populations, aiming to provide psychological support through drama therapy. Alnowair plans to broaden its outreach, introducing digital platforms to disseminate positive psychology resources, making them accessible to a global audience.
Furthermore, collaborations with international organizations are underway to replicate the success of her programs in other conflict-affected regions. By doing so, Sheikha Intisar hopes to create a ripple effect, inspiring similar models of empowerment and healing worldwide.
Inspiration Amidst Challenges
Sheikha Intisar’s journey is a testament to the impact of compassionate leadership. Her ability to intertwine cultural arts with psychological support showcases innovation rooted in empathy. Through her work, countless individuals have rediscovered hope and purpose, embodying the transformative power of kindness and creativity.
Her story serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for future generations to harness their passions for the greater good. In a world often overshadowed by challenges, Sheikha Intisar AlSabah stands as a reminder that positive change is not only possible but attainable through dedication, innovation, and an unwavering belief in the human spirit.Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
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