Life
by Ruman Baig
35 mins ago
As we celebrate Emirati Women’s Day 2024, HE Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to women around the world. Her unwavering commitment to empowering women, fostering a love of literature, and promoting cultural understanding has left an indelible mark on the publishing industry and beyond.
To celebrate and uplift the women in the region, here’s what she said, “The story of Emirati women is one of resilience, selfless contribution, and boundless inspiration. It’s a story that resonates not just within our region but also around the world, highlighting women who are deeply rooted in their traditions while boldly embracing the future. Thanks to the UAE leadership’s support, Emirati women have been playing a key role in our nation’s progress—from government to education, and from business to technology. Their contributions are shaping our world, and their influence extends far beyond our borders as they continue to break new ground and set the stage for the future. As we celebrate Emirati Women’s Day, we honor their achievements and look forward to a future where their contributions continue to inspire and elevate society, laying a strong foundation for generations to come.”
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, a prominent figure in the publishing world, has been instrumental in championing women’s empowerment and fostering a thriving literary landscape.
Her journey, from founding the Kalimat Publishing Group to becoming the first Arab woman to lead the International Publishers Association (IPA), has inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue their passions and break down barriers.
Born into a family deeply rooted in culture and education, Sheikha Bodour’s early exposure to books laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Recognizing a gap in high-quality Arabic children’s literature, she established Kalimat Publishing Group in 2017, aiming to create engaging and culturally relevant content for young readers.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Sheikha Bodour has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment in the publishing industry. In 2019, she founded PublisHer, a platform dedicated to supporting women’s professional growth and career advancement. Through initiatives like mentoring programs and diversity and inclusion toolkits, PublisHer has empowered countless female publishers to navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
Sheikha Bodour’s commitment to gender equality extends beyond the publishing world. As the President of the IPA, she has represented Arab women on a global scale, inspiring others to pursue leadership roles and break down stereotypes.Her appointment to this prestigious position is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and ability to foster collaboration and innovation.
In addition to her professional achievements, Sheikha Bodour is a passionate philanthropist. Through the Kalimat Foundation, she has worked tirelessly to promote literacy and book accessibility, particularly for children affected by conflict or displacement. Her efforts have brought joy and hope to countless young readers, empowering them through the transformative power of books.
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