Introduction to Bodour Al Qasimi
Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, a prominent figure in the global publishing industry and a Jequesa from the Sharjah Emirate, has been appointed as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Literature. This prestigious appointment, confirmed by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, recognizes her worldwide efforts in promoting publishing and educational development.
Al Qasimi’s Leadership in Education and Publishing
As the President of the American University of Sharjah and the Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Al Qasimi has championed access to knowledge, creative expression, and education for over a decade. These efforts have been instrumental in fostering sustainable progress.
Al Qasimi’s Achievements
- First Arab woman to preside over the International Publishers Association (IPA) since its founding in 1896, leading global dialogues on inclusivity, publication freedom, and equitable access to knowledge.
- Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, a leading Arab publishing house that has shaped the modern publishing industry in the UAE and the broader Arab world.
- Established key institutions such as the Emirates Publishers Association, UAEBBY (United Arab Emirates Bookworms Youth), and Knowledge Without Borders, all dedicated to promoting a culture of reading and literacy.
- As Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, she oversees the annual International Book Fair in Sharjah, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious literary events.
- Under her leadership, the UAE’s publishing sector has expanded its international reach by participating as a Guest of Honor in major book fairs worldwide in Rabat, Seoul, London, Frankfurt, and Guadalajara (Mexico).
- Presided over Sharjah’s tenure as UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019, leading an annual cultural program that transformed the emirate into a global hub for books and creative dialogue.
- Played a crucial role in the UAE’s adherence to the Marrakesh Treaty, ensuring better access to books for visually impaired individuals.
- Supported the restoration of Beirut’s public libraries following the 2020 port explosion.
- Founded PublisHer, a global platform uniting over 1,000 women in the publishing industry to promote gender equality, inclusion, and diversity.
Recognition and Awards
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to education and cultural development, the University of Leicester (UK) awarded Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi an Honorary Professorship, the first in its history, for her work in empowering women and promoting child literacy.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Bodour Al Qasimi? She is a prominent figure in the global publishing industry and a Jequesa from the Sharjah Emirate, known for her efforts in promoting publishing and educational development.
- What is her role as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador? Al Qasimi will work with UNESCO to advocate for literacy, education, and cultural access worldwide.
- What are some of her notable achievements? She has been the first Arab woman to preside over the International Publishers Association, founded Kalimat Group, and established key institutions promoting literacy. She has also expanded the UAE’s publishing sector internationally and played a crucial role in global literary events.
