Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) organised a session in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library titled 'Nurturing the Writer: The Qalam Creative Writing Programme as a Model'. This event was part of the Library's cultural programme to celebrate Emirati Writer's Day, observed annually on 26th May.
According to Emirates News Agency, the session was integral to the Centre's strategy to empower Emirati writers and provide them with opportunities to be active in the cultural and creative industries. The event aimed to enable these writers to enrich the Arab library and affirm their pivotal role in the national cultural scene, both locally and internationally. It highlighted the Qalam Creative Writing Programme as a platform dedicated to supporting and promoting Emirati literature.
The session featured Iman Mohamed Turki, Manager of the Qalam Creative Writing Programme at the ALC, along with programme participants Dr. Omar Al Amri, author Nouf Yaqoub Al Mazmi, and author Fatima Alameri. The discussion spotlighted the role of local cultural institutions in nurturing and empowering Emirati writers and the experiences of participants in the programme, which is dedicated to supporting Emirati authors in developing and publishing impactful literary works. The session also explored ways to support new creative talents and the tools necessary to empower them.
Furthermore, the ALC participated in the Mini Book Fair, organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. This two-day event showcased a selection of works by Emirati authors, reaffirming the Centre's dedication to supporting Emirati writers, promoting their creative output, and encouraging a sustainable reading habit. This effort strives to strengthen the Arabic language and spread awareness and knowledge among community members.
Emirati writers are a central priority for the ALC, which dedicates a series of specialised projects to offer Emirati talents significant opportunities to develop their literary skills. These include the Qalam Creative Writing Programme, events and programmes held at book fairs and festivals, educational lectures, and training workshops. Through these efforts, the Centre aims to guide distinguished talents, publish their work in high-quality publications, and pave the way for promising creative works to be published.
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre is committed to providing platforms that enable both veteran and emerging talents to participate in the creative industries, both locally and internationally. The Centre organises forums and events that celebrate their literary achievements and promising creative works, in addition to hosting book signings that bring together writers of different generations in literary evenings held during the international and local book fairs it organises.
Moreover, the Centre celebrates the Emirati literary movement and honours prominent Emirati and Arab authors with the international awards it oversees, namely the Sheikh Zayed Book Award, Kanz Al Jeel Award, and Sard Al Thahab Award. The awards aim to raise the profile of Emirati Writers in the local and international cultural scenes, reflecting the ALC's efforts to showcase the creativity of Emirati writers and document national identity and cultural heritage. This embodies the UAE's vision to support creativity, empower creatives, build a knowledge society, and engage with world cultures.
