Latest news with #KalimatFoundation
Sharjah 24
6 days ago
- General
- Sharjah 24
Kalimat Foundation raises AED 135,000 to support children in Gaza
Amna Al Mazmi, Director of Kalimat Foundation, emphasised the campaign's purpose saying, 'The overwhelming response to 'Stitching Hope for Gaza' has been deeply moving. This campaign was created through a desire to offer urgent support and express unwavering solidarity with the children of Gaza during unimaginably difficult times. By weaving the rich tapestry of Palestinian heritage into products that people could embrace, we created a powerful channel for compassion. We extend our deepest gratitude to every individual who purchased an item, and to our incredible partners who helped share this message of hope so widely. This is solidarity in action.' Cultural expression and humanitarian action The 'Stitching Hope for Gaza' campaign was a heartfelt fusion of cultural expression and humanitarian action, launched as a gesture of solidarity with the people of Gaza, particularly the children enduring the devastating impact of the ongoing war. Through a special merchandise line deeply inspired by heritage, the collection celebrated the beauty and symbolism of Palestinian culture, prominently featuring the revered keffiyeh pattern and the intricate artistry of traditional Palestinian embroidery (Tatreez). The collection featured a diverse range of items, including stylish t-shirts, handbags, leather and fabric wallets, and scarves. It also included a collection of stationery such as notebooks, stickers, pen holders, and collectible pins. Receiving incredible public support, Over 2,000 items were purchased throughout the campaign, and each piece served as a symbol of compassion, with all proceeds directly supporting critical aid for affected children through the Emirates Red Crescent. Collaboration and support The campaign's reach and success were extended through the generous collaboration and support of key institutions and venues across Sharjah and beyond. Partners including Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP); Majid Al Futtaim shopping centres; the Sikka Art Fair; Sharjah's renowned book fairs; and the American University of Sharjah (AUS) played crucial roles by hosting or showcasing the merchandise line. The initiative culminated in a special community event at the Racks Board Game Café (AUS Branch), held in partnership with the AUS Palestinian Club. The proceeds of 'Stitching Hope for Gaza' powerfully underscores Kalimat Foundation's commitment to leveraging culture and community engagement for humanitarian impact. The Foundation remains dedicated to supporting vulnerable children through access to books and knowledge, and will continue its mission to provide hope and essential support to children in need worldwide.
Sharjah 24
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Kalimat Foundation announces region's 1st inclusive book series
Chaired by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Chairperson of Kalimat Foundation, the Board of Trustees convened at Expo Centre Sharjah to review this landmark achievement and set future strategies to expand the Foundation's humanitarian and educational impact. The meeting was attended by members of the Board of Trustees, including Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi; Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan bin Khalid Al Qasimi; Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan; Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashimi; Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri; His Excellency Mohamed Abdullah; Ahlam Bolooki; and Fuad Mansoor Sharaf. A transformative step for inclusive literacy The newly announced inclusive book series has been thoughtfully designed to serve both visually impaired and sighted children equally. Developed with the support of Sharjah Islamic Bank and Sharjah Charity Association, the print-braille collection offers educational and recreational content through printed text, braille, and tactile illustrations, broadening horizons and fostering a shared culture of reading. This initiative is the first of its kind in the region, representing a transformative step forward in accessible publishing and reinforcing Kalimat Foundation's vision of a future where every child can learn, imagine, and thrive on equal footing. Commenting on the book series launch, Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said during the Board of Trustees meeting: "This new inclusive book series embodies our belief that every child deserves to experience the magic of reading. By creating books that bring together visually impaired and sighted children in a shared reading experience, we are taking a decisive step towards building a more inclusive and compassionate future. This initiative reflects our commitment to not just closing the accessibility gap, but reimagining a world where diversity is embraced, and knowledge is a right for all." As part of its participation in the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival, Kalimat Foundation is showcasing the inclusive book series at its dedicated pavilion, offering visitors a first-hand experience of the Foundation's latest innovation in inclusive education. The pavilion also features a range of Kalimat Foundation's merchandise, inspired by its humanitarian mission to support literacy, inclusion, and cultural empowerment. Following the meeting, the Trustees toured the pavilion and engaged with the Foundation's ongoing projects that continue to advance its mission of fostering equitable access to knowledge. Review of recent achievements During the meeting, the Board also reviewed the Foundation's key achievements since the start of the year 2025. Among the highlights was the donation of 400 Arabic-language books to Palestinian children residing at the Emirates Humanitarian City in Abu Dhabi, carried out under the "Pledge a Library" initiative and launched in conjunction with the UAE's Month of Reading. Another milestone was the Foundation's cultural and educational campaign in Morocco, launched as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour participation at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair. The campaign included the distribution of 600 Arabic-language books to schools and associations, including a special reward to the winners of the Moroccan Reading Network competition. Strategic roadmap for future expansion Looking ahead, the Board approved a strategic roadmap focused on expanding the "Pledge a Library" initiative to supply portable libraries to local charity schools across the UAE, ensuring sustainable funding for projects, adopting enhanced evaluation frameworks, and broadening Kalimat Foundation's regional and international outreach.
Sharjah 24
20-04-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
KF brings its humanitarian message to Morocco with 600 books
Official visit to Moulay Ali Cherif Primary School in Rabat The Foundation's programme culminated in an official visit to Moulay Ali Cherif Primary School in Rabat, led by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Chairperson of Kalimat Foundation. She was received by the school's director, ElMostafa Bouarda, who briefed her on the school's educational efforts and accompanied her on a tour of the classrooms along with other members of the delegation. During the visit, Sheikha Bodour held an interactive reading session with students, sharing excerpts from her book House of Wisdom, which highlights the legacy of knowledge and Arab civilisation. As part of the Foundation's vision to nurture a lifelong connection with reading, she gifted each child a personal copy of the book—planting a seed for curiosity and intellectual growth. The school was also gifted a portable library of 100 Arabic-language children's books, reinforcing Kalimat Foundation's commitment to making knowledge more accessible to young learners. The event was attended by a number of prominent Emirati and Moroccan figures in the cultural and educational sectors, including H.E. Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah and Board Member of Kalimat Foundation; H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority and Board Member of Kalimat Foundation; Abdellah Sghir, Regional Director at the Moroccan Ministry of National Education in Salé; Rachida Roki, President of the Association Reading Network in Morocco; Yasmine Kouikbi, representative of the Moroccan Council for Children's Books; as well as education leaders and representatives of partner organisations. Commenting on the initiatives, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Founder and Chairperson of Kalimat Foundation, said: 'We are not simply providing children with books; we are offering them tools to dream and a window onto a broader world of possibilities. In Morocco, we brought with us Sharjah's belief that every child has non-negotiable rights: the right to read, to question, and to explore. These initiatives reflect our mission to build communities that view investment in children as an investment in the future. In every book we shared, and every interactive reading session we hosted, our message remained clear: knowledge is a basic right of every child, and reading makes a real difference in both individual lives and entire communities.' Field visit and library upgrade at ASSAS Association in Ifrane Kalimat Foundation also carried out a field visit to the ASSAS Association in Ifrane, where it donated a Portable library of 100 Arabic-language books. The visit included a reading session of Famous by Accident , published by Kalimat Group, followed by a hands-on creative workshop where children designed costumes based on the book's characters. In addition to donating books, the Foundation supported the renovation and upgrade of the association's library and provided ten digital tablets to enhance the learning environment with interactive tools and promote sustainable education. These initiatives were made possible through proceeds from the sale of products designed in collaboration with Emirati artist Mohammed Al Mansoori, Kalimat Foundation's Creative Ambassador, with a portion of the proceeds allocated to fund the 'Pledge a Library' programme in Morocco. Two more Portable libraries and 200 books for young reading champions The Foundation also donated two additional Portable libraries—one to the Walja Al Sultan School Group and another to the Al Tanmiya School Group—each containing 100 Arabic books. Additionally, 200 books were presented to children awarded by the Moroccan Reading Network in recognition of their commitment to reading. These gifts aimed to reward their passion, expand their cultural horizons, and nurture their intellectual growth. Rachida Roky, President of the Association Reading Network in Morocco, expressed her appreciation for the initiative, saying: 'What Kalimat Foundation has brought to Morocco goes beyond book donations. It establishes a living relationship between children and knowledge through interactive experiences that enrich reading and connect it to everyday life. These initiatives serve as a model of collaborative Arab cultural action and reflect a genuine commitment to making reading a right for all—not a privilege for a few.' A strategic and humanitarian vision for child empowerment Kalimat Foundation's work in Morocco is part of its broader mission to ensure children—particularly those affected by economic hardship, remote geographies, or humanitarian crises—have access to knowledge. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed thousands of books and implemented impactful initiatives across dozens of countries, placing literacy and reading at the heart of its development and humanitarian goals.
Gulf Today
19-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Kalimat empowers Gazan children in Abu Dhabi with 400 books
As part of its efforts to empower underprivileged children and uphold their right to read, and in line with UAE 'Reading Month,' Kalimat Foundation, a UAE-based non-profit organisation, has donated 400 Arabic-language books to Palestinian children residing in Emirates Humanitarian City (EHC) in Abu Dhabi. This donation took place during a visit to the city, led by Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Former Minister and Vice President of Kalimat Foundation Board of Trustees, where she was hosted by Mubarak Falah Al Qahtani, the official spokesperson for Emirates Humanitarian City, in the presence of Amna Al Mazmi, Director of Kalimat Foundation, members of the foundation's team, and representatives from Multiply Group, the Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company that generously funded the donation. The donation falls under the 'Pledge a Library' initiative, which seeks to ensure children's access to knowledge and support their educational journey. As part of this initiative, portable libraries filled with a variety of books catering to different age groups were donated, alongside the organisation of engaging activities that included interactive workshops, recreational events, and cultural sessions. The visit welcomed 50 children aged 6 to 10, aiming to instil a love for reading and foster their intellectual and cultural development. The visit welcomed 50 children aged 6 to 10, aiming to instil a love for reading and foster their intellectual and cultural development. This initiative reflects Kalimat Foundation's commitment to ensuring children have access to books and the opportunity to continue their educational and cultural development, particularly in environments that require special support. It also reinforces Emirates Humanitarian City's role as a comprehensive humanitarian model, providing a fully integrated living environment for displaced individuals from crisis and conflict zones worldwide, while addressing their educational, cultural, medical, and recreational needs. 300 books for the school and 100 books for the nursery As part of the donation, two portable libraries were gifted to the school at Emirates Humanitarian City, containing 200 Arabic-language books, along with a portable library for the nursery, which includes 100 Arabic books. Additionally, 100 extra books were gifted directly to children who participated in an interactive reading session led by journalist and children's book author Samia Ayish, who took them on a journey through the book 'Aashat Al-Sheen', published by Kalimat Group. The visit also included a generous contribution from Sahar Wahbeh, creative designer and founder of 'Dumyé', who gifted the nursery children handmade customised dolls, and conducted a doll-making workshop for the schoolchildren, providing them with an opportunity to unleash their creativity, nurture their sensory skills, and enhance their ability to communicate and innovate within an engaging educational environment. A comprehensive vision for empowering children and youth Commenting on the initiative, Amna Al Mazmi, Director of Kalimat Foundation, reaffirmed the foundation's commitment to supporting Palestinian children affected by the war on Gaza. She said: 'At Kalimat Foundation, we take pride in contributing to the UAE's vision, which places education and knowledge at the heart of its development efforts, believing that building human capacity is the cornerstone of building societies. Providing access to education for underprivileged children is not merely a humanitarian duty but an investment in a brighter future. We firmly believe that every child has the right to access knowledge and cultural resources, no matter the challenges they face.' 'We are proud to collaborate with institutions that share our vision, as these partnerships amplify the impact of our initiatives and embody the values of solidarity and cooperation that define the UAE. Through the 'Pledge a Library' initiative, we seek to empower children in their educational and cultural journey, planting seeds of hope in their hearts so they grow up with a passion for knowledge and the ability to create positive change in their communities and the world around them,' she added. Best investment Samia Bouazza, Group CEO and Managing Director of Multiply Group, said: 'At the core of Multiply Group's ethos is a culture of knowledge sharing and lifelong learning. We believe that the best investment is in one's education, and we are committed to increasing access to the tools that enable individuals to unlock their full potential. Last year, we launched our 'Read to Lead' CSR programme, pledging to deliver thousands of books to communities across the Middle East. This year, we continue with our commitment by partnering with Kalimat Foundation on their 'Pledge a Library' initiative, to make knowledge more accessible and nurture a growth mindset across communities.' Emirates Humanitarian City's efforts in supporting Palestinians In turn, Mubarak Falah Al Qahtani, Official Spokesperson for Emirates Humanitarian City, said: "In line with the directives of the wise leadership, Emirates Humanitarian City has welcomed hundreds of injured children, cancer patients, and their accompanying family members from Gaza. The city, in collaboration with healthcare authorities in Abu Dhabi, is dedicated to providing the necessary medical treatment while also ensuring comprehensive physical and psychological care. This initiative reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting the Palestinian people during this critical humanitarian crisis." Al Qahtani further emphasised that Kalimat Foundation's contribution of children's libraries plays a vital role in enriching the living environment within the city by offering a culturally and educationally stimulating experience for Palestinian children. This initiative not only fosters intellectual and emotional well-being but also ensures the continuity of their education, enabling them to pursue learning despite the challenges they face. This latest contribution builds upon Kalimat Foundation's long-standing commitment to supporting Palestinian children, and previously, the foundation has made notable efforts through its Ara Initiative, providing accessible books for blind and visually impaired children within Palestine. Furthermore, the foundation's 'Stitching Hope for Gaza' merchandise line, launched in April 2024, has demonstrated ongoing support, with all proceeds dedicated to the 'Tarahum for Gaza' campaign. These efforts collectively underscore Kalimat Foundation's dedication to empowering children affected by conflict and disability, fostering education, and preserving cultural identity in deeply challenging circumstances.
Khaleej Times
18-03-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE: 400 Arabic-language books donated to Palestinian children in Abu Dhabi
It also includes a generous contribution from Sahar Wahbeh, creative designer and founder of 'Dumyé,' who gifted the nursery children handmade customised dolls As part of its efforts to empower underprivileged children and uphold their right to read, and in line with UAE 'Reading Month,' Kalimat Foundation (KF), a UAE-based non-profit organisation, has donated 400 Arabic-language books to Palestinian children residing in Emirates Humanitarian City (EHC) in Abu Dhabi. As part of the donation, two portable libraries were gifted to the school at Emirates Humanitarian City, containing 200 Arabic-language books, along with a portable library for the nursery, which includes 100 Arabic books. Additionally, 100 extra books were gifted directly to children who participated in an interactive reading session led by journalist and children's book author Samia Ayish, who took them on a journey through the book 'Aashat Al-Sheen,' published by Kalimat Group. The donation falls under the 'Pledge a Library' initiative, which seeks to ensure children's access to knowledge and support their educational journey. As part of this initiative, portable libraries filled with a variety of books catering to different age groups were donated, alongside the organisation of engaging activities that included interactive workshops, recreational events, and cultural sessions. The visit welcomed 50 children aged 6 to 10, aiming to instill a love for reading and foster their intellectual and cultural development. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. It also included a generous contribution from Sahar Wahbeh, creative designer and founder of 'Dumyé,' who gifted the nursery children handmade customised dolls, and conducted a doll-making workshop for the school children, providing them with an opportunity to unleash their creativity, nurture their sensory skills, and enhance their ability to communicate and innovate within an engaging educational environment. This latest contribution builds upon Kalimat Foundation's long-standing commitment to supporting Palestinian children, and previously, the foundation has made notable efforts through its Ara Initiative, providing accessible books for blind and visually impaired children within Palestine. Furthermore, the foundation's 'Stitching Hope for Gaza' merchandise line, launched in April 2024, has demonstrated ongoing support, with all proceeds dedicated to the 'Tarahum for Gaza' campaign.
