Kalimat Group, Majid Al Futtaim, and National Paints Group launched a series of literary activations across Sharjah and Dubai

Bodour Al Qasimi: Nurturing a Love for Reading to Build a More Enlightened and Empathetic World

This summer, the UAE is witnessing a remarkable collaboration aimed at making reading fun and accessible to children and youth. Kalimat Group, Majid Al Futtaim, and National Paints Group have joined forces to launch a series of literary activations across popular family destinations in Sharjah and Dubai. This initiative, running through July at City Centre Al Zahia and in August at City Centre Mirdif, features workshops, storytelling sessions, competitions, book sales, and more.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and CEO of Kalimat Group, emphasized the UAE’s dedication to fostering a love for reading among the youth. She highlighted that well-read youth are empowered to shape a brighter future, and this initiative aims to nurture that empowerment.

The collaboration was solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Kalimat Group, represented by Sheikha Bodour, Majid Al Futtaim, represented by Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, and National Paints Group, represented by Samer Salim Al Sayegh. The aim is to promote reading among children and youth, making books a vital part of their summer activities and beyond.

Sheikha Bodour remarked:

Kalimat Group champions immersive reading experiences that excite children and youth, celebrate diversity and empathy, and lead to a deeper understanding of the world. Sustained investment in children's knowledge is vital for fostering creativity and empathy, and we’re committed to investing in book culture, collaborating with likeminded partners, and building a vibrant, knowledge-based society.

Fuad Mansoor Sharaf added:

At Majid Al Futtaim, we are committed to supporting our community by providing a nurturing environment that fosters growth and innovation. This summer, our malls will actively support the initiative by offering dedicated spaces for kids’ workshops and selling children’s books, ensuring that the joy of reading is accessible to all.

Samer Salim Al Sayegh echoed this sentiment, stating:

We believe this initiative not only aims to enrich young minds during the summer but also to cultivate lifelong readers and learners. Through the magic of books, we can open new worlds of imagination, countless adventure, and wonder.

Kalimat Group’s summer initiatives aim to position books as essential tools for the development of youth, supporting academic achievement and fostering intellectual, social, and cognitive growth. This initiative is a testament to the power of partnerships in cultivating a love for reading and promoting a culture of knowledge, contributing to a more informed society capable of meeting future challenges and advancing development.

About Kalimat Group

Founded in 2007, Kalimat Group began as a children's book publishing house and has since expanded to include four imprints: Horouf, Rewayat, Kalimat Quarto, and Comics. Each imprint focuses on promoting literacy and providing diverse, engaging reading materials for different age groups.

About Majid Al Futtaim

Established in 1992, Majid Al Futtaim is a diversified lifestyle conglomerate with operations across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The group is known for its extensive portfolio of shopping malls, hotels, and entertainment experiences, emphasizing sustainable growth and community support.

About National Paints

Founded in 1969, National Paints is a leading paint manufacturer with a significant presence in the Middle East. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, providing a wide range of coatings for various applications.This collaboration is testament to the commitment of all parties involved to enriching the lives of children and youth through the power of books. By making reading a fun and integral part of their summer, this initiative aims to cultivate a generation of well-rounded, informed, and empathetic individuals who can contribute to a brighter future for all.

Article: Ana S. Gad

Source: Zawya

Photo: Bodour Al Qasimi LinkedIn