In a distinguished gathering of publishing elites in the Farnese chapel at Palazzo d’Accursio, Bologna, Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi honoured three remarkable women in the publishing world. Sheikha Bodour is known for her unwavering support and commitment to championing women in publishing
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, founder of PublisHer—an international network dedicated to advocating for gender equality in publishing — proudly celebrated the second edition of the PublisHer Excellence Awards.
The awards ceremony recognized exceptional contributions by women who have shaped the publishing industry, championed innovation, and inspired the next generation of female leaders.
Sheikha Bodour addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of women’s leadership and visibility in a traditionally male-controlled industry.
“These extraordinary women have shaped their own futures while paving the way for countless others. Tonight, we celebrate them and the bright future they represent for women in publishing around the globe,” she remarked.
Taking to Instagram, Sheikha Bodour extended her heartfelt congratulations, writing: “Congratulations to Dalia Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, Humairaa Dudhwala, and Hana Hamzeh, winners of the PublisHer Excellence Awards 2025. Your leadership and innovation inspire us all!”
The awards were part of a dynamic four-day program in Bologna, featuring the first international PublisHer Lounge, offering a comprehensive programme to foster leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional development among women in publishing.
During the event, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi was honoured with the prestigious BolognaRagazzi Award for fiction for her children’s book House of Wisdom. She made history by becoming the first woman from the Gulf States to receive this esteemed award.
Sheikha Bodour said: “For me, this award signals a shift towards a more inclusive children’s publishing sector. Amid heightened global tensions, stories like ‘House of Wisdom’ carry a message that books can occasion unity, progress, and a deeper understanding between cultures. It’s a timely statement about literature’s power to build bridges and keep the bigger human picture in view.”
Dressed in a full Valentino gown in pink, Sheikha Bodour, the daughter of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, looked nothing short of elegant and regal in her flowing gown with a dramatic draped cape — a trendsetting detail this season. Her choice of pink was more than just a fashion statement; it symbolised strength and empowerment, making it the perfect reflection of the night’s theme.
