Sharjah: The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) held its 2024 Annual General Assembly in the presence of the Association's Board of Directors, Executive Office, members, as well as experts and decision-makers in the publishing sector. The gathering marked a pivotal moment for the organization as it reviewed annual achievements and set the course for future endeavors.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting commenced with a vote of thanks to Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the Emirates Publishers Association, acknowledging her contributions to the UAE's publishing industry. Discussions during the assembly covered the annual report, budget approval, and future plans, culminating in the election of new Board members for the 2025-2027 term. Among the elected, Emirati writer and publisher Amira Ali Bukadra was confirmed as the President of the EPA. She co-founded Ghaf Publications and will be instrumental in guiding the Association's strategic direction.
At the inaugural meeting of the new Board of Directors, roles were allocated with Abdullah Al Sharhan as Vice President, Fatima Al Khatib as Secretary and Member, Mohammed Bin Hatem as Member, and Hamda Al Balushi as Treasurer and Member. The session also included representatives from the Ministry of Community Development, emphasizing the Association's ongoing collaboration with official entities.
Key achievements from 2024 were highlighted, such as the organization of specialized training workshops and participation in local and international book fairs. These initiatives aim to boost opportunities for Emirati publishers and enhance their global presence. The meeting underscored the importance of hosting sessions for the buying and selling of publishing and translation rights with international publishers.
Amira Bukdara expressed her pride in being elected as President and extended her gratitude to the Association's members for their trust. She emphasized the need to build on past achievements to empower Emirati publishers locally and globally. Bukdara reiterated the commitment to providing comprehensive support to publishers through specialized training, broader marketing, and distribution avenues in international forums.
She stated that the new Board is dedicated to developing innovative strategies to support publishers and explore new markets. Bukdara acknowledged the challenges in digital publishing, marketing, and distribution and emphasized empowering women in the sector. She aspires for the Association to be a platform that enhances the role of women, contributing significantly to the industry's growth and cultural enrichment.
Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the EPA, reaffirmed the Association's dedication to supporting the UAE's publishing sector and elevating the industry. He noted that the election of the new Board reinforces active participation in decision-making, which is crucial for the sector's development. Al Kous highlighted the Association's vision of empowering publishers and promoting Emirati content on both Arab and international levels, anticipating a new chapter of growth and innovation under the guidance of the new board and the support of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi.