Can you tell us a little about what your job as Executive Manager in the Chairman’s Office entails?
I effectively manage roles such as working on strategic plans, governance, business development and improving the legislation to increase investment possibilities in books and creative industries. In addition, traveling extensively is one of my prioritized roles as I tend to focus on bridging gaps between cultures, driving high-level programs and projects.
What sort of books did you enjoy reading as a child? Did you anticipate having a career in the arts?
My love and passion for books has grown within me ever since I was a child. I remember the stories my parents used to tell me about HH Sheikh Sultan Al Qassimi, Ruler of Sharjah. One story in particular left a special mark in my heart. HH Sheikh Sultan was gifted a family heirloom, a gold dagger, from his father, however, as he turned 12 years old, he mortgaged that dagger to buy books. The will and enthusiasm that Sheikh Sultan had for knowledge became a driving force in pushing me towards my love and joy for books; my early passion was for children’s books by Roald Dahl. As I grew older, this passion manifested into reading about different historical events and self-motivation topics. It is also essential to acknowledge the surrounding I grew up in and how it emphasized the value of reading and writing. Sharjah plays a prominent role in being the capital of culture and literature, so having a very supportive environment is a blessing in return.
What other professional appointments do you hold? What does this involve?
I am a member of the board of directors of Lightning Source Sharjah, a specialized company for the first time in the Middle East under a partnership contract between the Sharjah Book Authority and Ingram Content Group which provides integrated services for publishing houses and libraries. I am also a member of the board of trustee at CSR UAE Fund, mainly responsible for representing the youth of the UAE community through recognizing and prioritizing their voices in important initiatives. I also had the honour of working with other individuals in establishing the SDG Youth Council which focuses on raising awareness towards sustainable development goals.
What was your path to your current position?
I have a Degree in Science in Organizational Excellence from HBMSU and a Degree in International Business Administration from the HCT. These paved the way to being a graduate of the UAE Government Leaders Program - Future Leaders Category. I am also a Graduate of the Academic Training Program from Al Maktoum College of Higher Education in Scotland and a proud member of the Youth Council for SDGs. This drive and passion to invest in the upcoming generations has greatly shaped me towards being more enthusiastic and creative within my work field.
What more would you like to achieve at the SBA?
I would like to be one of the driving forces behind encouraging investment in the creative and culture industry in the UAE through initiating and developing projects that enhance originality and ingenuity. This would involve focusing upon investing in the younger generation and creating a self- driven passion for books within their minds. I also want to help make Sharjah well-known as the capital of culture and literature and enhance such awareness in different countries and cultures around the world.
What aspects of your job do you find most satisfying?
One of the best factors about my job is the noble cause behind it. The drive towards investing in publishers and the youth for our upcoming generation makes my job very satisfying. It’s really interesting to see this passion and love for books continuing for further generations. Another satisfying aspect is the friends I make along the way, especially during our business trips.
Mariam AlQassab is Executive Manager in the Chairman’s Office, Sharjah Book Authority
