Shahad Alsaqqaf
Shahad Alsaqqaf is an Emirati writer, poet, and multidisciplinary artist who explores storytelling through poetry, music, acting, and spoken word. She is an alumnus of New York University Abu Dhabi, with a BA in Literature and Creative Writing with a minor in Anthropology. Shahad moves fluidly between languages and artistic mediums, embracing the intersections of language, performance, and identity to connect with human experiences.
Her work is deeply rooted in both Arabic and English, weaving between the two to create layered narratives. She has performed at cultural events such as NYUAD Art Center’s Hekayah and Rooftop Rhythms. As a member of Al Diwan, she has published original poetry in its Archival Poetry Collection. Beyond the page, Shahad experiments with performance as a mode of storytelling. In New York, she co-wrote and starred in The Real AD show, explored improvisational theater at London’s BRIT School, and made her acting debut in the role of Shabasa in Hamour Doesn’t Leave the Cubicle directed by Reem Almenhali. She has also served as an MC at international events, including the Sharjah International Film Festival, attended by HH Sheikh Sultan Al Qasemi.
Adel Awad
Adel Awad is an Abu Dhabi–born, award-winning spoken word poet and cultural figure whose writings pulse with the diverse and dynamic spirit of the region. For over a decade, he has been immersed in the arts scene—writing and performing spoken word poetry, curating community events, appearing on global stages, and drawing inspiration from the region’s vibrant creative culture.
Adel’s poetic journey began in 2013 and has since earned him widespread recognition, including being named “Best Spoken Word Performer – 2023” by Rooftop Rhythms, the UAE’s largest spoken word platform. He also made history as a member of Sandstorm, the UAE’s first international poetry slam team, proudly representing the nation on the global stage. His powerful voice has resonated at some of the region’s most prominent events, including Expo 2020, Sikka Arts Fair, and the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature. His influence extends beyond the UAE as well, with international performances across the USA, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Portugal, and Sri Lanka.
Adel has also served as a cultural ambassador for spoken word initiatives led by Dubai Culture and the Emirates Literature Foundation, further amplifying the local arts movement. A recurring theme in his work is the search for identity and the truest essence of home. His poetry, rich with reflections on mental health, resilience, and belonging, is at once deeply personal and universally resonant.
Kenan Adnawi
With his exceptional contribution to world music through mastery of the oud, innovative compositions, and cultural preservation, Syrian-born musician Kenan Adnawi has shaped contemporary and traditional musical expressions, connecting Eastern and Western musical traditions through his groundbreaking performances and compositions.
Starting at age seven, Adnawi's musical journey led to prestigious recognition, including first prize at the International Oud Competition in Lebanon (2022) and second prize at the International Oud Competition in Saudi Arabia (2023). His masterful performances have graced prestigious venues, including the Kennedy Center, Theatre des Champs-Élysées, La Scala, and the Bolshoi Theater. These accomplishments highlight his significant influence on global musical culture. The master oudist elevates his instrument through meaningful collaborations with distinguished ensembles, including the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of maestro Lorin Maazel. His partnerships have expanded the oud's presence across international stages while introducing new audiences to its rich musical possibilities. Adnawi's distinctive approach to oud performance pushes creative boundaries while honoring traditional techniques. His compositions blend diverse musical influences with experimental rhythms and improvisational methods, creating fresh perspectives on this ancient instrument. Students and fellow musicians seek his expertise through workshops and masterclasses, where he shares his unique musical perspective. His technical innovations have redefined the possibilities of oud playing, incorporating elements from jazz, classical Western music, and various Middle Eastern traditions to create a unique sonic palette that resonates with audiences worldwide.
His albums Aura (2014) and Watar (2023) demonstrate his skillful integration of Middle Eastern music with global influences. The premiere of his original work Love Dance for Oud and Orchestra at the Bolshoi Theater in 2023 showcases his ability to create sophisticated musical narratives that connect with diverse audiences worldwide. Adnawi's compositions reflect a deep understanding of musical traditions while embracing contemporary sensibilities, resulting in performances that critics have praised for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. His innovative approach to composition has opened new pathways for traditional Middle Eastern instruments in contemporary classical music. Kenan Adnawi combines artistic excellence with academic achievement, holding a master's degree in contemporary music improvisation from the New England Conservatory of Music.
Maha Alkindi
Maha Alkindi is an Emirati writer and poet who discovered poetry in middle school as a way to navigate her emotions. Recognized early for her talent, she won first place in a children’s literature competition and a school talent show for her original work. During the pandemic, she participated in online writing workshops and later founded Writers Unblocked, a community space that supports writers in overcoming creative blocks through prompts and collaboration. In 2022, Maha published her debut poetry collection, Poetry Socks, which explores themes of mental health, love, loss, and nature. She became active in the UAE’s open mic scene, earning a “Most Improved Performer” award, and in 2024 performed at an Emirates Literature Foundation event. In May 2025, she served as a peer reviewer for 421’s Pencil in Writers’ Workshop. Maha aspires to blend poetry with a career in social work, using creativity as a tool for healing and empowerment.
Maisoon Mubarak
Maisoon Mubarak is an Egyptian singer born and raised in the UAE, with a rich background in both choral and solo performances. During her time at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), she was part of the university choir that performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City and took part in international festivals in Lebanon, Jordan, and across the UAE. Maisoon has completed two semesters in Berklee Abu Dhabi’s Vocal Program and is currently enrolled in the PEARL Program, where she is working on two new original songs. Her music blends the timeless beauty of classical Arabic traditions with the warmth of contemporary Egyptian pop, reflecting her belief that music is a way to connect, express, and heal. Some of her solo performances include The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi as well as Berklee Abu Dhabi’s End of Year Recitals and Saadiyat Sounds, among others.
Malavika Suresh
Malavika Suresh is a spoken word artist, writer, and academic based in Dubai, where she was born and raised. Her work explores the nuanced relationship individuals have with themselves. As a poet, she performs, hosts, and curates literary events. Her work has been featured in cultural programs across the UAE, including the Emirates Literature Festival, Sikka Art Festival, and Sharjah Art Festival. She also regularly hosts open mics and curates literary gatherings across the country. As an academic, Malavika has presented research in politics and philosophy at international conferences in Australia, India, the Netherlands, and Canada. As a writer, her recent work includes publications in Women Writing Co and Sunday Mornings at the River, as well as her debut play, Eat Your Feelings. She is a member of the local theatre company +63Kolektib and recently performed in their play Metro Diaries. With a passion for multiple forms of writing, Malavika actively works to blend disciplines and practices, fostering holistic and inclusive conversations.
Nathalia Khawand
Nathalia Khawand is a Lebanese spoken word artist best known for her loud voice and even louder emotional baggage. Her work explores themes of culture and identity within the context of the Arab diaspora. She has performed on stages across London, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, most recently as a finalist in the Roundhouse Poetry Slam 2025. Her work has been commissioned by Meraas as part of its Home to Seeing Differently initiative, and has been displayed at Bluewaters and Dubai Design District.
Nima Elnour
Nima Elnour is a Sudanese-American Partnerships consultant, Poet, Content Creator, and creative visionary with over five years of experience in the creative arts. Her work seamlessly blends legal insight with artistic expression, driven by a deep connection to identity, love, and culture. Since 2017, Nima has been crafting evocative poetry that reflects her experience as a Sudanese-American expat in Dubai. She began performing her work publicly in 2022, captivating audiences with her powerful stage presence and thought-provoking narratives. Beyond poetry, Nima is a bold and relatable content creator with over two years of experience in UGC and social media management. She creates dynamic video and photo content that resonates with audiences while maintaining an authentic connection. Her passion for storytelling also extends to public speaking and theatre, where she’s been active since the age of 16. With a strong academic foundation, a Bachelor of Law and a Master’s in Legal Practice, Nima brings a research-driven lens to her exploration of culture, tradition, and the arts. At the heart of all her work is a commitment to creative integrity, self-expression, and bridging worlds through art.
Nurzy
Nurzy is a 27 year old Lebanese singer- songwriter of Arabic Pop Music. She kicked off her professional career in 2017 as part of the first ever Arab teenage girl group “Carizma”. After going solo in 2022, Nurzy moved to the UAE and released her debut EP Safrit Beirut. Since then she performed in events and festivals across the UAE from “Music At The Boardwalk, Tunes DXB, Sofar DXB, Karak nights, Win the Crowd Abu Dhabi Tv, The Fridge Concert Series, Music Of the Nation, Saadiyat Nights…” and several others. She was nominated for Time Out Dubai’s “Best Original Act” and won Musivv Awards’ “Female Pop Artist of the Year” as well as “Best Performance Award” in Mentor Arabia’s song & film competition in Jordan, under the theme: Mental Health for the Youth. Her recent brand collaborations were highlighted with FujiFilm Arabia’s “Be one of a kind”, and a partnership with Chevrolet Arabia for her song “Albe Blue” Music Video. A member of the 2024 Numoo Artist Development program at The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi, she presented a proposal for her independent debut album set to be released in 2026. The album titled هويتي Hawiyati will be a tribute to her homeland, culture, bringing her authentic story and sound to life."
Omar Awbu
Omar is a Palestinian-American multidisciplinary artist who blends hip-hop, poetry, and storytelling. His work is raw, honest, and unapologetically rooted in faith, spirituality, identity, justice, and truth. Whether through music, spoken word, or film, everything he creates is about breaking barriers, speaking from the soul, and connecting with people on a deeply human level.
Rei Co
Rei Co is a 19-year-old professional dancer and a proud member of Sima Dance Company. She began dancing at the age of six, trained with Sima from the age of eight, and started performing professionally at twelve. By age thirteen, she was already teaching contemporary and hip-hop at Sima Performing Arts, where she continues to teach today. Rei has performed at venues such as the Dubai Opera, Expo 2020, and NYU Abu Dhabi, and has toured internationally with Sima. At eighteen, she created her first original piece, INA, followed by LAYAG for the Sharjah Art Foundation’s April Acts program—both works exploring memory and connection through movement. Most recently, she choreographed a full-length, hour-long performance titled Metro Diaries with +63Kolektib, one of the most collaborative and enriching projects of her career.
Rosan Reodica
Rosan Reodica is a Filipina creative writer, published author, and spoken word artist based in Dubai. Named one of the 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf, she is the author of The Practicing Misis Cookbook and the founder of the Fridge Art Initiative. Writing has allowed her to breathe through the quiet weight of diaspora, often exploring themes of food, motherhood, memory, and identity. With roots in clothing technology and a life woven between art and strategy, Rosan believes in harmony over balance—where creative work and personal truth live side by side.
Sandra Ivette
Sandra Ivette Berriel Jaquinet, a versatile Cuban musician, began her musical journey at the age of six. Proficient in viola, bass, piano, and double bass, she has demonstrated a remarkable range of talents. Her dedication to music led her to major in viola, solidifying her expertise in the instrument. In addition to being a skilled instrumentalist, Sandra is also a talented singer-songwriter. Her compositions draw from a unique blend of musical influences, resulting in a distinctive sound that captivates audiences. Beyond her artistic pursuits, she shares her passion for music as a dedicated teacher. In 2019, Sandra recorded her debut album Comienzo, which was released in 2023, marking a significant milestone in her flourishing musical career.
