Shoman Foundation Unveils Top Winners of 2025 Children's Literature Prize
The Abdul Hameed Shoman Foundation (AHSF) has recently announced the winners of its prestigious 2025 Children’s Literature Prize, bringing a wave of excitement to young readers and aspiring writers across the region. The announcement was made on August 24 in Amman, and it shines a spotlight on the remarkable talents of children’s authors.
This year, the competition focused on short stories within the enriching genre of travel literature, specifically tailored for young readers aged nine and above. This unique theme is designed to inspire a sense of adventure and curiosity among children about the world around them.
Taking home the first prize is Ruqaya Abdullah Said Al Badi from Oman, who captured the imaginations of the judges with her creative storytelling. Following closely, the second-place winner was Abdelhakim Ahmed from Egypt, while third place was awarded to Sherine Sami Fahmy Rizk, also from Egypt. This event is not just about winning; it represents a commitment to fostering a love for reading and writing among the youth across the Arab world.
In a statement, AHSF CEO Valentina Qassisieh emphasized the importance of travel literature in a child’s development. “Travel literature holds special significance for children and young readers, as it goes beyond mere storytelling,” she said. “It opens doors to diverse cultures and communities, broadening their horizons and enriching their worldviews.”
Qassisieh elaborated on how such literature can ignite a child’s imagination, encouraging them to embark on their own adventures. It serves as a vital tool for enhancing linguistic skills and fostering empathy and understanding in young minds. By reading stories set in different locales, children learn the value of exploration and the myriad experiences that the world has to offer.
The scientific curators of the prize reiterated that incorporating travel literature into a child’s library profoundly enriches their imagination. It invites children to step beyond their familiar surroundings, igniting a fierce curiosity to discover new places and cultures, thus encouraging independence in their learning.
As children immerse themselves in these imaginative narratives, they cultivate not just literacy but also an openness to the beauty of diversity in the world. The growth of future generations who appreciate literature in this way is undoubtedly a step toward greater empathy and understanding in our increasingly interconnected globe.
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