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have been writing ever since I learned to spell, and over the inspiration filled years, I fondly recall the origins of my passion, which can be traced back to the poems scribbled across the back pages of my fourth grade textbooks. On my journey towards becoming a writer, I have had the great fortune of interacting with a wide variety of people but nothing is more riveting than the opportunity to interview an accomplished writer and poet who, has not only won an award for her literary contributions, but has had her poems transformed into beautiful songs by famous singers! Dr. Maitha Al Hameli is our Emirati in Focus this issue. Born in Abu Dhabi, she received her bachelor's degree from the United Arab Emirates University and completed her graduate studies at the University of Cairo, where she earned the highest grade awarded doctorate. The Emirati writer and poet achieved a doctorate degree in Political Awareness, and a UNESCO certificate in “Strengthening National Capacities for Safeguarding Cultural Heritage”. She also won the L'Officiel's Arab Woman Award for best writer and poet. She has three books published and maintains an active blog where many of her poems can be read. What inspired you to write poetry? I inherited the love of poetry from my grandfather and he was my first teacher. When did you write your first poem? During my preparatory stage in school but at such a young age, I still needed practice. Your poems have been sung by many singers; which one is your favourite composition?
awards; how does it feel to be such an accomplished women in the Arab World?
You have a doctorate in political awareness of Emirati women. Why did you choose this specific area?
There is no doubt that I am proud of receiving these awards, especially since I am originally a Bedouin and as such consider this honour to be a great responsibility to my origins.
Because of my passion and love for the many women in this country, and the urgency of creating their necessary political awareness; especially since the inclusion of women in the electoral experience.
What are your views on the role of women and their contributions to the Arab world in general and the UAE in particular?
You have been certified by UNESCO for ‘Strengthening National Capacities for Safeguarding Cultural Heritage.’ How was this achieved?
Women have been absent for a very long time from a great many scenes in the literary and political aspects of our culture, but in recent years they have shown their merit and won the respect and trust of leaders and society. Emirati women today are a potent example of the ambition, success and potential of the Arab and Khaleeji female culture. The Emirati woman has emerged in many regional and international forums and has been the highlight of achievements on a global scale.
I achieved it through various courses and seminars I attended in the UAE and through my association with the great team I had the pleasure of working with. Is there any advice you would like to share with the Arab youth in regards to achieving their goals? Hold on to your parents, never lose your loyalty to your country, and always be keen on success; no matter what the obstacles.
I am truly humbled and grateful to the many talented artists that immortalized my works by transforming them into beautiful songs and it is difficult to single out just one. Some of my favourite interpretations are by The Dubai Group, Walid Ibrahim, Harbi Al Ameri and Abdullah Al Mamari. Do you think the essence of a poem changes when it is combined with music and sung? Not at all, and the change is dependant upon how the song is received and understood. You have been the recipient of many The Source
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