PublisHer, the international network advocating for gender equality in publishing founded by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, has proudly honoured three outstanding women leaders at its second edition of the PublisHer Excellence Awards.
The awards ceremony recognized exceptional contributions by women who have shaped the publishing industry, championed innovation, and inspired the next generation of female leaders.
Sheikha Bodour addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of women’s leadership and visibility in a traditionally male-controlled industry.
She said: ‘These extraordinary women have shaped their own futures while paving the way for countless others. Tonight, we celebrate them and the bright future they represent for women in publishing around the globe.’
Dalia Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her enduring commitment and significant contributions to publishing, breaking barriers and inspiring generations of women across the Arab world.
Humairaa Dudhwala was honoured as the Emerging Leader for her dynamic vision, influential leadership, and dedication to empowering fellow women publishers early in their careers.
And Hana Hamzeh secured the Innovation Award for her pioneering work in reshaping the publishing landscape with creative solutions and forward-thinking strategies, helping publishers adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving market.
The PublisHer Excellence Awards reinforce PublisHer’s mission to highlight women’s voices, foster equitable opportunities, and inspire the global publishing community. PublisHer continues to promote gender equality through mentorship, networking, and empowerment initiatives worldwide.
The awards were part of a dynamic four-day program in Bologna, featuring the first international PublisHer Lounge, offering a comprehensive programme to foster leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional development among women in publishing.
Highlights included engaging panel discussions with international bookwomen on mentorship, trendsetting leadership, talent acquisition, and publishing innovation. There were also sessions on mentorship, innovative publishing strategies, celebrating emerging voices, and exploring transformative leadership.
Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders, build valuable connections, and gain actionable insights to advance their careers and reshape the future of publishing.