An Inclusive, Multilingual World at SCRF: A Celebration of Stories and Diversity
The Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) continues to be a hallmark event that champions inclusivity and the power of storytelling, offering an extensive array of multilingual literary experiences tailored for a diverse audience. In an age where the need for representation and accessibility in literature is paramount, SCRF has made tremendous strides. With its commitment to diversity, the festival curates books that cater to a wide spectrum of readers, spanning early literacy for children aged six and above, to more complex narratives for tweens and adults. Mohammad Khalil, Production Manager at Kalimat Group, emphasized the significance of their extensive collection, which comprises over 300 titles in both Arabic and English. This selection is designed not only to enhance the reading experience but also to instill a lifelong love for Arabic literature from an early age while ensuring that English-speaking readers are also well catered for.
The Transformative Power of Storytelling
SCRF 2025 showcases storytelling as a universal art form that breaks down barriers, reaching children and families of all abilities. One such advocate for inclusivity is Rashminah Usman, an Indian mother who has consistently brought her son, Omar, to the festival. Rashminah underscores the festival’s commitment to engaging neurodivergent children through tailored activities that foster connection and creativity. For Omar, SCRF transcends traditional boundaries, allowing him to experience a world enriched by sound, touch, and imagination. Rashminah’s reflections highlight a vital aspect of the festival: the importance of creating environments where all children can thrive irrespective of their individual challenges.
Similarly, Melia, a mother to a child with Down syndrome, describes SCRF as a treasured space that promotes inclusivity and acceptance. Notably, she mentions how her daughter feels embraced through sensory workshops and interactive storytelling sessions, reinforcing the mantra, “You belong.” This strong sense of community offers not just families but individuals like AbdulRehaman, who attends with his father Amir, a place to connect across generations, thus making literature a bridge that unites rather than separates.
A Spectrum of Experiences for Every Reader
The richness of SCRF extends beyond mere books, infusing vibrant experiences that showcase the extensive creativity within the community. From pasta-making workshops to robotics demonstrations and a nostalgic exploration of retro video games, the festival creates an engaging tapestry of activities designed for various interests. In particular, Creators’ Alley has become a focal point where imagination thrives; sisters Tamara Mohammed and Rama exemplify this spirit by combining storytelling with hands-on crafts that encourage children to let their creativity flow. Such initiatives empower kids to forge meaningful connections, both with each other and the stories they inhabit.
Excitement reverberates throughout the festival, as is evident from 11-year-old Rabia Khan’s enthusiastic recounting of her visit to the Sherlock Holmes Exhibition. Young readers like Yacoub Adam thrive in spaces like the Comics Corner, where they can immerse themselves in their favorite narratives. The presence of international participants, such as Juma Annageldi from Turkmenistan, who brings an element of joy through playful ice cream tricks, contributes to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere and enhances its multicultural appeal.
Culinary Diversity and Interactive Workshops
Inclusivity is also palpable in the festival’s food courts, where a medley of flavors reflects the cultural diversity of the region. Attendees can savor everything from colorful Korean delicacies to traditional Emirati dishes, showcasing a commitment to fulfilling diverse culinary preferences. Overall, SCRF 2025 stands out not just as a literary event but as a comprehensive multisensory experience, with over 600 interactive workshops running from April 23 to May 4. It transforms the festival into an expansive playground where every child can discover their voice, indulge their curiosities, and celebrate the beauty of stories.
In conclusion, the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival emerges as a beacon of inclusivity and multicultural understanding in the Arabic literary landscape. By embracing the multifaceted nature of storytelling and fostering an environment that welcomes all abilities, SCRF exemplifies its mission to ignite the imaginations of young readers, thus promoting lifelong literacy and a love for reading.
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