August 26, 2023
Manal Amin

I have always been passionate about reading since my early childhood. Once I start a new book or a magazine I get hooked up till the last page. Together with my beloved dad, we were  regular visitors to book fairs and libraries, moreover, he allowed me to use his personal library. He always encouraged me to read daily, even if it was just a few words or few pages. I fell in love with translation because of its direct relationship with books and knowledge, and it became my passion and lifetime profession.

In 1994 I founded Arabize, and Arabic/languages became the mission of my life.

Along the journey, Arabize book club “Meen Bye2ra Eh” was created to spread the love of reading among our employees, thanks to my dear friend, the late Loubna Zeitoun, our club gathered a profound bunch of writers and readers.

The idea of creating a cultural platform to showcase books, news and literature often crossed my mind. I have studied the project repeatedly, but never started implementing it. The idea of establishing a bookstore with a reading corner and  cultural salon also intrigued me, but unfortunately that idea has not see the light. Ideas are abundant, but they need someone to nurture them and launch them with love and passion. 

A recent talk to an old colleague speaking about his dreams for an Arabic book portal, I realized the similarities in our aspirations and visions. This was Ahmed Salah Al-din a Russian literature translator and writer.

We discussed the project, and he shared many ideas that resonated with my own beliefs and passion for enriching Arabic content. Our ideas aligned, and I found in Ahmed the right person; someone who shares my enthusiasm. We discussed extensively the idea that evolved and took different forms. I decided to embrace the idea and revive my old dream. Thus, Schehrezade Initiative was born, a narrative initiative that takes us to the magical world of stories.

Schehrezade initiative is a unique concept, unlike any other. It is a platform to create magical stories; written, audio, and visual narratives. These stories encompass literature, art, and knowledge, aiming to enrich Arabic content on the internet and present knowledge in a simplified and enjoyable manner, with different messages.

The first phase of Schehrezade, that was launched end of last July, was a platform for publishing articles in a narrative style that appeals to a wide range of readers in various fields.

In the second phase Schehrezade will provide audio and video stories fulfilling the needs of various types readers,  making reading easier and more enjoyable.

Finally, at a later stage, we plan to work on achieving the ultimate goal of this initiative,  which is for Scheherazade to provide readers with more Arabic content in many languages ​​covering all aspects of life. 

Enjoy with us now and stay tuned for more.

Visite Schehrezade page here

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