Today's Edition
Khaled Al Khawaldeh (Abu Dhabi)
Aldhabi AlMheiri, the world's youngest newspaper columnist, according to the Guinness World Records, stole the show at the Global Media Congress on Wednesday, where members of the press and Sheikh Abdulla Bin Mohamed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office, joined in celebrating her remarkable achievement.
At just 10 years and 99 days, AlMheiri's columns which she wrote for the Aletihad Newspaper in both Arabic and English have garnered her acclaim as a prominent young talent in the media industry.
"I'm extremely proud to be represented as the youngest newspaper columnist by Guinness World Records in appreciation withAletihad newspaper," she told Aletihad on the sidelines of the congress at the ADNEC Centre.
“I would like to thank Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her support to children and encouraging everyone around her. I would also like to thank Dr. Hamad Al Kaabi [Chief Aletihad News Center Officer] for all of his support and giving me a chance to be here today.”
Despite her young age, AlMheiri does not shy away from serious topics, with her columns addressing pressing issues including financial literacy, sustainable finance, inclusive education for children of determination, the role of young entrepreneurs in the UAE's future, and the impact of artificial intelligence on children.
AlMheiri tackles these issues with nuance and depth, often seeking solutions and considering multiple viewpoints.
For example, in her column on AI, she highlights both the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence, particularly concerning children's safety. She then goes further, advocating for clear regulations and guidelines to ensure the responsible and safe use of the technology.
In her other commentary, AlMheiri calls for equal educational opportunities for all children, including children of determination, arguing for flexible learning approaches tailored to their individual needs.
She also encouraged young entrepreneurs to actively contribute to shaping the nation's future.
Dr. Al-Kaabi praised the significant role played by Dhabi AlMheiri's family in nurturing her talent, emphasising that the collaboration between various educational, academic and media institutions yields positive outcomes for future generations.
"Talent always exists, but it requires a nurturing environment to flourish. The UAE serves as an exceptional model and a natural incubator that fosters creativity and develops skills," Dr. Al-Kaabi said.
He affirmed Aletihad's commitment to supporting writers, children and literature, pointing out that this support stems from a deep belief in the importance of knowledge and its pivotal role in building a sustainable future for upcoming generations.
"Aletihad's role in empowering national talent reflects an important national commitment to future generations," he added.
AlMheiri's parents, present at the congress on Wednesday, expressed immense pride in her exceptional accomplishments, noting her passion for reading and her hunger for knowledge from a young age.
They said that they hoped to see their daughter serve as an inspiration to her peers and that her achievements would contribute to her country's success.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Butti honoured Dhabi AlMheiri during his visit to the Abu Dhabi Media Pavilion, recognising her as one of the most prominent young people contributing to the global media landscape.
He stressed the need to invest in the potential of youth, nurture gifted individuals in media, and provide continuous training to spread their skills across diverse media formats.
He commended Aletihad News Centre for supporting young Emirati talents, enabling their active participation in content creation aligned with ambitions to build cohesive and aspirational communities.
At just 10 years old, Aldhabi AlMheiri has established herself as a columnist, entrepreneur and publisher, founding the Rainbow Chimney Bookstore and Publishing House.
She is dedicated to empowering children globally and promoting cultural diversity through her writing, and is poised to become a household name in the media in the future.
