DUBAI: The American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee of Michigan (ADC MI) hosted a renowned Emirati artist, Dr Samar Al Shamsi, and honoured her with the Excellence in the Arts Award at ADC Michigan’s 32nd Annual Benefit Gala last Friday, Michigan, US.

This is one of the most prestigious awards the ADC Michigan presents to distinguished artists in the area of art, music and entertainment. It is also awarded to truly dedicated and influential leaders in preserving and celebrating Arab heritage and art.

Dr Al Shamsi embodies the title of the most deserving artist of ‘Excellence in the Arts Award,’ after her artistic works were displayed at various and most important places in the world.

With this award, Dr Al Shamsi, who becomes the first Emirati female artist to receive this honour, has brought fame and reputation to the Arab world.

“ADC MI takes pride in honouring Dr Al Shamsi as a renowned artist and a rising vocal Arab woman leader,” said Imad Hamad, ADC Michigan regional director and senior national adviser.

‘Voice of hope’

He added: “Dr Al Shamsi’s contributions to art are unique and thus she is a voice of hope and empowerment to women in the UAE and the Arab World.”

“This award is the greatest honour for me,” said Dr Al Shamsi, adding, “being recognised by ADC Michigan makes me more devoted to my work in preserving human values, which have always remained a major concern in my career, and this is a self-evident matter that stems from our belief as ladies seeking extreme prospects of excellence, fame and creativity.

“This is a natural outcome of what has been instilled in us, by the UAE leadership and government, from love, devotion and respect for humanity, and keenness to uphold human values wherever found,” Dr Al Shamsi added.

She explained that what Emirati women have achieved in various fields is ample evidence of the support and motivation UAE women enjoy, to access universality with confidence and competence.

“The Excellence in the Arts Award comes as a result of a humanitarian principle we follow, and in honour of Arab and international efforts we made. The award is a source of pride to me as an Emirati artist who reaped the fruits of balanced, effective and meaningful art, as well as to each Emirati woman whose ambition is to uphold human values with excellence, creativity and innovation.”