Exploring Cultural Harmony from the First Arab Poetry Forum in Canada

In a celebration of cultural diversity and artistic expression, the Embassy of the State #الإمارات in #كندا recently organized the “First Arab Poetry Forum in Canada” in collaboration with the University of Waterloo - Renison and the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. This groundbreaking event brought together a stellar lineup of poets from the Emirates and Canada, creating a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration. The inaugural edition of the forum was nothing short of a triumph, attracting a diverse and engaged audience.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the distinguished poets who graced the event with their presence:

Zoukan Abdel Samad
Lebanese-Canadian poet Zoukan Abdel Samad is celebrated for his ability to interweave diverse cultural narratives in his work. With an impressive 17 Arabic poetry collections and books to his name, he stands as a testament to the power of poetry to transcend borders. At the forum, Abdel Samad is set to recite one of his best poems, “Terry Fox.”

Ruba Shaban
A Palestinian poet and writer, Ruba Shaban’s journey from Damascus, Syria, to Mississauga, Canada, has infused her poetry with a unique blend of experiences. A member of the Emirates Writers Union, Shaban participated in the prestigious Prince of Poets competition in 2008. Her two poetry collections showcase her ability to capture the essence of her journey through words.
Hassan Ali Alnajjar
An accomplished Emirati poet and scholar, Hassan Ali Alnajjar holds a doctorate in Arabic Language and Literature from the University of Sharjah. His four poetry collections reflect a deep connection to the Arabic language and literature, contributing to the rich tapestry of cultural expression.
Ahmad Bourini
Journeying through education, comparative linguistics, literature, and poetry, Jordanian-Palestinian-Canadian poet Ahmad Bourini has made significant contributions to the cultural dialogue. As the chair of the Arab Canadian Forum for Cultural Dialogue, Bourini brings a unique perspective to his two acclaimed poetry collections, “Alike Things” and “She Keeps Asking.”
Mohamad Rabah
From Lebanon, Mohamad Rabah has left an indelible mark on the poetry landscape. Co-founding Poetry Nights in 2005, Rabah’s platform continues to illuminate the world of poetry with its enduring legacy. His five poetry collections showcase his talent for crafting evocative verses.
Dr. Karen Houle
A recently retired Philosophy professor from the University of Guelph, Dr. Karen Houle is not only an academic but also a poet and activist. Her three books of poetry and three books in the field of philosophy reflect a commitment to both intellectual exploration and creative expression.
Nazar Aljubury
Born in Baghdad, Iraq, in 1956, Nazar Aljubury’s poetic journey began at the tender age of 12. Holding a doctorate in Engineering, Aljubury has participated in poetry events and festivals in Iraq, across the Middle East, and in Canada, showcasing his innate talent.

Adding a musical dimension to this cultural celebration were the very talented musicians from the Maple Arts and Canadian Arabic Orchestra. Their performances complemented the poetic expressions, creating a harmonious fusion of words and music.

The “First Arab Poetry Forum in Canada” not only provided a platform for these poets to share their artistry but also facilitated a meaningful exchange of cultural narratives. It exemplified the power of poetry and the arts to bridge gaps, fostering understanding and appreciation among diverse communities. It serves as a reminder of the boundless potential for cultural collaboration and the celebration of shared humanity through the universal language of poetry.