QIMAM awardees share their transformative experience as at IFLA WLIC 2025

Following the IFLA WLIC 2025 Congress, the QIMAM awardees reflect on their experiences and share key insights gained from their participation.

Raghad Ghanem Alqahtani of Saudi Arabia and Salma Mohamed Ayoub of Egypt were named the first recipients of the QIMAM: Qatar–IFLA MENA Award for Aspiring Minds, presented by Qatar National Library (QNL), home to the IFLA Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Office.

The award celebrates emerging leaders for their professional contributions and leadership potential, while fostering the empowerment and integration of young Arab talents into the global library community.

Raghad Ghanem Alqahtani – Saudi Arabia

Among the first recipients, Al-Qahtani, and in reflecting on her WLIC journey, shared: “It is not only words that unite us, but a shared passion for libraries. The QIMAM Award gave me the privilege of representing our region at IFLA WLIC 2025. It was more than an individual achievement; it was about carrying the aspirations of our Arab library community to the global stage.

Participating in the Congress was a human and professional experience that left a lasting mark on Al-Qahtani’s career. “We had the opportunity to share our stories with an international audience, reaffirming that libraries, even in the age of artificial intelligence, remain human-centered spaces that embrace everyone.”

Al-Qahtani highlighted the professional and personal growth she gained from the experience particularly in terms of amplifying the voice of Arab libraries globally. The award, she said, enabled her to forge valuable international connections with fellow professionals united by a shared passion for libraries. “Through discussions, exhibitions, and on-site visits to Astana’s libraries, I gained insights into the mission of libraries as institutions that unite the world and inspire future generations.”

The most memorable aspect of her experience, Al-Qahtani noted, was engaging in conversations with peers from around the globe. “These dialogues transcended language barriers because our passion for libraries was a universal language that create genuine human connections.” Investing in empowering library professionals is the key to building a brighter future, Al-Qahtani concluded.

Salma Mohamed Ayoub – Egypt

As the second recipient of the QIMAM,  Salma Ayoub Mohamed, Manager of Database and Systems Administration at Misr University for Science and Technology, participated in the IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) 2025 in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Reflecting on her experience, Ayoub said: “The QIMAM Award was more than a professional milestone; it was an exceptional experience that enriched my journey intellectually, professionally, and personally. One of the most meaningful moments was attending the Arabic Caucus, organized by Qatar National Library, where I shared my story and professional achievements with colleagues from across the Arab world. I also joined the Ignite Talks session, a vibrant and inspiring platform that brought together participants from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.”

She added: “Through several interactive sessions and workshops, I explored critical topics such as the use of artificial intelligence in library services, leadership skills, and professional coaching. The Coaching session, in particular, helped me reflect on my career aspirations and broaden my vision. Field visits to academic and specialized libraries provided further inspiration, showcasing how libraries empower students and researchers, and promote social justice especially for people with special needs.”

Looking back, Ayoub emphasized: “I am truly grateful for the opportunity provided by Qatar National Library in its capacity as the IFLA Regional Office. It was a pivotal experience that strengthened my conviction in the humanistic and transformative role that libraries play in building just and sustainable societies.”