Qatar Charity UK (QCUK) was a title sponsor of Arab Women of the Year  2016, which honoured high achievers across a wide range of categories, including business, leadership, law, media, science, education, music, art and sport.
The award for Achievement in Art went to severely disabled Iraqi artist Jannat Aljumily.
The 16-year-old was born with severe scoliosis, a curvature of the spine to one side, leaving her unable to use any part of her body apart from her foot.
She started drawing at the age of five when her sister placed a pencil between her toes and since then she has gone on to produce numerous paintings of her war-ravaged homeland that tell a story of destruction and loss.    
Speaking to Gulf Times at the awards evening held at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower hotel in Knightsbridge, QCUK’s deputy director-general Fadi Itani said: “Jannat’s story is one of strength, perseverance and sheer determination and her art depicting the horrors of war is profoundly moving. She is truly an inspiration to us all.
“We want to encourage as many people as possible to find their passions just as Jannat has done and make a difference to society. We are extremely proud to be supporting these awards.”
Supported by the Mayor of London, the Arab Women of the Year Awards 2016 was organised by London Arabia magazine, in partnership with Regent’s University London, London & Partners, the Arab British Business Association, Jumeirah Carlton, JLL, Y Asset Management, QCUK, Miller Harris, Bicester Village and Watches of Switzerland.
Itani observed that Arab women have made giant steps in a number of fields, including literature, art, music and business and stressed the significant role of women in economic development, business, politics and the arts.
“The progress of society is closely related to women’s ability to thrive in the face of adversity and we have all been touched by the incredible spirit and drive of the women here tonight.
“These women are perfect role models and their successes will go a long way towards helping guide others to find their own path in life. At QCUK, we encourage people to push boundaries, seize opportunities and ultimately play a leading role in their communities,” he said.
The awards ceremony was attended by Gulf royalty, diplomats, British MPs and peers and leading members of the business community.
A Special Award was made to Late Ameera BinKaram, who tragically lost her life along with her mother and sister in October this year. BinKaram, in her roles as vice-chairperson of NAMA Women Advancement Establishment and chairperson of the Sharjah Business Women’s Council, was a strong advocate for the economic, social and professional empowerment of Arab women.
The award was accepted on her behalf by the UAE ambassador to the UK, Sulaiman Hamid Almazroui.
He said that he was honoured to do so and paid tribute to her many achievements and the inspiration and support she had given to so many during her lifetime.
David Stringer-Lamarre, chairman of Institute of Directors, City of London, commented:  “There is a great deal of success among women business leaders in the Gulf region, which helps us engage commercially. A lot of bridges are being built. The achievements in culture, art and fashion are also very impressive. Events like this open eyes and ears.”
Mayssoun Habra, CEO of Y Asset Management said: “We need to shed light on the talent of Arab women around the world. They should be celebrated and supported for their achievements in many aspects of life. It is not just those in the public eye but those involved in the legal profession, charitable sector and community service that deserve recognition.”
Winner of the TV Presenter Award, Eman Ayad, widely recognised throughout the Arab world for her nearly two decades as principal news and programme presenter with the Al Jazeera Network based in Doha, said she longed for the day when peace replaced conflict.
“I look forward to the day when I can report on an Arab world filled with peace, unity and progress,” she said.