Sharjah24: American University of Sharjah (AUS) hosted an unforgettable benefit suhoor inspired by the timeless legacy of the Silk Road, uniting culture, commerce and compassion in an evening dedicated to expanding educational opportunities for students in need. Held under the patronage and in the presence of Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, the event, themed “The Silk Road: A Journey of Giving and Connection,” brought together thought leaders, artists, philanthropists and the wider AUS community in a celebration of generosity—raising more than AED 2 million to support scholarships for students with disabilities, those facing financial and social challenges and students from underserved backgrounds.
Sheikha Bodour said: “Education is a personal journey but a shared responsibility. At AUS, we believe that when we invest in students, we invest in the future of individuals, economies and societies. Tonight’s gathering expresses the beneficial power of collective giving. We believe knowledge should never be limited by financial barriers, but should be a force that unites, uplifts and empowers us all. This is AUS’ driving mission, and it’s one we’re honored to share with our community.”
Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, underscored the evening’s theme of connection and opportunity, drawing parallels between the Silk Road’s spirit of exchange and the university’s mission to ensure education is within reach for all students.
“Much like the Silk Road once connected people and ideas across borders, education serves as the bridge to opportunity and progress. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that every capable student, regardless of their circumstances, can cross that bridge. This evening is a reflection of our community’s commitment to opening those pathways and supporting every student on their journey toward a better future,” he said.
The suhoor featured opening remarks by Dr. Justin Stearns, Professor of Arab Crossroads Studies at New York University Abu Dhabi followed by the panel discussion “The Business Legacy of the Silk Road: Trade, Innovation and Giving,” moderated by His Excellency Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Executive Chairman of the Department of Government Relations. The panel brought together leading voices from the region and beyond, including Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, an AUS alumna and former UAE Minister of State for Tolerance, Minister of Economy, Minister of Foreign Trade and Minister of International Cooperation and Development; Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, Founder and Chairman of the Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Organization; and Mishal Kanoo, an AUS alumnus and Chairman of Kanoo Group. The discussion bridged the ancient past and modern present, exploring how the Silk Road’s spirit of collaboration continues to shape trade, innovation and knowledge-sharing today.
The suhoor also celebrated artistic expression, featuring performances from artists from the newly launched AUS Artist-in-Residence program, which supports creatives from around the world in developing their work and engaging with the university community. Dr. Afra Atiq, a poet and scholar, performed a multilingual piece reflecting on themes of generosity and human connection. Dr. Najat Makki, a visual artist, unveiled a custom artwork inspired by the cultural exchanges along the Silk Road and the transformative power of education. Fatima Al Hashmi, an opera singer and artist, offered a musical performance blending Eastern and Western influences, echoing the spirit of unity at the heart of the Silk Road’s history.
The evening was further enriched by an uplifting musical performance led by two exceptional musicians—Dr. Albert Agha, Assistant Professor of Music and Coordinator of the Performing Arts Program at AUS and musician, and Sama Al Taei, an AUS alumna and artist. Accompanied by the Arabic Orchestra, their melodies eloquently embodied the spirit of hope, connection and the transformative power of education.
The evening also showcased a video tribute to AUS’ Commemorative Bench Initiative, which raised AED 700,000 during Giving Day, reflecting on the lasting impact this support will have on students’ lives.
To amplify the evening’s impact, the suhoor featured Bidding for a Brighter Future, a live auction dedicated to supporting AUS scholarships. The auction presented an exclusive collection of items, including Untitled, a striking artwork donated by renowned artist Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim; Nuray, a handcrafted rug generously contributed by Jaipur Rugs; the Serti Sur Vide necklace, an exquisite rose gold piece donated by Repossi to support students with disabilities; an AUS gold bar returned to the university by Bedour Al Raqbani, an alumna and member of the AUS Board of Trustees; another AUS gold bar donated back by Her Excellency Najla Al Midfa, Vice-Chairperson at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa); Cultural Dialogues, a captivating art piece by Dr. Najat Makki; and an art piece contributed on the spot by Emirati artist Faezeh Mohammed Hassan. The auction also featured two exclusive Sharjah car plate numbers, donated by Sharjah Police Headquarters and facilitated by Emirates Auction. Each bid will help directly transform lives through education, embodying the evening’s spirit of generosity and shared commitment to impact.
The evening also featured a captivating carpet exhibition by Jaipur Rugs, with 20 percent of the proceeds dedicated to supporting scholarships. Feel Good Tea hosted an interactive session on brewing the perfect cup of tea and offered exclusive, curated tea packages, generously allocating 50 percent of the proceeds to scholarships—further reinforcing the spirit of giving and community impact. Guests were also invited to savor the premium taste of Maknoon’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a culinary treasure of the finest quality. For every bottle sold, 25 percent of the proceeds were directed toward scholarships, ensuring that students in need have access to education.
Alef Group stood out as the sponsor for the evening, with valued support from Beeah, Crescent Enterprises, Sharjah Islamic Bank, Invest Bank, Invest in Sharjah, Bank of Sharjah, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority and Rentech—champions of education whose contributions will help expand scholarship opportunities for AUS students. Topaz also participated as a contributor.
Issa Ataya, Chief Executive Officer of Alef Group, said: “Education is a cornerstone of sustainable development, shaping future communities and driving economic resilience. At Alef Group, we are committed to supporting initiatives that foster knowledge, innovation, and long-term growth. Our partnership with AUS reflects this vision; ensuring that future generations have access to world-class education and opportunities that create lasting impact”.
“The AUS Benefit Suhoor 2025, under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, highlights the power of collaboration in advancing education and community development. This year’s theme, “The Silk Road: A Journey of Giving and Connection,” underscores the values of cultural exchange, progress and shared prosperity—principles that align with our vision. We are pleased to be part of this gathering, reinforcing our commitment to shaping dynamic, future-ready communities,” added Ataya.
Reem Bardan, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at AUS, reflected on the success of the evening, emphasizing the importance of partnership in advancing the university’s mission.
“The AUS Benefit Suhoor was a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared belief in education. Each contribution made will open doors for students who deserve a chance to dream, excel and lead,” she said.
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