To commemorate the life and career of the Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, Nehki Falastini is presenting a tribute concert at the American University in Dubai on Saturday, May 20 at 8pm.
The Palestinian-American artist Lina Makoul will be performing some of Shireen’s favourite songs as well as a dedication of her own to reminisce the journalist’s vibrant life and pioneering work in the field. Lina will be sharing the stage with Dubai-based musician Kamal Musallam who will dedicate a musical performance in memory of his former classmate Shireen.
Additionally, the talented voices of One Harmony by Tania Kassis Academy will be joining the two on stage to open the show with the UAE National Anthem and other inspiring numbers.
The evening will be hosted by celebrity news anchor Mohammad Abu Obeid who will share his experiences in the field of journalism to reflect on Shireen’s 25-year-long career with Al Jazeera.
Mayssoun Azzam, the founder of Nehki Falastini, is joining hands with Ghida Halaby, leader of the Dubai Reading Community DXBOOKLOVE, to present this concert. Mayssoun talked about Shireen Abu Akleh’s impact to set the stage for the upcoming ceremony, saying, “Shireen is no longer an ordinary name but a people’s message that she carried throughout her life, abruptly handed to us on the day she became a martyr.” She added, “Shireen gave us a voice of truth, and it is our duty to keep her legacy alive today and eternally.”
Those interested can purchase tickets to the musical tribute dedicated to Shireen Abu Akleh exclusively on Platinumlist UAE until the day of the event which will feature a Palestine-themed design souk by Balchi, Neveen ElKady, and Yasmina Adram along with food stalls and other activities.