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RIYADH: Mohammed bin Fahd Al-Harthi, CEO of the Saudi Broadcasting Authority and president of the Saudi Media Forum, was recently honored with the 2025 Gratitude Award for Inspiring Leaders.

Presented by the Princess Sita bint Abdulaziz Foundation for Excellence in Social Work, the award celebrates those whose vision and dedication have had a profound impact on their communities.

Commenting on the honor, Al-Harthi stated: “Giving is an intrinsic part of the Saudi identity, deeply rooted in a generous homeland and inspiring leadership.

“I am one of this nation’s people striving to serve it with all we have. We will continue to work tirelessly for as long as we live because our country deserves nothing less.

“Each of us has unique tools within our fields that must be dedicated to serving the nation, society, and humanity.”

Al-Harthi has built a distinguished career across print, broadcast, and digital media, earning both regional and international awards in recognition of his creativity and achievements in the media landscape.

He has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives and launched major media projects, held leadership roles in prominent local and global media organizations, and contributed to organizing events and festivals that have significantly elevated the status of Saudi media both regionally and internationally.

The award underscores Al-Harthi’s dedication to serving society and inspiring a new generation of media professionals.
 

JEDDAH: ��������’s Visual Arts Commission has launched its “Art Bridges” initiative for 2025–2026, a series of international programs designed to promote cultural exchange.

The programs will be hosted in Scotland, Japan, South Korea and Spain.

The first in Scotland will be held from Sept. 22 to 27, in partnership with the British Council Scotland.

Japan will host an event from Oct. 31 to Nov. 7, followed by South Korea from Nov. 19 to 27, and Spain from March 2 to 9, 2026.

Dina Amin, CEO of the Visual Arts Commission, said in a statement that the initiative offers a unique opportunity for cultural practitioners to share their creative voices with the world.

Each edition of “Art Bridges” will be tailored to the host destination.

There will be meetings with thought leaders, visits to major cultural institutions, museums, galleries and artist studios, as well as workshops, knowledge-exchange sessions, and discussions with prominent local art figures.

The 2025–2026 programs will explore specific themes, with Japan focusing on art and the environment by examining how artists interact with natural, urban and traditional settings.

South Korea’s program will address identity through art and society by studying community cultural movements, independent artist spaces and collaborative platforms.

In Spain, the program will highlight heritage and collaborative practice by showcasing the intersection of shared artistic expression, and social purpose in cultural spaces.

The application window for those wishing to participate opens on Aug. 13. The deadline for Japan is Aug. 21, while South Korea and Spain close on Aug. 31.

Applicants must be over 21, have at least five years of professional experience, submit a strong portfolio, be fluent in English and commit to the full program schedule.

The commission stated that “Art Bridges” forms a cornerstone of its strategy to expand ��������’s cultural presence globally, build sustainable creative ecosystems, and forge long-term international partnerships.