BHD 686,000 Raised for Charity at Sovereign Art Award Ceremony Under HH Shaikh Nasser’s Patronage

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, reaffirmed the enduring and generous support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, for humanitarian and charitable initiatives both within the Kingdom and abroad. He noted that this commitment reflects His Majesty’s vision of ensuring a dignified and secure life for orphans, widows, and those in need.

HH Shaikh Nasser made the remarks during the closing ceremony of the fifth edition of the Sovereign Art Foundation Student Prize, held at the Four Seasons Hotel and organised by the Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) in collaboration with the Sovereign Art Foundation. The event featured an auction of winning artworks created by participating students.

HH Shaikh Nasser praised the efforts of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in prioritising humanitarian and social projects within the government’s agenda. He also highlighted the Royal Humanitarian Foundation’s ongoing mission to realise His Majesty the King’s vision by embedding a culture of giving and ensuring the sustainability of charitable work in Bahrain and the wider Arab region.

He stressed that such initiatives enhance community engagement and foster a culture of charity and volunteerism among students, encouraging them to contribute meaningfully to society through purposeful art. He also commended the students' artworks, which reflected their deep love for Bahrain and desire to promote volunteering and contribute to charitable efforts. The Foundation, he said, remains committed to nurturing and developing young talent across all fields.

HH Shaikh Nasser expressed appreciation for the collaboration between the Sovereign Art Foundation, the Ministry of Education, and public and private schools and universities across Bahrain, whose students played a key role in the success of the award. He honoured the platinum sponsors of the event—Arabian Gulf University and the University College of Bahrain—along with gold and silver sponsors and those who participated in the art auction.

RHF Secretary-General Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Al Khalifa lauded HH Shaikh Nasser’s unwavering support for the Foundation’s programmes and initiatives. He also revealed that HH Shaikh Nasser had donated a personal artwork from his early school years at Ibn Khuldoon School to the Foundation’s first charity art exhibition, highlighting his long-standing belief in the transformative power of art.

Shaikh Ali praised the students’ creative contributions, saying, “These moments beautifully merged the spirit of art with a passion for discovery and a deep sense of national belonging. Bahrain is truly a land of generosity and talent, nurtured by wise leadership that believes in giving and excellence.”

He extended his thanks to all who contributed to the success of the exhibition and charity auction, including participants, organisers, and the Sovereign Art Foundation for championing this noble cause.

During the ceremony, Mr. Howard Bilton, Chairman of the Sovereign Group, expressed his delight in the ongoing partnership with RHF and commended HH Shaikh Nasser for his support of young artists and his patronage of the award.

Student Janna Mahmoud Magdy also shared her personal story during the event, recounting her experience with type 1 diabetes and how an insulin pump—provided through RHF’s support—allowed her to lead a normal life.

The evening concluded with a public auction of the winning entries from five student categories, along with a People’s Choice Award painting. The auction raised approximately BHD 686,210, with all proceeds going toward RHF’s educational and healthcare initiatives.

The Sovereign Art Foundation also recognised the winners of this year’s competition:

• Raghad Al Khateeb, Choueifat International School (Category 1)

• Hoor Muaid Abduljaleel, Gifted Students Care Centre (Category 2)

• Aina Shahid, Al Noor International School (Category 3)

• Sophia Noor, British School of Bahrain (Category 4)

• Yasser Saeed, University of Bahrain (Category 5)

• Shaikha Ahmed Al Khalifa, Shaikha Hessa Girls’ School (People’s Choice Award)