Saudi literary agency to transform children’s book publishing

Saudi literary agency to transform children’s book publishing
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In a bid to address challenges faced by artists and creatives in Saudi Arabia, Layal Idriss, founder of Radish House Agency, has embarked on a mission to provide support, guidance, and exceptional creative services. (Supplied)
Saudi literary agency to transform children’s book publishing
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Layal Idriss, Radish House Agency founder
Saudi literary agency to transform children’s book publishing
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Layal Idriss, Radish House Agency founder
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Updated 21 November 2023
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Saudi literary agency to transform children’s book publishing

Saudi literary agency to transform children’s book publishing
  • We want to create a space where artists can connect and collaborate, while also assisting clients in obtaining high-quality creative services,” Idriss told Arab News

JEDDAH: In a bid to address challenges faced by artists and creatives in Saudi Arabia, Layal Idriss, founder of Radish House Agency, has embarked on a mission to provide support, guidance, and exceptional creative services. With a focus on the publishing industry, Idriss aims to elevate the local creative scene and contribute to the growth and development of the Saudi creative industry.

Inspired by the struggles artists face in achieving work-life balance and the need for a supportive community, Idriss, along with her husband and partner, has leveraged their own experiences to establish Radish House Agency, which aims to bridge the gap between artists and clients, offering a skilled and reliable team to meet the creative needs of clients while providing comfort and support to artists.

“We understand the pains and discomforts artists go through, and our goal is to provide them with the necessary sustenance and guidance. We want to create a space where artists can connect and collaborate, while also assisting clients in obtaining high-quality creative services,” Idriss told Arab News.




Radish House Agency aims to elevate the local creative scene and contribute to the growth and development of the Saudi creative industry. (Supplied)

One area where Radish House Agency focuses its efforts is the publishing industry, particularly the children’s book market. Idriss noted the dominance of books lacking creativity and design, and the need for locally-made books with high-quality visuals and standards. In response, the agency, in collaboration with Dar Waraqa, aims to revolutionize the Saudi and Arab children’s book market by introducing fresh ideas and exceptional talent.

She also highlighted two key ways in which the agency supports Saudi creatives in the publishing industry.

“Firstly, we brought our experience in art academia to the fingertips of artists from all over the world through our RAD Learning platform and ensured that Saudi-based artists receive support through translating content and offering mentorship opportunities,” said Idriss.

We want to create a space where artists can connect and collaborate, while also assisting clients in obtaining high-quality creative services.

Layal Idriss, Radish House Agency founder

The courses on offer include character design, children’s book writing, children’s book illustration, and more that can be explored on radishhouse.com.

“Secondly, we offer our creative services to other publishers and work with them on understanding the value of high-quality visual appeal accompanied by new and improved themes and topics that interest children and feed their imagination as well as enhance their creativity,” she continued.

When asked about upcoming projects and collaborations, Idriss expressed excitement about working with various local and international brands and organizations. Notable collaborations include the Ministry of Culture, Chalhoub Group, Penguin Random House, Dar Al-Hudhud, Zingo and Ringo, and many more. The agency’s growing list of clients signifies their commitment to delivering exceptional creative solutions.

“(The) Ministry of Culture is a great client and one of our biggest supporters. We work on so many incredible collaborations,” said Idriss.

Looking ahead, she envisions Radish House Agency playing a pivotal role in the growth and development of the Saudi creative industries. With a focus on storytelling, the agency aims to stand out by delivering unique and visionary projects.

Nouf Al-Qethami, senior brand manager at Saudi Coffee Co., said: “I was thrilled to have discovered and collaborated with Radish House Agency. Their selection of Saudi creatives and artists is unparalleled and exceptional. What sets this community apart is the invaluable guidance and mentorship provided by their experienced team.

“Working alongside Radish Agency has not only ignited my inspiration, but it has also fueled my own creative endeavors. It was incredible to be a part of such a supportive and nurturing environment that actively fosters growth and innovation.”

Idriss and her team are dedicated to aligning their services, passion, and dedication with the core values of the Saudi Vision 2030, contributing to the realization of the Kingdom’s goals.

For updates and more details, check their Instagram @radishhouseagency.

 


Saudi AI company implements 4-day working week

Saudi AI company implements 4-day working week
Updated 26 min 23 sec ago
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Saudi AI company implements 4-day working week

Saudi AI company implements 4-day working week
  • Approach maintains full salaries, aims to boost job satisfaction

MAKKAH: Lucidya, a Riyadh-based artificial intelligence and customer experience company, has become the first private entity in the Kingdom to implement a four-day working week.

The approach maintains full salaries and does not increase daily working hours. It aims to boost employee well-being, productivity and job satisfaction.

Abdullah Asiri, Lucidya’s CEO, told Arab News that the decision reflected the company’s commitment to fostering innovation and cultivating an exemplary workplace environment.

He said: “At Lucidya we have been embracing unconventional work methods since our inception in 2016.

“We were early adopters of remote working and eliminated traditional time-tracking systems. Our philosophy centers on achievement rather than hours logged. We believe productivity is not constrained by working hours but by individual achievements.”

The decision to transition to a four-day week has led to notable results, he added.

Asiri said: “We have noticed increased enthusiasm and task completion since implementing this system, with no decline in performance.

“We believe a flexible working environment fosters innovation and creativity. Our team deserves full trust and support to achieve even greater successes.”

Asiri stressed that the new work model would not affect client services, adding: “This shift will enhance our commitment to service standards and continuous support.”

The CEO revealed that the decision was facilitated by the company’s existing work culture.

“Our employees already demonstrate a high commitment to achievement, unrestricted by time or location,” he said.

He added that Lucidya’s automated productivity measurement system and focus on output-based performance created a conducive environment for the bold move.

Elaborating on Lucidya’s work philosophy, Asiri said: “We have moved beyond the need for physical presence in the office or adherence to fixed daily hours.

“What matters is the quality and quantity of work delivered, regardless of where it is done.”

Asiri looks to a workplace in which employees are self-aware, aligned with the company’s methodology, and possess a strong sense of belonging.

He said: “In such an environment, everyone becomes proactive, takes initiative, and goes the extra mile for organizational success.”

Asiri said that those who underperformed while working would do so regardless of hours or strict attendance monitoring. 

Lucidya, which employs about 150 people and operates in the AI, customer experience, and marketing technology sectors, serves major corporations and government entities across 11 countries.

Asiri shared insights on the company’s transition to a four-day working week and its initial impact, saying: “We began psychological preparation early.”

This transition, initiated in August, started with two departments, following careful observation of team stability and performance metrics.

The new schedule, which gives employees Thursday through to Saturday off, aims to provide extended weekends, especially benefiting those commuting from different cities.

Asiri said employee response had been overwhelmingly positive, and added: “Beyond the obvious elation, we have seen a surge in employee pride. They appreciate the company’s tangible efforts to create an exceptional work environment, not just empty promises.”

Addressing potential performance concerns, Asiri said that while it was too early for definitive conclusions, initial observations were promising.

He added: “We have seen no indicators of performance decline. In fact, we are noticing increased productivity in some employees.”

He attributed this to improved mental well-being, heightened morale, and employees’ appreciation of the trust placed in them.

Transparency remains a priority for Lucidya, and Asiri said: “We commit to publishing a comprehensive public report on this decision’s impact once we have sufficient data.

“When employees feel genuinely comfortable in their workplace, their dedication and output naturally increase.”


Rising star triumphs in tech competitions

Rising star triumphs in tech competitions
Updated 35 min 10 sec ago
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Rising star triumphs in tech competitions

Rising star triumphs in tech competitions
  • Success of Mariam Al-Ahmar, 23, is a rallying cry for Saudi women in tech

RIYADH: In an era where technology is shaping the Kingdom’s future, 23-year-old Mariam Al-Ahmar is emerging as an inspiration for Saudi Arabia’s young people seeking to contribute to their nation’s development.

A graduate of Prince Sattam University with a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, Al-Ahmar recently won first place in the Mediathon hackathon, a competition organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology earlier this year in May.

She also secured third place in Tamkeenthon, a health-focused competition organized by the Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities from November 2023 to January this year.

Al-Ahmar’s success story has resonated throughout Saudi Arabia, leading to appearances on prominent channels including Al-Akhbariya's "120 Minutes" and MBC's "Good Morning Arabs."

Reflecting on her experiences in the Mediathon and Tamkeenthon competitions, Al-Ahmar described her journey as “enriching” and challenging.

Trying to identify a real-world problem that needed a solution required deep introspection and creativity, she said.

Al-Ahmar told Arab News: “Presenting and articulating this issue and its remedy to the judging committee was another obstacle. However, through effective teamwork with my dedicated colleagues, we successfully navigated these challenges and triumphed.”

In an age where technology often champions individual genius, Al-Ahmar’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of collective effort and support.

“The passion for technology fueled my pursuit of software engineering,” she said. “Prince Sattam University played a pivotal role in my journey by providing me with a solid educational foundation.”

When asked about the factors that set her work apart, Al-Ahmar said: “I attribute the distinctiveness of our work to a combination of innovative problem-solving approaches, meticulous attention to detail, and a collaborative team dynamic.”

She added: “These factors, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence, set our projects apart from those of our competitors.”

She offered advice to students aspiring to follow in her footsteps. “Always remember that challenges are opportunities for growth. Embrace them wholeheartedly and work with dedication and perseverance.”

“Utilize your education as a strong foundation to tackle real-world problems creatively. Lastly, never underestimate the power of hard work, determination, and continuous learning in achieving your goals,” Al-Ahmar said.


Who’s Who: Rabah Al-Shemaisi, SG of Media and Awareness Committee at Saudi Banks

Who’s Who: Rabah Al-Shemaisi, SG of Media and Awareness Committee at Saudi Banks
Updated 5 sec ago
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Who’s Who: Rabah Al-Shemaisi, SG of Media and Awareness Committee at Saudi Banks

Who’s Who: Rabah Al-Shemaisi, SG of Media and Awareness Committee at Saudi Banks

Rabah Al-Shemaisi has been the secretary-general of the Media and Awareness Committee at Saudi Banks since 2021.

Under her leadership, the committee has made significant contributions to the banking sector.

It was established in 2006 under the guidance of the Saudi Central Bank to enhance banking culture within Saudi society.

Al-Shemaisi is the first Saudi woman to occupy the role. Her primary focus is to promote financial literacy and banking awareness across various societal sectors.

In her capacity as secretary-general, she manages the committee’s operations, organizes awareness campaigns, forges partnerships with governmental and private entities, and engages with the media on important banking topics.

Before her current role, Al-Shemaisi was director of marketing for Visa International in Saudi Arabia in 2020, breaking new ground as the first Saudi woman in the position.

During her tenure, she developed strong relationships with Saudi banks and played a crucial role in executing marketing initiatives that contributed to the brand’s growth in the region.

Al-Shemaisi’s commitment to strategic marketing and corporate communications in the banking industry has been evident throughout her career.

She previously served as marketing manager at Al-Rajhi Bank in 2019 and contributed her expertise at Banque Saudi Fransi in 2017.

Her professional journey began at Emirates NBD in 2011.

Al-Shemaisi holds a bachelor’s degree in languages and translation from King Saud University in Riyadh.


Saudi crown prince congratulates Algerian president on re-election

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Algeria’s incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. (File/SPA/AFP)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Algeria’s incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. (File/SPA/AFP)
Updated 11 September 2024
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Saudi crown prince congratulates Algerian president on re-election

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Algeria’s incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. (File/SPA/AFP)
  • Tebboune was re-elected with almost 95 percent of the vote

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated Algeria’s incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on his re-election during a phone call on Wednesday.

The crown prince wished Tebbounne success and the president thanked Prince Mohammed for his kind wishes. 

Algeria’s electoral authority ANIE announced on Sunday that Tebboune had been re-elected with almost 95 percent of the vote.

More than 5.3 million people voted for Tebboune, accounting for “94.65 percent of the vote,” ANIE head Mohamed Charfi said. 

 


Saudi Minister Adel Al-Jubeir receives new Dutch ambassador

Saudi Minister Adel Al-Jubeir receives new Dutch ambassador
Updated 5 min 5 sec ago
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Saudi Minister Adel Al-Jubeir receives new Dutch ambassador

Saudi Minister Adel Al-Jubeir receives new Dutch ambassador

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir received the recently appointed Ambassador of Netherlands to the Kingdom Hans Peter van der Woude in Riyadh on Wednesday.

During the reception, Al-Jubeir welcomed the newly appointed ambassador and wished him success in his new role, the Foreign Ministry reported on X.

Meanwhile, Chief of Staff Gen. Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili at the Saudi Ministry of Defense received Lt. Gen. Xu Xueqiang, chairman of the equipment development department of the Chinese Central Military Commission, and they reviewed bilateral relations, the Defense Ministry reported on X on Wednesday.