Decades ago, Amna Khalifa Al Qemzi embarked on a remarkable journey in agriculture, igniting a passion that would lead her to become the UAE’s first female farmer. Her story, rooted in determination and innovation, recently earned her the prestigious Abu Dhabi Award, bestowed upon her by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in recognition of her outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
Al Qemzi’s remarkable journey began with a humble gesture: she sent nine baskets filled with homegrown vegetables and fruits to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the visionary founding father of the UAE. Recognizing her talent and dedication, Sheikh Zayed graciously provided her with a farm to nurture her agricultural ambitions, thus setting the stage for her pioneering work in organic farming.
Today, Al Qemzi stands as a beacon of inspiration in the realm of organic agriculture, cultivating a diverse array of crops ranging from tomatoes and grapes to figs and watermelon. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability is evident in her cultivation practices, which extend beyond traditional seasonal planting to include year-round crop cultivation.
Reflecting on her early beginnings, Al Qemzi fondly recalls the support and encouragement she received from the late Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan, under whose reign she first discovered her passion for agriculture. Her journey from cultivating watermelon seeds in her family’s yard to overseeing a thriving farm underscores her resilience and determination to succeed against all odds.
In a heartfelt message captured in a video by the Abu Dhabi Awards, Al Qemzi extends her encouragement to individuals of all backgrounds, urging them to embrace farming as a source of joy and fulfillment. Her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and dedication in pursuing one’s dreams.
Acknowledging her remarkable contributions, Ibrahim Al Hashmi, executive manager of the Sultan bin Ali Al Owais Culture Foundation, hails Al Qemzi as a symbol of history, authenticity, and generosity. He lauds her pioneering spirit and self-initiative, emphasizing her role as a trailblazer and a source of inspiration for future generations.
Al Qemzi’s impact extends far beyond her own endeavors, serving as a catalyst for innovation and empowerment within the agricultural community of the UAE. Saeed Al Remeithi, co-founder of The Organic Farm, pays tribute to her pioneering efforts in introducing diverse seeds from around the world, breaking conventional norms, and inspiring a new generation of farmers to embrace innovation and creativity.
As the UAE celebrates the legacy of Amna Khalifa Al Qemzi, her journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
