Culture, Creativity & Sports Award Judges

Antonia Carver

Director Art Jameel

Antonia Carver is Director of Art Jameel, leading its arts, cinema, learning, and research programmes, including Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai and Hayy Jameel in Jeddah. Before joining Art Jameel in 2016, she was Director of Art Dubai and held editorial and programming roles at Bidoun and the Dubai International Film Festival. A writer, editor, curator, and advisor on Middle Eastern art and film, she holds an MA from the University of Edinburgh.

Professor Phil Manning

Director of Science (NHMAD Deputy Director), Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi

Phil is Director of Science (NHMAD Deputy Director) at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Chair of Natural History at the University of Manchester. With over 35 years’ experience, he works across museums and academia, focusing on interdisciplinary science, public engagement, and museum development. A Fellow of several learned societies, he is also a science communicator, author, and presenter of documentaries for National Geographic, BBC, and others.

Nickie Aiken

British Embassy in the United Arab Emirates

Nickie Aiken is Head of Communications at the British Embassy in the United Arab Emirates, leading strategic communications, media engagement and public diplomacy at one of the UK’s key overseas posts. She has a background in government, politics and international affairs, with experience in narrative shaping, reputational risk and campaign delivery. She works with senior diplomats and ministers to advance UK priorities in the UAE, overseeing high-level visits and bilateral engagement.

Noor Al Suwaidi

Artist

Noor Al Suwaidi is an artist and curator whose practice spans over two decades, known for abstract and figurative works exploring emotion, memory, and colour. She has exhibited internationally, including a 2024 solo show in New York. Founder of Bint Ghanem Art Advisory, she provides curatorial and cultural advisory services. She has contributed to the UAE cultural scene, including VIP relations at Abu Dhabi Art, and holds degrees from Kingston University and American University.