Ghaleya AlMansoori, ZU BA Alumna of 2015 from the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises #Proud_ZUAlumni
We are thrilled to spotlight Ghaleya AlMansoori, an Emirati artist, educator, and visionary entrepreneur whose work bridges creativity, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment. A proud #Proud_ZUAlumni, Ghaleya’s journey from Zayed University to global stages exemplifies the transformative power of art and education.
A Journey of Excellence
Ghaleya’s academic foundation began at Zayed University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art (2015) with a focus on drawing and mixed media. Her thesis piece, “SHE/little/FIERCE”, earned the “Best of Show” award and was showcased at Manarat Al Saadiyat and the European Parliament’s Emirati Modern Art Exhibition in Brussels—an early testament to her talent.
Driven by a passion for art education, she pursued a Master of Arts in Art Education from the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) in 2023. Alongside her studies, Ghaleya honed her craft globally through internships in Venice, art explorations in Germany, and a fellowship with the Salama Bint Hamdan Emerging Artist Program in collaboration with RISD in New York City.
Award-Winning Innovator
Ghaleya’s artistic brilliance has earned national acclaim. In 2019, she claimed first place at the ADIHEX exhibition and was crowned top innovator in the Department of Culture & Tourism’s Innovation Accelerator program. Her work, which critiques social and cultural narratives while blending pop culture with fine art, continues to spark dialogue across borders.
Kenaz Art Studio: Art on the Move
In 2023, Ghaleya founded Kenaz Art Studio, the UAE’s first mobile art studio and a 100% Emirati-led initiative. Breaking barriers, Kenaz delivers art education to all corners of the UAE, including remote communities. The studio offers workshops in traditional crafts and contemporary arts, fostering national identity and creativity across generations.
Kenaz also serves as a platform for local artists to exhibit their work and engages youth through volunteer programs that build skills for tomorrow’s workforce. “Art is a universal language,” Ghaleya shares. “Through Kenaz, we’re ensuring every voice—and every region—is heard.”
Championing Community and Culture
For over a decade, Ghaleya has been working with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, designing educational programs for institutions like Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Her community workshops empower diverse groups, from children to seniors, proving art’s power to unite and inspire.
A Leader for Tomorrow
Recently appointed to the Abu Dhabi Youth Council (2025–2027), Ghaleya now amplifies her impact, advocating for youth-driven initiatives in culture and education. Her vision aligns with the UAE’s goals of nurturing creativity and innovation as pillars of national development.
Stay Connected
Follow Ghaleya’s journey and Kenaz Art Studio’s inspiring projects:
Join us in celebrating Ghaleya Almansoori—a ZU alumna who paints the future with passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication to her community. #Proud_ZUAlumni
*Stay tuned for more stories from our vibrant #Proud_ZUAlumni community as we continue to celebrate visionary leaders shaping the future of art and education.