Egyptian actress Elham Shaheen extended heartfelt congratulations too fellow actress Mona Zaki following Zaki’s recent honor at the prestigious Red Sea Film Festival.
Shaheen took to Instagram to share a picture of herself with Zaki and Zaki’s husband, renowned actor Ahmed Helmy. Accompanying the photo was a warm message praising Zaki’s achievements. “Congratulations to my beloved, the wonderful artist Mona Zaki, for being honored at the Red Sea Festival in Jeddah…a very well-deserved honor…you honored the name of Egyptian cinema and art in the Arab world,” Shaheen wrote. “All of it… I love you, your art, and your wonderful choices for your roles… Bravo, Mammouna.”
The opening ceremony of the Red Sea Film festival’s fourth edition, held on Thursday evening in Jeddah, was a star-studded affair, drawing a constellation of prominent actors and filmmakers from across the globe.
Among the notable attendees were Hassan Al-Raddad, Amy Samir ghanem, Bushra, Amina Khalil, Arwa Gouda, amir Al-Masry, taha Desouky, dhafer Al-Abidin, Yousra Al-Lawzi, Nadia Al-Jundi, director Abu Bakr Shawqi, Ahmed Helmy, Mona Zaki, director Mohamed Sami, May Omar, international star Michael Douglas and his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Spanish actress and model Georgina Rodriguez, Will Smith, Michelle Yeoh, Vin Diesel, Yousra, yasmine Sabry, Kareena Kapoor, and aamir Khan.
The Red Sea International Film Festival serves as a platform to celebrate the finest productions in Arab and international cinema, taking place in the vibrant city of Jeddah. the festival’s diverse cinematic program encompasses a wide range of films, from restored cinematic treasures showcased with cutting-edge technology to works by promising new talents.
“Congratulations to my beloved, the wonderful artist Mona Zaki, for being honored at the Red Sea Festival in Jeddah…a very well-deserved honor…you honored the name of Egyptian cinema and art in the Arab world,” Shaheen wrote. “All of it… I love you, your art, and your wonderful choices for your roles…Bravo, mammouna.”
in addition to film screenings, the festival hosts an impressive lineup of artistic talents, filmmakers, and industry professionals from the Arab world and beyond. It also features various film competitions in both long and short categories, alongside concerts, seminars, and workshops aimed at nurturing and empowering emerging talent.
The fourth edition of the Red Sea Film Festival is currently underway, running from December 5 to 14, 2024.
## “A Sisterhood of Success”: Elham Shaheen on Mona Zaki’s Red sea Film Festival Triumph
**World today News Exclusive Interview**
**Cairo, Egypt** – Following Mona Zaki’s recent triumph at the Red Sea Film Festival, fellow Egyptian actress Elham Shaheen took to social media to express her heartfelt congratulations. World Today News sat down with Shaheen to discuss her admiration for Zaki, the significance of the award, and the importance of female solidarity in the film industry.
**WTN:** Ms. Shaheen, your recent Instagram post celebrating Mona Zaki’s achievement at the Red Sea Film Festival resonated deeply with many. What made you feel compelled to share your congratulations so publicly?
**Elham Shaheen:** Mona is not just a colleague; she’s a dear friend and a truly remarkable woman. Her talent and dedication are undeniable, and this honor from the Red Sea film Festival is a well-deserved recognition of her astonishing career. I wanted to publicly celebrate her success because it’s a moment of pride not only for Mona but for all Egyptian actresses.
**WTN:** The Red Sea Film Festival has quickly gained international recognition for its commitment to showcasing Arab cinema. What does this award signify for Mona Zaki and for Egyptian cinema as a whole?
**ES:** This award represents a significant milestone for Mona and for Egyptian cinema on the global stage. The Red Sea Film Festival is a platform that amplifies Arab voices and stories, and for Mona to be recognized there is a testament to her talent and the quality of Egyptian filmmaking. It’s a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers across the Arab world.
**WTN:** You and Mona Zaki have both had long and illustrious careers in Egyptian cinema. What advice would you give to aspiring young actresses who are just starting out?
**ES:** My advice is simple: work hard, stay true to yourself, beleive in your dreams, and support each other. The film industry can be challenging,but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Surround yourself with talented people, be open to learning, and never stop pushing yourself creatively. And most importantly, remember that there’s strength in sisterhood. We need to lift each other up and celebrate each other’s successes.
**WTN:** Thank you for sharing your insights,Ms. Shaheen. Your words of encouragement and support for Mona Zaki are truly inspiring.
**ES:** It was my pleasure. I believe in the power of female solidarity in our industry, and celebrating each other’s achievements is essential for our collective progress.
This interview provides a deeper insight into Elham Shaheen’s perspective on Mona Zaki’s accomplishment and highlights the importance of female representation and support in the film industry. It also emphasizes the significance of the Red Sea Film Festival for promoting Arab cinema globally.
