ALSERKAL ADVISORY
As director of Alserkal Advisory, Fiza is responsible for conceptualising, developing, and leading global, local, and regional projects across the arts and culture sector. Over the past decade, she has played a pivotal role in establishing the Advisory as a leading cultural strategist and producer in the region. She has been instrumental in projects working closely with Dubai Culture, the Ministry of Culture in Saudi Arabia, ICD Brookfield Place, and Expo 2020 among others.
With more than a decade of experience in events in the middle east, Libby is a successful and industrious project coordinator that is driven to find high quality solutions for all production requirements. Having started a Dubai-based production company in late 2013, Libby developed her confident and sensitive interpersonal skill set through executing professional productions across the Dubai theatre scene.
As the Advisory Curator, Sarah works closely with clients to craft tailored solutions that align with strategic outcomes, blending creative conceptualization and practical execution. With expertise in museum programming, residencies, and conferences, she ensures strategic alignment and regional representation. She holds an MA in Curating Contemporary Art from the Royal College of Art and a BA in Economics and Theatre from NYU Abu Dhabi.
As programmes executive at Alserkal Advisory, Maha designs creative programmes and events that blend cultural insights with strategic development. Her multidisciplinary approach flows from her expertise in anthropology, critical theory, and contemporary art. Before joining the Advisory, Maha contributed to the UAE National Pavilion at La Biennale di Venezia and the Weisman Art Museum. She holds degrees in Political Science from Beloit College and Studio Art from University of Minnesota
With a focus on cultural strategy, Reem works with government clients to develop tailored solutions that align with their specific needs. Trained as an anthropologist, her expertise lies in researching and analysing cities, spaces, and societies across the MENA region. In her previous roles, she gained experience in arts and film programming. Reem holds an MA in Migration & Diasporas from SOAS and a BA in Politics & International Relations from Queen Mary, University of London.
Praveenkumar leads operations, overseeing the management and delivery of events, exhibitions, and commissions. He is responsible for logistics, supplier sourcing, permits, and ensuring flawless execution across diverse projects. With a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from Anna University, he excels in coordinating complex tasks and ensuring that projects are completed on time and to the highest standard.
Fathima Syed supports operations by handling logistics and financial tasks, ensuring smooth execution across projects. With a strong foundation in commerce, she is an essential part of the team. Fathima holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (B.Com) and is currently pursuing the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) qualification.
In her role as project manager, Shilpa Alakkal manages all aspects of event delivery ensuring excellence, from operations and logistics to budgeting and production. With over a decade of experience and a Master’s in Events & Exhibition Management from Birmingham City University, she has successfully executed several events, including key projects for ADNOC, HIPA, and EXPO 2020 Dubai, such as the Global Business Forum and International Women’s Day Forum.
Nikoo is a seasoned culture and arts manager specialising in project management and public art commissions. With over a decade of experience, she has held key roles at Alserkal Arts Foundation, Meem Gallery, and The Third Line in Dubai, where she co-led the development of 20 exhibitions and participated in 17 international and regional art fairs. Nikoo holds a BA in Fine Arts from Central Saint Martins, London.
Athija contributes to the delivery of client programming, with a particular focus on content and project planning. She has experience managing artist residencies, research grants, and public programs through her roles at the Alserkal Arts Foundation and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Athija holds a BA in International Studies from the American University in Dubai and an MA in International Relations from the University of Sussex.
Ali is a research associate who contributes to programme writing for major conferences. With a background in the social sciences and culture, he applies a broad range of thinking to his research, drawing on his expertise in sociology to inform cultural projects. Ali holds an HBA with a double major in Sociology and Communication, Culture, Information & Technology from the University of Toronto, as well as an MA from the University of Chicago.
Alserkal Initiatives
Vilma joined Alserkal in 2012 and has been instrumental in the evolution and growth of Alserkal and its initiatives, including Alserkal Avenue, Alserkal Arts Foundation, and Alserkal Advisory.
Kevin was instrumental in strategising and articulating the Alserkal brand. As part of his brand strategy responsibilities, he created a content strategy for the brand and curatorial guidance for programming.
Extended Team
Aquamarina is a Cultural Strategist and Advisor with 12 years’ experience in the cultural sector. She led the development of public programmes, interdisciplinary artistic commissions, artist residencies, and the strategic development of new cultural organisations and initiatives in the Middle East.
Roxani is a Project Manager for the Global Co-commission A Feral Commons for Alserkal Advisory as well as a Programs Advisor for the Global Cultural Districts Network (GCDN) and Producer at Quaternaire, a producing and international booking agency.
Imogen has 14 years’ experience working on cultural projects with significant experience in strategic cultural consultancy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.