“Ahlan Simsim” collaborates with Raya Abi Rashid

Abu Dhabi (Etihad)
“Ahlan Simsim,” the award-winning children’s program presented by the creators of “Iftah Ya Simsim” and “Sesame Street” programs around the world, is collaborating with Arab star Raya Abi Rashid for a special episode.
Abi Rached is a Lebanese broadcaster, producer and journalist best known for her co-hosting the Arabs Got Talent TV show and the entertainment news program Scoop with Raya on MBC.
Abi Rashid worked as a reporter from the event grounds in the most important international entertainment events, such as the Oscars, the Cannes Film Festival and a large number of international cinema events.
Abi Rashid was chosen as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), a powerful voice that contributes to supporting and empowering children, especially those affected by displacement, which made her an obvious partner to Ahlan Simsim, as the TV educational program is part of a broader humanitarian program aimed at To support children and families affected by crises across the region.
The primary educational objective of the current Ahlan Simsim season is to enhance children’s problem-solving abilities by enlisting their imaginations, which is a vital component of children’s resilience, social and emotional well-being. Abi Rashid’s appearance as a special guest in the season’s final episode underscores the importance of imagination for children as they deal with everyday obstacles.
“We are very excited to be working with Raya Abi Rashid. In addition to being multi-talented, Raya is a role model for many in the region and a true example of the importance of pursuing one’s dreams,” says Estee Pradanaashvili, Senior Director and Supervising Producer of Ahlan Simsim at Sesame Workshop. We hope Rayya will inspire our young viewers to believe in themselves, to mobilize their imaginations, and to confidently pursue their goals.
In turn, Raya Abi Rashed commented on her cooperation with “Ahlan Simsim”, saying: Filming the Ahlan Simsim episode was particularly special, not only because of what the characters of the program meant to me, but also because of the great enthusiasm that overwhelmed my daughter when she learned regarding it. In addition, the wonderful atmosphere on the filming site made the day even more special.
Since its launch in February 2020, Ahlan Simsim has been viewed by over 18 million children across the Middle East and North Africa. The program won the 2022 Anthem Gold Award for Special Projects in Work and Humanitarian Services, and was nominated for the 2021 International Emmy Award for the episode “Old Memories.”