SPEAKER
Jessica Smith
Jessica Smith OAM PLY is an award-winning author, motivational speaker, and global advocate for disability inclusion. A former Australian Paralympic swimmer, Smith has transformed her lived experience into powerful storytelling through her Just Jessica children’s book series, which encourages young readers to embrace difference, empathy, and kindness. Beyond her writing, she serves as Head of Strategic Partnerships for Purple, a global leader in accessibility, and as Accessibility Advisor for Dubai Airports, where she drives systemic change in the design of inclusive spaces. Combining storytelling, advocacy, and leadership, Smith inspires a world where every body and every mind belongs.
Attend their Events ....
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Women Shaping Sport in the Middle East
How are Gulf women turning sport into a platform for ambition? Jessica Smith and Fatima Al Bluoshi share stories of grit, success, and breaking barriers, inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
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50.00 AED
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Representation Matters
Join Paralympian Jessica Smith and Tia Watson of Team AngelWolf for a session on inclusive storytelling, showing how books can reflect real lives, spotlight underrepresented characters, and create heroes beyond labels.
Read MorePrice
50.00 AED
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Walk for Inclusion
Join us for an inclusive 2.5km walk, jog or run around the Creek as part of Emirates LitFest. Delivered in partnership with Paralympian and author Jessica Smith and Dubai-grown heroes Team Angel Wolf.
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GET IN TOUCH WITH THE LITFEST
Have a question about this year’s LitFest? We’re happy to provide you with the answers you seek, from practical details about this year’s events and more information about our venues and programme, to responses to other frequently asked questions.
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