A Moment of Pure Recognition
Some moments don’t need applause –they simply stay. The year was 2010.
In the energetic pulse of the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix, a quiet moment became a turning point:a personal encounter with: His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a leader whose vision does not only guide a nation, but inspires the human soul. To meet him was more than honour.
It was the confirmation that presence can speak louder than words.
That alignment between values and place is real – and lasting. And from the land where that moment happened, came another:
Christian Wulff, Federal President of Germany at the time,
acknowledged my journey as the story of a woman who had built bridges
between continents, between cultures, between heart and responsibility.
His recognition of my work as a connector between Europe and the Middle East
ignited something that can’t be given – only felt: Belonging. In a world often rushing toward titles, this was a moment of being truly seen. And seen I was – again – in the home of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan,
where a private tribute ceremony acknowledged my lifelong commitment to people, animals, and the earth they share. An evening filled with quiet dignity,
made possible by the remarkable support of Minister of State, Her Excellency Dr. Maitha Salem Al Shamsi, whose belief in me was never about position – but purpose. She saw something that only visionaries see: not where I had come from, but where I could belong. Born in a little village in the north of Germany,
I have always known the value of roots. But here, in the Emirates, I learned how to grow wings. And to offer something in return – not to impress, but to honour.
Every step I take now, every story I write, every voice I lift –is part of this acknowledgment. To all those who believed, who encouraged, who stood beside me in silence or in celebration – you are written into everything I give.
And to my adopted land :
THANK YOU!
Birgit Maria Kemphues
ABOUT ME. 
What Moves Me – and Moves Others
The Emirates Code is a concept I created after living and working in the UAE for many years.
It reflects the core values I observed in daily life and leadership across the country –
such as respect, generosity, presence, discipline, and vision.
It’s not an official system, but rather a lived culture shaped by tradition and modern ethics.
This includes how people treat each other, how trust is built, and how ambition is combined with humility.
Based on these experiences, I developed an audiobook interpretation to capture the essence of this unique mindset –
not through facts, but through voice, feeling, and storytelling.
Tradition + Vision = Future
that’s my Emirates Code Shortcut!
Strategic Clarity. Human Insight.
Leadership is not about control – it’s about impact.
Emotions, when understood, become data.
Trust becomes strategy.
And presence becomes power.
This is where decisions are felt – not just made.
AKAS – Art Knows No Borders. A cultural project connecting Emirati identity with global storytelling through art.
Check it out on Youtube
Exploring how emotional intelligence and gratitude shape leadership, animal care, and mindful presence.
Explore Insights
Emirates Music 2090. AI meets heritage in the sound of tomorrow.
Discover the VisionWhat Others Experience
Feedback from those who read, listened, and connected across cultures.
“Maria doesn’t just speak about female leadership – she embodies it. With presence and intuition, she sees the unspoken struggles, especially in male-dominated rooms. She leads without overpowering, guides without ego, and gives other women the confidence to rise without apology.”
Haifa Al Suhmaani
FMEC International, France
“In a room full of strategy and numbers, she brings something rare: emotional clarity. Maria doesn’t just understand business – she senses dynamics, reads silence, and moves people into alignment. That’s not training. That’s presence.”
Tahnoon Mously
CEO Global Advisory Board Member (Bahrain)
“كلماتها تلامس القلب، وكأنها تعرف شعورك قبل أن تنطق به.”
Hamdan Al Mansouri
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
No need to follow. Just pause – and thanks. That’s enough.
„Real influence doesn’t look like a title. It feels like trust.“ by B.M.K.
„Respect is a universal language – no translation needed.“ by B.M.K.
„What I do isn’t loud. But it echoes.“ by B.M.K.
Your Message Matters!
Because real connection starts with intention.