Sharjah, UAE – Under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the biennial Arab Cultural Heritage Award for the Young is making waves. As the first program to explore arts, heritage, and sustainable development, it has keenly captivated the youthful spirit of the Arab region. The ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah orchestrates this event in collaboration with the National Commissions for UNESCO, local schools, and educational institutions, united under the mission statement, “Our heritage brings us together.”
This initiative by ICCROM, established to underscore the significance of cultural heritage, melds education with artistic expression, encouraging young people to delve into their rich historical legacy through various forms of art. The event not only nurtures individual artistic expression but also fosters a broader understanding of sustainability through cultural preservation.
The distinguished jury panel, composed of experts from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, further accentuates the competition’s prestige. Among them is Aisha Deemas, a seasoned museum leader and the current Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority. Her insights are complemented by Ayman Othman Al Barout, Secretary-General of the Arab Parliament for the Child, whose expertise in parliamentary affairs and strategic governance adds a unique perspective to the judging process.
Also on the panel is Abdulhamid Mohammed Al Yassi, who since 2019 has directed the Youth Development Department at Sharjah Youth. His extensive experience in nurturing future leaders equips him to identify potent young talent. Dr. Noha Hilal Farran, a Lebanese historian and the brains behind the “Thinking Art Project,” brings a scholarly lens to the judging criteria, ensuring that submissions are not only creative but historically informed.
Mr. Hamid Khalfan Al Kindi rounds out the group with his expertise in institutional excellence and leadership. His critical eye for organizational achievements ensures that the competition’s standards remain high across various domains.
This year, submissions flowed in copious amounts, showcasing talents in drawing, folkloric dance, awareness films, and photography. These items are not only judged on their artistic merit but also their ability to weave cultural heritage into compelling narratives that resonate with themes of unity and sustainability.
What makes the Arab Cultural Heritage Award for the Young particularly impactful is its focus on practical outcomes. Winners do not simply receive accolades; they participate in specialized training workshops in arts, photography, and directing, designed to hone their skills before the awards ceremony.
Launched in 2020, the award was envisioned as a beacon to elevate cultural heritage awareness among the youth in the Arab world. It encourages participants to explore archaeological sites, engage with sustainable practices in the arts, and transform these visits into artistic expressions that narrate their understanding of and solutions for sustainable development.
As the awards have progressed, they have not only celebrated numerous young talents but also created a community dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of Arab cultural heritage. Through their creativity and commitment, past winners have set high benchmarks, inspiring a new generation to explore and cherish their rich history.
As anticipation builds, the awards ceremony promises to be a culmination of artistic inspiration and cultural celebration, poised to propel these young talents onto larger platforms and drive the conversation on cultural sustainability forward.
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