As a part of its continued mission to support SDGs through artistic expression, the World Art Forum for Development Foundation announced the launch of the second phase of the “Sustainable Art and Human Development” initiative, themed “Through Her Eyes” focusing on the economic empowerment of women and youth and achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

The initiative is held in partnership with the European Union and under the auspices of several ministries. These include the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of International Cooperation, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, the Ministry of Social Solidarity, and the National Council for Women.

Additionally, the initiative is taking place in collaboration with the Egyptian Tourism Authority, the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, the United Nations Office in Egypt, and a group of international and private sector institutions.

The second phase of this initiative includes a dynamic workshop that focuses on supporting youth and women by intertwining the creative economy with sustainable art practices with an emphasis on recycling and environmental preservation, where approximately 30 young female artists, who serve as ambassadors of sustainable art, will receive customized training on entrepreneurship.

This initiative aims to equip them with the skills required to engage in creative economic activities that align with Sustainable Development Goals (5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, and 15). This training workshop will be held at the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development – the training arm of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, on May 28th for five days.

In addition, a significant art exhibition will be held on June 10th to display the works of the female artists who participated in the art workshop. The exhibition will be attended by several key officials, including Ambassador Christian Berger, Head of the European Union in Egypt, and Dr. Maya Morsi, President of the National Council for Women, among others. Additionally, a seminar on women’s economic empowerment and their role in art will be organized on the sidelines of the festival.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Randa Fouad, Founder and President of the World Art Forum for Development Foundation, stated:

“The foundation primarily began with the Sustainable Art and Human Development initiative to create a new generation of young artists who are fully aware of the importance and role of art in serving society and achieving sustainable development goals. In addition, it aims to empower targeted segments by equipping them with innovative arts and crafts skills, enabling them to create and sell products that can serve as a sustainable source of income. Thus, I truly believe that soft power is emerging as a pivotal strategy, deeply influencing the minds of Egyptian youth and strengthening their connection to Egyptian identity. It also serves as a catalyst for development and adds significant value to the national economy.”

Notably, The World Art Forum for Development Foundation launched the first phase of the training workshops for the “Sustainable Art and Human Development” initiative titled “Bank Note” in May of last year. The initial phase aimed at the economic empowerment of women and youth and was held in cooperation with the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development – the training arm of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development – sponsored by Dr. Hala El-Said, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, and the Ministries of Environment and Culture, and the National Council for Women, in partnership with the United Nations.