Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, UAE
June 2017

As part of Place Du Ramadan, a North African-themed suhoor and cultural gathering at Alserkal Avenue, I was invited to moderate discussions with key figures in the arts, culture, and business sectors, engaging in meaningful conversations on heritage, identity, entrepreneurship, and creative industries in the UAE and beyond.

Key Discussions & Highlights:

Ashley Al Busmait (Desert Vogue) – Fashion as a Cultural Statement

My conversation with Ashley Al Busmait, also known as Desert Vogue, revolved around modest fashion as an evolving cultural expression. We explored:

• How traditional Emirati attire continues to inspire contemporary fashion.

• The role of modest fashion in global identity and its intersection with empowerment.

• The challenge of maintaining authenticity while embracing modernity in design.

Omaira Al Olama – Career Development & Cultural Storytelling

Speaking with Omaira Al Olama, a figure recognized for her impact on leadership and career mentorship, our discussion touched on:

• The importance of mentorship in the creative sector, especially for emerging Emirati talents.

• The role of storytelling in personal branding and career advancement.

• How cultural programming can serve as a tool for leadership and empowerment.

Helen Al Uzaizi – Creative Entrepreneurship & Innovation

As the CEO of BizWorld UAE, Helen Al Uzaizi brought insights into entrepreneurship in the creative industries. Our conversation centered on:

• The intersection of business and culture—how artists can become entrepreneurs.

• Strategies for supporting emerging creative businesses in the UAE.

• The importance of financial literacy in the arts sector.

Fatma Husam – Influencing Cultural Perceptions Through Fashion

As an influencer and designer, Fatma Husam shared her views on:

• How cultural heritage can inform contemporary design.

• The responsibility of influencers in shaping cultural perceptions.

• The impact of fashion storytelling in the UAE’s evolving creative landscape.

Yvette (Speaker on ‘The Gift of Reading for Pleasure’) – Literature & Cultural Identity

In a conversation focused on the power of reading, we explored:

• How literature preserves cultural narratives.

• The role of reading in shaping personal and national identity.

• Strategies to encourage reading among young Emiratis.

Isobel Abulhoul – Literature & the Future of Emirati Cultural Programs

Speaking with Isobel Abulhoul, a leading figure in UAE’s literary scene, our discussion covered:

• The role of literary festivals in fostering cultural exchange.

• How publishing and education can strengthen the UAE’s creative economy.

• The need to bridge traditional storytelling with contemporary literature.