Unesco and Dreama Center Conclude in the Art Lab. Doha, Qatar – Under the esteemed patronage of the Minister of Social Development and Family, H.E. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, the Dreama Orphan Care Center successfully concluded the activities of the “Art Lab.” This initiative, conducted in collaboration with UNESCO, marked a significant step in nurturing the creative potential of orphans in Qatar.
The closing ceremony took place at Bin Jelmood House in Msheireb, a venue rich in cultural significance, and was graced by several dignitaries. Attendees included H.E. Sheikha Shaikha bint Jassim Al Thani, the Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs at the Ministry of Social Development and Family; H.E. Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Committee; H.E. Salah Eldin Zaki Khalid, UNESCO Representative to the Gulf States and Yemen, and Director of the Doha Office; and Naji Al Aji, Director of the Associations and Private Institutions Department. The event also welcomed executive directors from various centers, notable figures, experts, and, most importantly, the children of Dreama.
Unesco and Dreama Center Conclude in the Art Lab
The “Art Lab” initiative is part of Dreama’s relentless commitment to enhancing the self-confidence and life skills of the children under its care. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in intensive workshops that focused on expressive arts, with a particular emphasis on creative writing and acting. These activities provided an invaluable platform for the children to articulate their thoughts, feelings, and aspirations, fostering an environment of self-discovery and personal growth.
The initiative was designed not just to entertain but to empower. By leveraging the arts, Dreama aimed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the challenges these children face. Social and psychological specialists were trained to guide the participants in utilizing artistic expression as a means of navigating their emotions and experiences. This approach not only nurtured creativity but also equipped the children with essential coping skills, enabling them to address their challenges more effectively.
Insights from the Closing Ceremony
During the closing ceremony, a fruitful discussion unfolded among experts, UNESCO trainers, and Dreama participants. This exchange was crucial in highlighting the insights gained from the workshops and addressing the challenges that surfaced throughout the program. Recommendations were made to further enhance the initiative, ensuring its sustainability and effectiveness in the future.
Sheikha Najla bint Ahmed Al Thani, the Executive Director of Dreama Orphan Care Center, expressed her excitement at the success of the initiative. “I am delighted to welcome you all to this special day as we celebrate the launch of the ‘Art Lab’ in collaboration with UNESCO,” she stated. “We are thrilled to witness this fruitful partnership aimed at enhancing the skills of our children through expressive arts, allowing them to express their feelings, thoughts, and aspirations.”
She emphasized the importance of supporting these children: “The children of Dreama are not just our future; they are the hearts that beat with love and hope. At Dreama, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to live a life full of confidence and creativity and to receive the support they need to achieve their dreams. ‘Art Lab’ is part of our mission to empower these children, providing them with the tools to express themselves in ways that build their confidence and foster diverse life skills.”
A Commitment to Collaboration
The role of UNESCO in this initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing social challenges. H.E. Salah Eldin Zaki Khalid, the UNESCO Representative to the Gulf States and Yemen, acknowledged the significance of the “Art Lab” initiative. “It is an honour to be here today on behalf of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen in Doha. I would like to congratulate you on the ‘Art Lab’ initiative conducted by Dreama Orphan Care Center. This event, organized in collaboration with UNESCO, is part of the memorandum of understanding signed with the Qatar Social Work Foundation in 2022, and I am truly pleased to see the fruits of this partnership.”
This collaboration reflects a broader commitment to enhancing the welfare of orphans and vulnerable children in Qatar, emphasizing the power of the arts as a tool for healing and empowerment. The success of the “Art Lab” initiative serves as a testament to the positive impact that creative expression can have on young lives, offering them a means to process their experiences and foster resilience.
Looking Forward
As Dreama continues to expand its programs, the insights gained from the “Art Lab” initiative will undoubtedly shape future efforts. The organization is committed to not only providing shelter and care for its children but also equipping them with essential life skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
Future initiatives may include more workshops in various artistic disciplines, mentorship programs with local artists, and opportunities for the children to showcase their work to the broader community. By fostering a culture of creativity, Dreama aims to ensure that every child under its care is not only a survivor but a thriving individual with the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams.
In conclusion, the “Art Lab” initiative is a powerful example of how the arts can play a transformative role in the lives of orphans. Through innovative programs like this, Dreama Orphan Care Center demonstrates its unwavering commitment to empowering children, fostering a brighter future where they can express themselves freely and effectively. The partnership with UNESCO highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in creating sustainable solutions to social challenges, paving the way for a society that values and uplifts its most vulnerable members.