Irthi explores strategies to help empower artisans
Organised by Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the discussion hosted Asma Al Hammadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Creatives Development Sector at the Ministry of Culture; Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi; Salama Al Shamsi, Director of Cultural Sites at the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi; Hind Al Mehairbi, Director of the AlGhadeer Emirati Crafts Project; Eng. Ghalia Al Manai, Head of Strategic Affairs at the General Women's Union, and Fayez Al Yamahi, Deputy Director General of Ghars Centre for Social Empowerment.
The panel discussion served as a platform to explore strategies for empowering artisans both socially and economically, while discussing the role of innovation in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the traditional crafts sector and strengthening its visibility in local and international markets.
A national registry for craftspeople
Asma Al Hammadi emphasised that traditional crafts bring unique value and appeal to contemporary products, even when incorporated subtly, due to their profound cultural significance. She noted that the Ministry of Economy is actively safeguarding the intellectual property of local heritage products as a vital step to enhance their commercial presence both locally and internationally, through initiatives, including the Geographical Indications programme.
The panel discussion under way.
Al Hammadi also announced that the Ministry has launched a national registry for artisans to facilitate their access to international markets and integrate them into the creative economy. From traditional heritage to a sustainable economic contributor
During the session, Reem BinKaram highlighted the pivotal role of Irthi, chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, in transforming Emirati crafts into significant economic and cultural assets. She explained that this transformation is driven by a contemporary approach that expands local and international marketing opportunities.
BinKaram noted that the Council began by supporting a single artisan and has grown to include over 500, supported through specialised training programmes and international partnerships that have positioned Emirati crafts on global platforms.
She also highlighted Irthi's holistic commitment to cultural, economic and environmental sustainability, and commended its collaborations with leading brands such as Bvlgari, Asprey and Cartier, which have integrated artisans into the global creative economy and enabled them to build competitive local brands.
Women artisans are guardians of heritage
On her part, Eng. Ghalia Al Manai stated that the Heritage and Crafts Industries Centre, established in 1978 on the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak and with the support of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is the first national institution dedicated to empowering Emirati women artisans.
She noted that the Centre provides a supportive environment through monthly stipends and advanced vocational training across six specialised workshops focused on reviving traditional Emirati crafts, including Sadu weaving, Talli, palm frond weaving, textile production, tailoring and embroidery, and modern arts.
Al Manai also highlighted the "Matjari" app, which markets products made by productive families and was recognised with the Government Summit Award in 2015.
Marketing remains the biggest challenge
During the session, Hend Al Muhairbi explained that since its establishment in 2006, the Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts Project has focused on economically empowering artisans by producing contemporary crafts grounded in traditional practices. She noted that the project extends beyond training and providing raw materials, taking responsibility for marketing the products locally and internationally through exhibitions and retail outlets to secure a sustainable income for its members.
Digital potential for artisans
Fayez Al Yamahi explained that the Ghars Centre for Social Empowerment, part of the Fujairah Charity Association, is dedicated to developing products by productive families as a means of economic empowerment.
Al Yamahi also noted that the centre is preparing to launch a dedicated digital platform to strengthen artisans' online presence and create new opportunities for market growth and engagement.
Irthi participated in the Make it in the Emirates Forum at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, which concluded on May 22, through a dedicated pavilion in the "Crafts and Innovation Zone".
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
9 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
NMO honours media professionals and content creators
Acknowledging media's role in national representation Abdulla Al Hamed emphasised the National Media Office's commitment to engaging with media professionals and content creators in appreciation of their vital role in portraying the positive image of the United Arab Emirates, raising societal awareness, and highlighting national achievements in a professional and purposeful manner. Supporting creativity and reinforcing national values He noted that this recognition stems from the NMO's belief in the importance of supporting talent and motivating them to continue their creativity, thereby reinforcing the media message that reflects the country's values and future vision. Spotlight on the upcoming BRIDGE Summit He also pointed out that the BRIDGE Summit, scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10, represents an important opportunity to unify the efforts of media professionals, creators, and content producers under one umbrella that presents to the world a model of media based on positive influence. He called on everyone to seize this opportunity to enhance the presence of Emirati media at this summit. Launch of the National Bloggers Council He further announced the launch of the National Bloggers Council, which will include everyone, with the aim of unifying the national narrative, strengthening national identity, highlighting achievements, and countering rumours and media misinformation. Celebrating purposeful communication For his part, Dr. Jamal Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Director-General of the National Media Office, stated during the ceremony that this celebration is in recognition of the contributions of media professionals and content creators who have helped solidify the UAE's presence on both regional and international stages. Honouring creators of influence He noted that supporting media talent is an integral part of a national vision that believes purposeful communication is one of the most powerful tools for influence and for bolstering the UAE's global reputation. He continued: 'Today, we honour the creators of words — those who go beyond mere news coverage or the delivery of raw information. They actively participate in building societal awareness, instill a sense of belonging, and enlighten minds in an era crowded with competing narratives and a pressing need for confident, steadfast national voices capable of confronting diverse challenges.' Awards ceremony and documentary screening Abdulla Al Hamed, accompanied by the Director-General of the National Media Office, honoured media professionals and content creators who have distinguished themselves with impactful contributions in supporting the state's media message and enhancing the UAE's standing in the media world. The ceremony included a documentary film highlighting key milestones of Emirati media, achievements made possible by the efforts of national media professionals, as well as scenes depicting the contributions of content creators in raising public awareness and portraying the bright image of the UAE across various digital platforms.
Sharjah 24
14 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
SIH explores cultural cooperation with Zanzibar
Leadership of the delegation The delegation was headed by His Excellency Dr Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and accompanied by His Excellency Saleh Ahmed Saif Al-Hemeiri, Consul General of the United Arab Emirates to the United Republic of Tanzania in Zanzibar. They were received by His Excellency Dr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe, Principal Secretary of the Zanzibar Ministry of Tourism and Heritage. Enhancing cultural and tourism cooperation The visit included discussions on prospects for bilateral cooperation through the implementation of cultural initiatives and training programmes, as well as documentation projects that contribute to highlighting Emirati and Zanzibar heritage on the international stage. The meeting also addressed ways to support cultural tourism as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development. International partnerships for heritage preservation His Excellency Dr Abdul Aziz Al Musallam emphasised that this visit falls within the Institute's strategy to expand regional and international partnerships, enhance knowledge exchange in the fields of preserving intangible cultural heritage, and support institutional efforts to preserve and transmit it to future generations. UAE–Zanzibar cultural commitment For his part, His Excellency Consul General Saleh Ahmed Saif Al-Hemeiri praised the depth of the cultural partnership between the two sides, noting the UAE's commitment to developing bilateral relations with Zanzibar, particularly in the tourism, education, and creative industries sectors. Outlook for Future Initiatives His Excellency Dr Aboud Suleiman Jumbe explained that this visit represents an extension of the growing bilateral relations, which witnessed a strong boost following the visit of His Excellency Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar, to the UAE in January 2022. He emphasised that the next phase will witness the launch of new initiatives that enhance cooperation in the fields of culture, tourism, and cultural diplomacy.
Sharjah 24
14 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
Al Dhaid Date Festival supports productive families
Supporting heritage and innovation through local participation Productive families are showcasing a diverse range of innovative, heritage-inspired products, celebrating Emirati culture and entrepreneurship. Their participation highlights the festival's commitment to empowering communities economically and socially, while promoting the cultural and commercial value of date palms. Traditional products attract visitors The productive families' pavilion has drawn significant visitor interest, offering items such as traditional palm-based crafts like woven baskets and heritage containers, Emirati dishes such as harees and machboos, and locally produced honey, Emirati spices, and Arabic coffee blends. SCCI reaffirms commitment to social responsibility His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, emphasized that the involvement of productive families aligns with the chamber's corporate social responsibility strategy and the broader goals of the 'Year of Community', fostering inclusivity and sustainable development. Showcasing generational craftsmanship Participant Khesbah Saeed Mohammed shared her enthusiasm for the festival, where she annually presents her handmade crafts like sarod and mahafat, passed down from her mother. Her work highlights the festival's role in preserving traditional palm-frond skills across generations. Bridging tradition and modernity Maryam Al Yamahi featured a collection of palm-related crafts such as makhareef and saf, blending modern design elements to appeal to contemporary consumers. She praised the festival for its role in market expansion, business growth, and entrepreneurial support. A rich cultural and commercial experience Running daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, the Al Dhaid Date Festival offers a comprehensive visitor experience centered on dates and seasonal fruits, while continuing to serve as a strategic platform for supporting productive families and local artisans.
