Latest news with #ProjectREEFrame
Gulf Today
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Mission ocean: Funun Arts Group event focuses on coral restoration
In a tribute to World Oceans Day 2025 (June 8), Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, Dubai, has unveiled an initiative titled Rebalancing the Ocean: Coral Restoration Through Art (May 30 – June 30). 'The ongoing event is more than an exhibition,' say Shiba Khan and Farah Khan, founders, Funun Arts Group. 'It is a mission, a movement, and a message to the world, echoing the urgent need to protect and restore our fragile marine ecosystems.' Bringing together 15 established artists and 15 young visionaries, it is a platform where art becomes activism, bridges generations and inspires collective action through creativity. It showcases artworks that follow the language of the ocean — its rhythms, resilience and its cry for help. Each piece is a vivid reminder of the beauty that lies beneath the waves and the responsibility to preserve it. From vibrant corals to the haunting silhouettes of marine life, the art on display encourages reflection, urging the viewer to rethink their relationship with Nature. The inauguration ceremony was graced by dignitaries and change makers, including Sultana Farouq Kazim, Global Ambassador for UNESCO International Action AR and Fashion Designer; Dr. Mohammad Ali, CEO of Breathe Creativity; Kusum Dutta, philanthropist and artist; Anjini Prakash Laitu, renowned pioneer artist and Peter Ferrington, artist and environmentalist. Shiba Khan's artwork. The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and Founder of Project REEFrame, who emphasised the importance of coral reef restoration and the role of art in inspiring real-life change. Another highlight of the event was the collaborative painting activity involving students from Delhi Private School, Sharjah, Ryan International School, Sharjah, and North American International School, Dubai. Artists and students came together to create two large-scale puzzle paintings that, when joined together, formed masterpiece works — symbols of unity, hope and harmony, between humanity and the seas. The artworks being the result of intergenerational collaboration, proved that when creativity meets purpose, generational boundaries and talent gradations dissolve, and impactful narratives are born. Young ambassadors of the event, Mohammad Azaan Mehtab Khan and Wali Mehtab Khan (Grade 3 and 1, Ryan International School) and Maryam Sarfraz Khan (Grade 2, Delhi Private School), took the stage with a skit titled Rebalancing the Ocean. Their message was: it is not too late to act. Shiba Khan noted that 'this is more than a reminder — it's a call to action. Each brushstroke is a visual pledge, a commitment to our planet's well-being. Art has the extraordinary ability to transcend barriers and speak directly to the heart. When we create with intention, we do not just produce beauty — we spark awareness and dialogue, and inspire transformation. Kosha Tarsaria's composition. 'Rebalancing the Ocean is also not just about showcasing talent; it is about using that talent as a force for rousing environmental awareness and change. Through creativity, we aim to awaken responsibility and nurture a sense of collective stewardship for our oceans and the future of our planet.' Farah Khan added: 'Our events are curated not just to be remembered, but to be deeply reflected upon — long after the last artwork is viewed. We believe that art has the power to not only evoke emotion, but also instill purpose. By engaging students to work alongside established artists, we are creating a powerful intergenerational dialogue — where experience meets talent, and creativity becomes a shared language of change. 'The collaboration is our way of planting the seeds of awareness and responsibility early, nurturing young minds to become conscious, compassionate leaders. After all, they are not just the artists of tomorrow — they are also the custodians of the planet's future.' Ghaith Dalati, General Manager of Novotel Suites Mall Avenue, said that 'this event beautifully aligns with the mission of NOVO25, which is rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. At Novotel, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond hospitality — experiences that contribute to the greater good. Artists and supporters at the event. 'Rebalancing the Ocean reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and our belief that art can be a powerful medium for awareness and change. Hosting this event is not just a celebration of creativity, but a reflection of our shared responsibility to protect our planet and foster a conscious, connected community.' Participating artists include Catherine Miras, Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Erum Durrani, Fatima Ahmmed, Kosha Tarsaria, Kusum Dutta, Leena Kewlani, Mallak Alwesh, Manasi Abhijit Deodhar, Maria Aamer Khan, Nataliia Venerova, Pari Sagar, Rayan Omer Hamed, Stuti Parikh, and Shiba Khan. Young artists making the event more special are Aidan Shareef, Dharswana Durai, Kanishka Manikandan, Kavya Vishal, Maryam Sarfraz Khan, Naga Krithi Godem (Delhi Private School, Sharjah); Ali Yaseen, Areej Wahid, Romina Ramin Zeerati, Talia Isam (North American International School, Dubai); and Mohammed Azaan Mehtab Khan, Mohammed Wali Mehtab Khan (Ryan International School, Sharjah). Funun Arts Group is a leading UAE-based platform that champions art as a universal language of connection, empowerment, and education. With over 10 years of experience curating art exhibitions, instigating creative dialogues and hosting youth art forums, the Group is known for promoting diversity and elevating community voices through visual art. Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Dubai is a contemporary hotel situated in Al Barsha district, opposite the Mall of the Emirates, with Ski Dubai nearby. Its location offers guests easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The hotel is also within walking distance of Mall of the Emirates and Sharaf DG metro stations, facilitating comfortable exploration of Dubai's attractions.
Tourism Breaking News
17-04-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
NOVO25 kicks off at Novotel Deira Creekside Dubai and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Dubai
Novotel Deira Creekside and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue announce the launch of their NOVO25 campaign. Inspired by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community in the UAE, NOVO25 is all about embracing fresh beginnings, fostering connections, and creating positive change. Under the pillar 'It's Time to Unwind or Bond', this yearlong campaign invites guests to come together, strengthen family ties, and be part of building a stronger, more connected community. Get ready to dive into an array of exciting experiences designed to inspire, entertain, and engage. From learning new skills to supporting sustainability, NOVO25 has something for everyone. 'We're incredibly excited to launch NOVO25 and invite our guests to join us in a year of meaningful experiences designed to help families and friends unwind, bond, and create lasting memories,' said Nishan Silva, Regional General Manager, Dubai & Emirates North, UAE 'This campaign reflects our deep passion for sustainability in hospitality and our unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community. NOVO25 goes beyond offering fun and surprises; it is about nurturing relationships, championing sustainable practices, and playing our part in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for both our guests and the world around us.' As part of their commitment to sustainability and community engagement, both hotels are proud to collaborate with Project REEFRAME, led by FREESTYLE DIVERS, in a vital coral reef restoration project in Fujairah. This ambitious initiative aims to restore and rebalance ocean and coral reef ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity and raising awareness about ocean conservation. Through this collaboration, the hotels are reinforcing their dedication to environmental responsibility and the well-being of our oceans. 'Project REEFrame has been a community project from the outset', said Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and founder of Project REEFrame. 'By educating and training people of all ages, including corporate teams, families, children, students, divers, and citizen scientists, we have not only been able to create awareness about the challenges facing the coastal marine ecosystems in the UAE, we also are providing concrete opportunities for the community to create genuine impact on our projects. Our coral reef project in Dibba Fujairah is a shining example of what can be achieved when we bring passionate people together. Every week our science and conservation team is working with our sponsors, partners, and the public to create measurably positive environmental impact'. Deepening their environmental impact and commitment to sustainability, the hotels recently hosted 15 young minds and sustainability champions from various schools for an insightful field trip across both properties. The day began with a visit to the Waste Lab, a partner of the hotels, where the students saw firsthand how food waste is converted into compost for agricultural use. They also learned how the hotels are leveraging innovative AI systems like Winnow to minimize food waste, reduce their carbon footprint, and enhance sustainable operations. In addition, the hotels will host the Balance the Ocean Art Exhibition, showcasing the creative talents of local artists. This exhibition will not only be a visual celebration but a call to action for marine conservation, inspiring guests to reflect on the importance of preserving our oceans and reinforcing the hotels' ongoing dedication to both artistic expression and sustainability. Among the most anticipated offerings is Novotel's Tea Cooking Classes, where guests will dive into the art of using tea as a key ingredient in savory dishes. From marinated meats to flavorful sauces, these classes will give guests a whole new perspective on tea's culinary potential. It's an exciting opportunity to get creative in the kitchen while bonding with loved ones over delicious food. To build lasting family memories, children celebrating their birthdays on the 25th of any month will have a chance to win a fun-filled, unforgettable celebration at one of the hotels. Parents can join in the fun by following the hotels on social media, where all the exciting details and instructions on how to enter will be shared. The hotels invite you to be part of this yearlong journey of fresh starts, meaningful experiences, and, above all, the opportunity to unwind and connect with those who matter most. NOVO25 is all about creating moments that will make 2025 a year to remember.
Tourism Breaking News
16-04-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
NOVO25 licks off at Novotel Deira Creekside Dubai and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue Dubai
Post Views: 79 Novotel Deira Creekside and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue announce the launch of their NOVO25 campaign. Inspired by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community in the UAE, NOVO25 is all about embracing fresh beginnings, fostering connections, and creating positive change. Under the pillar 'It's Time to Unwind or Bond', this yearlong campaign invites guests to come together, strengthen family ties, and be part of building a stronger, more connected community. Get ready to dive into an array of exciting experiences designed to inspire, entertain, and engage. From learning new skills to supporting sustainability, NOVO25 has something for everyone. 'We're incredibly excited to launch NOVO25 and invite our guests to join us in a year of meaningful experiences designed to help families and friends unwind, bond, and create lasting memories,' said Nishan Silva, Regional General Manager, Dubai & Emirates North, UAE 'This campaign reflects our deep passion for sustainability in hospitality and our unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community. NOVO25 goes beyond offering fun and surprises; it is about nurturing relationships, championing sustainable practices, and playing our part in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for both our guests and the world around us.' As part of their commitment to sustainability and community engagement, both hotels are proud to collaborate with Project REEFRAME, led by FREESTYLE DIVERS, in a vital coral reef restoration project in Fujairah. This ambitious initiative aims to restore and rebalance ocean and coral reef ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of marine biodiversity and raising awareness about ocean conservation. Through this collaboration, the hotels are reinforcing their dedication to environmental responsibility and the well-being of our oceans. 'Project REEFrame has been a community project from the outset', said Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and founder of Project REEFrame. 'By educating and training people of all ages, including corporate teams, families, children, students, divers, and citizen scientists, we have not only been able to create awareness about the challenges facing the coastal marine ecosystems in the UAE, we also are providing concrete opportunities for the community to create genuine impact on our projects. Our coral reef project in Dibba Fujairah is a shining example of what can be achieved when we bring passionate people together. Every week our science and conservation team is working with our sponsors, partners, and the public to create measurably positive environmental impact'. Deepening their environmental impact and commitment to sustainability, the hotels recently hosted 15 young minds and sustainability champions from various schools for an insightful field trip across both properties. The day began with a visit to the Waste Lab, a partner of the hotels, where the students saw firsthand how food waste is converted into compost for agricultural use. They also learned how the hotels are leveraging innovative AI systems like Winnow to minimize food waste, reduce their carbon footprint, and enhance sustainable operations. In addition, the hotels will host the Balance the Ocean Art Exhibition, showcasing the creative talents of local artists. This exhibition will not only be a visual celebration but a call to action for marine conservation, inspiring guests to reflect on the importance of preserving our oceans and reinforcing the hotels' ongoing dedication to both artistic expression and sustainability. Among the most anticipated offerings is Novotel's Tea Cooking Classes, where guests will dive into the art of using tea as a key ingredient in savory dishes. From marinated meats to flavorful sauces, these classes will give guests a whole new perspective on tea's culinary potential. It's an exciting opportunity to get creative in the kitchen while bonding with loved ones over delicious food. To build lasting family memories, children celebrating their birthdays on the 25th of any month will have a chance to win a fun-filled, unforgettable celebration at one of the hotels. Parents can join in the fun by following the hotels on social media, where all the exciting details and instructions on how to enter will be shared. The hotels invite you to be part of this yearlong journey of fresh starts, meaningful experiences, and, above all, the opportunity to unwind and connect with those who matter most. NOVO25 is all about creating moments that will make 2025 a year to remember.
Trade Arabia
16-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Novotel Deira Creekside launches NOVO25 campaign
Novotel Deira Creekside and Novotel Suites Mall Avenue are launching their NOVO25 campaign, inspired by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community in the UAE. The yearlong campaign aims to foster connections, create positive change, and strengthen family ties. The hotels are collaborating with Project REEFRAME, led by FREESTYLE DIVERS, to restore and rebalance ocean and coral reef ecosystems, contributing to marine biodiversity preservation and raising awareness about ocean conservation. 'We're incredibly excited to launch NOVO25 and invite our guests to join us in a year of meaningful experiences designed to help families and friends unwind, bond, and create lasting memories,' said Nishan Silva, Regional General Manager, Dubai & Emirates North, UAE 'This campaign reflects our deep passion for sustainability in hospitality and our unwavering commitment to fostering a sense of community. NOVO25 goes beyond offering fun and surprises; it is about nurturing relationships, championing sustainable practices, and playing our part in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for both our guests and the world around us.' 'Project REEFrame has been a community project from the outset', said Darryl Owen, CEO of Freestyle Divers and founder of Project REEFrame. 'By educating and training people of all ages, including corporate teams, families, children, students, divers, and citizen scientists, we have not only been able to create awareness about the challenges facing the coastal marine ecosystems in the UAE, we also are providing concrete opportunities for the community to create genuine impact on our projects. Our coral reef project in Dibba Fujairah is a shining example of what can be achieved when we bring passionate people together. Every week our science and conservation team is working with our sponsors, partners, and the public to create measurably positive environmental impact'. To further their commitment to sustainability, the hotels recently hosted 15 young minds and sustainability champions from various schools for an insightful field trip across both properties. The students saw how food waste is converted into compost for agricultural use and learned how the hotels are leveraging innovative AI systems like Winnow to minimize food waste, reduce carbon footprint, and enhance sustainable operations. The Balance the Ocean Art Exhibition will showcase local artists' creative talents, inspiring guests to reflect on the importance of preserving our oceans and reinforcing the hotels' dedication to artistic expression and sustainability. Novotel's Tea Cooking Classes offer guests the opportunity to learn the culinary potential of tea, from marinated meats to flavorful sauces. To build lasting family memories, children celebrating their birthdays on the 25th of any month can win a fun-filled celebration at one of the hotels. Parents can join in the fun by following the hotels on social media.
