Saudi teenager helps connect students with new opportunities

Saudi teenager helps connect students with new opportunities
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Talal Al-Qahtani founded Saudi Extracurriculars for Students to connect Saudi youth with a range of extracurricular activities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
Saudi teenager helps connect students with new opportunities
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Talal Al-Qahtani founded Saudi Extracurriculars for Students to connect Saudi youth with a range of extracurricular activities in the Kingdom. (Supplied)
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Updated 14 November 2024
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Saudi teenager helps connect students with new opportunities

Saudi teenager helps connect students with new opportunities
  • Over 1,000 young individuals in Saudi Arabia have joined Talal Al-Qahtani’s online portal for ‘change-makers’

RIYADH: Committed to empowering students with the right tools to succeed, Talal Al-Qahtani, 17, founded Saudi Extracurriculars for Students, a nonprofit organization dedicated to help aspiring highschoolers become “changemakers.”

To address what he saw as a gap in the market, he founded SEFS to connect Saudi youth with a range of extracurricular activities in the Kingdom, such as community service, internships, music, art and culture.  

The young founder’s story begins in 2007, when he was born in Virginia, US, to a Saudi father and American mother. When he was two his family moved to Riyadh where he enrolled in Manarat Al-Riyadh International School (MRIS) and studied there from kindergarten to 12th grade.   

Approaching the last few years of high school and struggling to find extracurricular projects, Al-Qahtani took it upon himself to create SEFS.

He told Arab News that his aim is “to create an online portal for students to connect with new opportunities across all Saudi Arabia … I decided to create something I wished I had at the time. My thought process is if something needed is missing then I need to fill that gap.”  

Less than a year since its launch in January, SEFS has 1,000-plus online members. Furthermore, many have been accepted to their dream universities with the mentorship, study programs and opportunities offered to them. 

“We’ve helped students move themselves towards a positive change so they themselves can make a positive impact on their community as a whole.” 

The organization’s mission plan is to turn students into “changemakers” — people who work to benefit others — Al-Qahtani said.

“A changemaker is someone who can work and collaborate with other people to create a greater change, and I say there is no ‘I’ in changemaker.”  

Al-Qahtani, a senior at MRIS, has several milestones in his academic career, such as winning the best delegate award at three Model UNs, and chairing a committee. 

Al-Qahtani is currently an intern at King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology’s petrochemical research institute. In this role, he conducts research on methane decomposition for hydrogen production and has analyzed more than 40 studies on methane decomposition. 

Al-Qahtani was also a social media marketing manager for Sawada Specialty Coffee, a cafe in Riyadh, where he gained marketing experience and learned how to become an effective communicator. 

“Working closely with the cafe’s team and the owner taught me a lot of vital communication skills. Marketing requires creative thinking and taking part in various activities that deal with problem solving ... While interning as a market research analyst I got to create effective market dashboards with research in current design courses in Saudi and sustainable designs.” 

Al-Qahtani previously worked as head of marketing and communications for TEDxMRIS where he led a team of marketers and took what he learnt to create a marketing initiative club at his school, where he teaches “vital skills in marketing,” he said.

“To help my members take their skills and newfound passion further, I currently bridge my members to brand new marketing opportunities at events in Saudi Arabia.” 

SEFS aligns closely with the goals of Vision 2030, creating positive opportunities for young people by connecting them with new opportunities to advance their careers.  

“We help students not only through gaining new skills, but in getting accepted to top universities around the world so that they can contribute to the economy of Saudi Arabia.” 

Al-Qahtani’s goal is to expand SEFS through collaborating with the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia to make a change in the Kingdom’s high school environment.


Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams

Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams
Updated 29 December 2024
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Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams

Young Saudi rug makers weave kaleidoscope of dreams
  • Bassam Al-Khalifi, Saud Al-Rasheed master the art of tufting rugs

RIYADH: In the wake of the pandemic Bassam Al-Khalifi and Saud Al-Rasheed transformed their isolation into creativity, leading to the birth of Ghazlah Studio — a hub for unique, hand-tufted rugs.

The Saudi men’s story is not just about artistry but a testament to how challenging times can inspire innovation and passion.

Al-Khalifi’s journey began when he sought to decorate his room. Frustrated by the lack of appealing rugs in the market, he decided to create his own.

Saudi duo Bassam Al-Khalifi and Saud Al-Rasheed’s story is not just about artistry but a testament to how challenging times can inspire innovation and passion. (Supplied)

“I wanted something different, so I ordered the equipment and dedicated a year to learning how to tuft,” he told Arab News. What started as a personal project quickly evolved into a larger vision.

Initially, neither Al-Khalifi, an artist and designer, nor Al-Rasheed, an avid art collector, had any experience in weaving. They faced a steep learning curve but were undeterred.

“We took six months to learn how to conceive designs, source materials, and weave the rugs,” Al-Khalifi explained.  

HIGHLIGHTS

• The journey of Ghazlah Studio began when Bassam Al-Khalifi, frustrated by the lack of appealing rugs in the market, decided to create his own.

• Their debut collection titled ‘Color as a Scene’ evokes a range of emotions, reflecting the complex sentiments many experienced during the pandemic.

They experimented with various techniques, ultimately settling on a “cut and loop” method using 100 percent acrylic yarn. This approach stands in contrast to traditional Arabian carpet-making methods which often utilize wool and time-honored designs.

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. (Supplied)

Their learning process was filled with challenges, but their determination pushed them forward.

Al-Khalifi pored over tutorials, consulted with experts, and practiced tirelessly. Al-Rasheed, with his keen eye for aesthetics, contributed by curating color palettes and design concepts.  

What started as a hobby soon blossomed into a commercial venture. With their rugs gaining traction, Al-Khalifi and Al-Rasheed launched Ghazlah, featuring a debut collection titled “Color as a Scene.”

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. (Supplied)

The collection evokes a range of emotions, reflecting the complex sentiments many experienced during the pandemic. “I wanted to splash all these emotions on the piece itself,” Al-Khalifi said. The vibrant tapestries of feelings capture the essence of joy, nostalgia, and hope.

The vibrance of their work makes a statement piece in any room. Each piece is unique, with some featuring Saudi themes that enhance their significance and appeal. The artists also draw inspiration from their heritage, incorporating traditional motifs and modern designs, creating a fusion that resonates with a broad audience.

In Ghazlah’s Riyadh workshop, the atmosphere is filled with creativity and energy. The walls are lined with neatly organized shelves filled with spools of yarn in every imaginable color. There are some of Al-Khalifi’s paintings and rugs still in progress, showcasing their journey.

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. (Supplied)

Al-Rasheed gestured around the space, saying: “This place is full of rugs that we made but decided not to sell. Why? Because we love them. I’m trying to push Al-Khalifi to sell them, but he won’t.”

Ghazlah Studio has made a notable impact in Riyadh, showcasing creations in three galleries. Their work has garnered attention not just locally but also from international platforms, leading to collaborations with major brands such as Vogue and Sephora.

These partnerships have elevated their profile and allowed them to reach a wider audience with which they can share their artistry and craftsmanship.

The duo’s success can also be attributed to their innovative marketing strategies. They leverage social media to share their creative process, engage with customers, and build a community around their brand.

By showcasing behind-the-scenes footage, they invite their audience into their world, allowing them to witness the transformation of raw materials into stunning art pieces.

As they continue to grow, Al-Khalifi and Al-Rasheed are committed to exploring new design possibilities, as well as looking into creating home decor items. They plan to expand their collections, experimenting with different textures, materials, and techniques.

From a simple idea born during quarantine to a noteworthy business, Ghazlah Studio continues to make waves in the art scene, proving that even in isolation, inspiration can thrive.

As they weave their stories into every rug, Al-Khalifi and Al-Rasheed invite us all to find beauty and meaning in our own creative pursuits.

 


Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center

Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center
Updated 28 December 2024
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Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center

Hail governor inaugurates Middle East’s largest salmon production center
  • The 10,000-square-meter facility features the latest marine technology

HAIL: Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz, the governor of Hail, inaugurated the Excellence Center for Salmon Production on Saturday, the largest facility of its kind in the Middle East.

A collaboration between the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture and King Abdulaziz University, the center aims to produce 100,000 tons of salmon annually, bolstering Saudi Arabia’s food security and aquaculture sector, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The 10,000-square-meter facility features the latest marine technology, including recirculating aquaculture systems and aquaponics units, which integrate fish and vegetable production.

It is designed to reduce the Kingdom’s reliance on salmon imports, currently at 23,000 tons per year.

Prince Abdulaziz hailed the project as a cornerstone of Vision 2030, promoting sustainable development and economic diversification, while attending officials highlighted its potential to enhance innovation, create jobs, and serve as a model for sustainable aquaculture in the region, SPA added.


Islamic minister highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting peace

The group, comprising 250 European pilgrims, participated in various cultural and entertainment activities. (SPA)
The group, comprising 250 European pilgrims, participated in various cultural and entertainment activities. (SPA)
Updated 28 December 2024
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Islamic minister highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting peace

The group, comprising 250 European pilgrims, participated in various cultural and entertainment activities. (SPA)
  • European guests praise Saudi Arabia’s hospitality, cultural outreach efforts

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs hosted a cultural event for the second group of Guests of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Program for Umrah and Visit, featuring various cultural and entertainment activities.

The group comprised 250 pilgrims from 14 European countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs

They expressed their gratitude to the leadership and the ministry for hosting them, allowing them to perform Umrah rituals and visit historic sites in Madinah and Makkah.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh said Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was committed to being a beacon of goodness and moderation.

HIGHLIGHT

The minister also highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid to those in need around the world, in line with Islam’s core values of promoting compassion and support.

During a reception for the guests, he said the Kingdom would continue to serve Islam and Muslims, and promote tolerance, coexistence and understanding worldwide.

Al-Asheikh, who is also the general supervisor of the program, met the guests, conveyed the greetings of the Saudi leadership and along with members of the program’s working committees reviewed the services provided and received a briefing on their work.

Under its leadership, the Kingdom strove to offer top-tier services to the visitors of the Two Holy Mosques from around the world, he said.

The guests commended the Kingdom on its efforts to promote Islam’s message of tolerance and foster appreciation for its historical and spiritual legacy. They also praised the new projects and expansions at the holy mosques and sites, which align with Saudi Vision 2030.

Al-Khamar Al-Baqari, head of imams in the Netherlands, expressed his gratitude to Saudi Arabia, its government and its people for their hospitality.

Sheikh Ali Al-Zughaibi, the program’s executive director, said that since its launch in 2014 it had provided the opportunity for 4,500 men and women from around the world to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque.

Al-Asheikh also highlighted the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to providing humanitarian aid to those in need around the world, in line with Islam’s core values of promoting compassion and support.

 


Art, animals take center stage at Riyadh camel festival

Saudi craftsman Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. (SPA)
Saudi craftsman Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. (SPA)
Updated 28 December 2024
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Art, animals take center stage at Riyadh camel festival

Saudi craftsman Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. (SPA)
  • The combination of arts and animals makes the event an appealing option for visitors and supports the economic and cultural growth of the Kingdom

RIYADH: The works of a renowned local sculptor are among the creative highlights of this year’s King Abdulaziz Camel Festival, which celebrates not only ships of the desert but arts and crafts from around the Kingdom.

Abdulrahman Al-Zahem is best known for his depictions of camels and traditional tools. Each of his pieces serves as a symbol of the Kingdom’s heritage and connection to the land, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

FASTFACT

The combination of arts and animals makes the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival an appealing option for visitors and supports the economic and cultural growth of the Kingdom.

As well as creating his own works, Al-Zahem spends much of his time helping to nurture the next generation of artists, including his own daughter.

Besides providing a global hub for all things camel, the festival in Al-Sayahid, northeast of Riyadh, is an important platform for the arts, offering an opportunity for artists to showcase their work to a global audience.

The combination of arts and animals also makes the event an appealing option for visitors and supports the economic and cultural growth of the Kingdom. 

The festival ends on Tuesday.

 


Riyadh’s Souq Al-Awaleen celebrates Saudi traditions

Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people. (SPA)
Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people. (SPA)
Updated 28 December 2024
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Riyadh’s Souq Al-Awaleen celebrates Saudi traditions

Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people. (SPA)
  • Souq Al-Awaleen features handicrafts, folk art, and live performances reflecting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their work and revive traditional crafts

RIYADH: Souq Al-Awaleen, a part of Riyadh Season, offers a “captivating journey through Saudi traditions,” according to a recent Saudi Press Agency report.

The souq, entry to which is free, “blends traditional elements with modern touches, creating a vibrant cultural hub,” the SPA continued.

Souq Al-Awaleen features handicrafts, folk art, and live performances reflecting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage and providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their work and revive traditional crafts. Visitors can also participate in workshops focused on Sadu weaving and pottery.

Sufrat Al-Deira, meanwhile, offers “a taste of authentic Saudi cuisine,” the SPA reported, adding that the “atmosphere evokes a bygone era, with activities like cooking demonstrations and cultural performances enriching the experience.”

Riyadh Season runs until March 2025, and has already been attended by more than 12 million people, according to the SPA.