Shekiha Jawaher champions cultural dialogue at inaugural 'Arabic Cultural Institute' conference in Milan

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Rubu' Qarn Foundation, and Founder and Chairperson of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council (Irthi), attended the first conference of the Arabic Cultural Institute, inaugurated by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in Milan under the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) last August.

The institute, located at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, is Italy's first institute dedicated to fostering dialogue between Arab and Western civilisations while celebrating Arab achievements in science and the arts. 

Sheikha Jawaher toured the institute, exploring its departments and year-round programmes.

Sheikha Jawaher also joined a symposium titled 'Design as a Means of Communication' and observed a workshop for children from Milan's Arab community. This workshop aligns with the institute's ongoing mission to strengthen Arabic communication skills among young Arabs in Italy.

The conference showcased the film "Khorfakkan," based on Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi's book Khorfakkan's Resistance Against the Portuguese Invasion of September 1507.

Attendees included Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; Dr Wael Farouq, Director of the Arabic Cultural Institute; Mario Gatti, Director of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, media personality Mona El Shazly, and Italian academics, cultural officials, and students from the university.

Sheikha Jawaher emphasised the Arab Cultural Institute's vital role in promoting Arabic language and literature across Europe, particularly among youth. She praised the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah in creating a project that builds cultural bridges and strengthens Arab culture's voice within global dialogue.

Sheikha Jawaher highlighted the institute's significant contributions to Sharjah's mission to promote Arabic language and literary heritage worldwide.

At the 'Design as a Means of Communication' symposium, Sheikha Jawaher reflected on fashion design's historical impact as a cultural bridge, noting how Arab culture both influenced and absorbed influences from others over the centuries. She described this cultural exchange as enriching when it respects each nation's heritage and emphasised the importance of preserving traditional crafts and fashion, which play a central role in cross-cultural communication.

Sheikha Jawaher also highlighted the work of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, which she founded to advance Emirati crafts through collaborations in fields like fashion and jewellery. Irthi has successfully introduced Emirati craftsmanship to both Eastern and Western audiences, exhibiting Emirati heritage at prestigious international venues.

Ahmed B in Rakkad Al Ameri stated, "The Arab Cultural Institute embodies a gateway to Arab thought and creativity for the Western world, fostering dialogue, mutual respect, and recognition of civilisational contributions in shaping human history. More than an academic hub, it invites engagement with Arab culture's rich legacy and shared future aspirations."

He added, "Inspired by the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi, the institute stands as a permanent platform for Arab culture in Europe, inviting young people and researchers to explore Arabic language, history, and literature. This initiative marks a pivotal chapter in East-West cultural collaboration, promoting Arab contributions in science, art, and knowledge through a growing network of cultural institutes worldwide, grounded in a commitment to dialogue as a path to deeper understanding."

Mario Gatti welcomed Sheikha Jawaher to the Arab Cultural Institute's inaugural conference, commending the visionary leadership of the Sharjah Ruler, which has elevated the global presence of the Arabic language. He highlighted the institute as a cornerstone of Sharjah's inclusive cultural project, bridging Arab and Western cultures and sparking global interest among students and researchers in exploring Arabic heritage and civilisation.

The conference opened with the symposium, 'Design as a Means of Communication,' where Marco Samichelli, Director of the Italian Design Museum in Milan, and Dr. Maria Teresa Zanola, Professor of French Linguistics at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, explored the transformative power of design. They highlighted how design transcends language and cultural barriers, acting as a universal language that connects communities, showcases cultural identity, and celebrates human diversity through visual narratives.

This was followed by the workshop, 'Exploring the Concept of the Other,' led by Don Ambrogio Pisoni, Professor of Theology at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart. The session focused on cross-cultural dynamics in the workplace, encouraging mutual understanding and valuing the socio-cultural backgrounds that shape each individual.

Participants discussed how embracing 'The Other' enhances personal growth, builds inclusive environments, and fosters meaningful interactions, ultimately strengthening professional relationships. Together, these sessions underscored the importance of design and diversity in bridging cultures and fostering an interconnected global dialogue.

Students and participants involved in the institute's founding were honoured for their vital role in realising its vision and fostering its cultural initiatives.

WAM