Event: Riwaq Al Fikr Series, Abu Dhabi Festival
Location: Zayed University, Abu Dhabi
Date: March 23rd 2017

Overview:
In 2023, I had the honor of participating in Riwaq Al Fikr, a dynamic platform under the Abu Dhabi Festival that fosters critical dialogue on art, culture, and social impact. This particular session focused on Design for Social Change, featuring renowned designer Jessica Walsh, known for her bold, boundary-pushing work and her commitment to using design as a tool for positive societal transformation.

The Session:
Jessica Walsh delivered an inspiring presentation on the role of design in challenging societal norms and sparking conversations around inclusivity, mental health, and community engagement. Her insights into the creative process behind projects like Ladies, Wine & Design and &Walsh highlighted the transformative power of visual storytelling and strategic design in addressing social issues.

The session emphasized the intersection of aesthetics and activism, demonstrating how thoughtful design can serve as a catalyst for dialogue and change. The interactive nature of the talk encouraged participants to reflect on their own creative practices and consider how their work could contribute to broader societal conversations.

Personal Reflection:
Engaging with Jessica Walsh and the Riwaq Al Fikr community was a transformative experience that reinforced my belief in the potential of art and design as tools for cultural diplomacy and social innovation. The session inspired me to further integrate social consciousness into my own curatorial and strategic practices, ensuring that my work continues to foster meaningful cultural dialogue and promote inclusive narratives.

This experience underscored the importance of platforms like Riwaq Al Fikr in nurturing the next generation of creative leaders and thinkers, providing a space where art and culture intersect with critical issues facing our societies today.