In celebration of International Literacy Day 2024, Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel, Dubai, hosted a groundbreaking event under the theme “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.” The event, a milestone in the UAE’s cultural and educational landscape, gathered youth leaders, distinguished guests, and artists from various fields to emphasize the power of multilingual education in fostering global unity and peace. Recognizing that literacy extends beyond just reading and writing, the event underscored literacy as a fundamental human right that empowers individuals, fosters social inclusion, and serves as a bridge between cultures.
The gathering was honored by distinguished guests of honor, Ms. Harjyot Oberoi Bohra, Head of Marketing and Communication at Khaleej Times, Mr. Ahmed Al Awadhi, a legendary Emirati artist and businessman, and Mr. Anjani Prakash Laitu, a celebrated artist.
In addition to these luminaries, a host of esteemed guests, including educators, artists, and thought leaders, participated in this significant event. Notable attendees included Ms. Crystal C. Goodwin, Vice Principal of North American International School, Ms. Mara Firetti, Founder of Firetti Contemporary, Dr. Fatima Beena, Senior Lecturer at De Montfort University Dubai, Ms. Ayesha Shaik, Founder and Director of AES Edu Marketing Events Network, Ms. Zahra Habibizad, Founder of O4 gallery, Ms. Charul C Jaitley, Ted x speaker and author, Ms. Tessy Koshy, Editor of the Middle East Masala blog, Ms. Saida Bano, HOD, ISCS, Sharjah, Ms. Mussarat Yasmin, HOD, Arts , NAIS, Dubai, Ms. Maria Komal, HOD Art , Dubai Gem Private School, Ms. Yuvika Garg, Ms. Kavita Sriram, Ms. Soobika Fawad, Ms. Stefania Pomilo,(Artists, art educators and mentors), Dr. Poonam Chauhan, Ms. Pari Sagar, Ms. Mankush Shrivastav, Ms. Veena Nair, HOD, English, Delhi Private School Sharjah and Ms. Aditi Tiwari, HOD, English Dubai Gem Private School
The event was structured into four distinct segments: Youth Panel Talk, Senior Panel Talk, Live Art Session, and a Pledge Campaign, with each section contributing to the overarching theme of promoting literacy through linguistic inclusivity.
The youth panel featured vibrant discussions led by students from schools across the UAE, including Dubai Gem Private School, Delhi Private School Sharjah, North American International School, and the International School of Creative Science, Sharjah. Youth speakers from Bronte College in Canada, including Arina Zakharova and Nirada Charoonuk, shared their insights on the global importance of multilingual literacy via Zoom, accompanied by their principal Ms. Anne-Louise Power and Dr. Nafisa Motiwala, an art educator.
The youth speakers who shared their insights were Fatema Saifuddin, Eimaan Fatimah, Naba Fatima Jawad Raza and Angelina Geor from Dubai Gem Private School,
Mohd. Huzaifa Khan, Nitish Kasireddy, Syed Humayl and Khwahish Punjabi from Delhi Private School, Sharjah. Rojeen Waleed and Ali Imran, from North American International School. Aafiya Faisal Abdul Wahab, Amelia Ali, Ayesha Ahmed, and Yomna Ghanem from International School of Creative Science, Sharjah
These young voices passionately expressed how literacy in multiple languages equips individuals to communicate effectively in an increasingly interconnected world. They highlighted how multilingual education fosters inclusivity and enables students to thrive in a multicultural society.
The senior panel featured esteemed professionals from various fields who provided valuable perspectives on the significance of promoting multilingualism in education. Ms. Crystal C. Goodwin, Ms. Mara Firetti, Dr. Fatima Beena, Ms. Zahra Habibizad, Ms. Ayesha Shaik and Ms. Charul C Jaitly were among the influential voices that discussed how linguistic diversity in educational curricula can create more inclusive societies, foster cross-cultural dialogue, and contribute to global peace efforts.
In a celebration of artistic expression, a live art session was held, with artists creating works that reflected the themes of literacy, education, and multicultural harmony. The live art demonstrated how visual creativity can complement linguistic literacy, further bridging cultural gaps and uniting people through shared experiences.
Shiba Khan, Founder and Director of Funun Arts Group, highlighted the long-term vision: “Multilingual education holds the key to overcoming the educational barriers that exist for countless individuals around the world. By empowering people to learn and express themselves in their mother tongue, we foster a more inclusive, peaceful, and understanding global society. Today’s event is just one small step towards that goal, and by involving youth, we believe they will be the torchbearers for a brighter, more unified future.”
Mohd. Huzaifa Khan, Co-founder of the Youth Creative Minds Hub, added, “Literacy forms the foundation of learning, yet millions worldwide are still denied this right. By integrating multiple languages into educational systems, we can create inclusive classrooms where all students feel represented and valued, ultimately contributing to long-term peacebuilding efforts.”
The event was a testament to the ongoing collaboration between Funun Arts Group and Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, both committed to making the world a better place through initiatives that promote education, creativity, and social cohesion. An upscale 5-star property located close to World Trade Centre comprising of 384 spacious rooms & suites, with 5 International dining options and recreational facilities including the gym, rooftop pool, sauna and a premium Spa. The property can also accommodate events and meetings for up to 200 guests at different venues.
Michael Chan, General Manager of Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel Dubai, expressed pride in the partnership: “We are extremely proud to co-sponsor and host Funun Arts Group’s celebration of International Literacy Day. Literacy is a critical component of communication, and communication is the foundation of understanding and peace. We are honored to contribute to this noble cause.”
Ms. Harjyot Oberoi Bohra, Head of Marketing and the Guest of Honor at the event, emphasized the transformative power of multilingual literacy in fostering global harmony. She stated, “When we talk about mutual understanding, we envision a world where communication flows freely between cultures and communities. Literacy, especially when multilingual, allows us to not only communicate effectively but also understand and appreciate the diverse perspectives that enrich our lives.”
Farah Khan, Co-founder and Creative Designer of Funun Arts Group, took the opportunity to introduce the organization’s mission: “Funun Arts Group is a platform dedicated to nurturing creativity, promoting artistic expression, and empowering artists across the UAE. Our mission is to build a community where art, education, and cultural diversity come together to inspire and uplift.”
Funun Arts Group, in collaboration with Youth Creative Minds Hub, has committed itself to making the world a better place through art, education, and advocacy for multilingual literacy. The pledge taken at the International Literacy Day 2024 event reflects their shared vision for a more peaceful, inclusive, and educated global society.
The pledge reads:
“As we stand here today, we recognize that education and literacy are powerful tools for promoting peace and social harmony. Every book, every word, and every conversation have the potential to break down barriers, nurture empathy, and create a more peaceful, inclusive world. Let us remember that International Literacy Day is not just about celebrating literacy—it is a reminder of the work that still lies ahead. As educators, students, policymakers, and community leaders, we must work together to:
- Champion multilingual education in schools and institutions.
- Support literacy programs that cater to linguistic diversity.
- Advocate for policies that promote language inclusivity in education.
By doing so, we empower future generations with the tools they need to foster understanding, nurture peace, and create a world where every voice—no matter the language—is heard and valued.”
