In an effort to protect Egyptian children from exploitation, abuse and violence, Hanfaninha Studio Gallery is organizing a two-day exhibition to raise funds for a project designed to educate 25 street children, victims of child labor and students from marginalized communities, about their rights as Egyptian citizens.
Artists from different backgrounds have donated their work to be exhibited on June 6-7. All proceeds will go to funding a three-week camp held by New Horizon Association for Social Development (NHASD) in partnership with CISV Egypt.
Both organizations, although might be different conceptually, are built on notions of freedom, equality, dialogue and change.
Over 30 percent of children between 7-15 years of age who inhabit the various areas making up Old Cairo are more often than not employed, be it full-time or part-time. Consequently, socializing, in its simplest forms, does not play a role in their daily routines.
Stemming from the belief that those children have the right to play in a safe environment, the New Horizon initiative aims at educating them about their rights as outlined in ratified UN conventions, and empowering them as young individuals through a series of activities and workshops.
The project is divided into two stages: a series of workshops over three separate weekends and a three-week camp to be held this summer.
During those three weekends, a total of 25 children, including street children and child laborers from Ezbet Khairallah and Batn El-Bakkara in Old Cairo as well as students from Dier El-Maymoun village, will be introduced to the existing child laws as well as recent amendments, including the availability of protection hotlines and protection committees.
In addition, children will be introduced to the tools by which they are going to discuss those rights, and fully understand them, throughout the next phase: the camp.
The three weeks that follow will see the children planning activities and engaging in discussion through informal methods of education centered on their rights.
For three weeks, the children are brought together to experience a carefree childhood, without the burdens that may exist at home or the workplace. The idea is to construct the medium where they can enjoy a normal childhood in a safe environment.
In the past few years, there has been a growing sense of social responsibility in Egypt, especially among the younger generation. An exceeding number of people are adorning the notion of giving back to their community. It is not rare to hear about 20-somethings putting together a show or an exhibition for a certain cause. Although this notion has always existed in western societies, it is a phenomenon that is remains novice to some people in Egypt.
The pieces exhibited at “Art for a Cause were donated by both young and established artists specifically for this cause. Prices will be determined via a silent auction that will conclude on Sunday.
Varying between paintings, drawings and photography, the collected works will be displayed on both the outdoor and indoor area of the gallery.The collection includes 25 pieces.
Opening Reception, June 6, 7-10 pmHanfaninha Studio Gallery is open Saturday-Thursday from 12 pm-9 pm until June 7.Villa Dorra41 Mohamed Mazhar St.,Zamalek, Cairo
