Ithra’s Youth Summer Program Concludes with Inspiring Grand Finale

Celebrating Creativity: Ithra’s Youth Summer Program Concludes with a Splendid Finale

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, known as Ithra, has once again showcased its commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative minds by wrapping up the fourth edition of its Youth Summer Program. This month’s long program, which ran from July 7-31, culminated in an unforgettable closing ceremony at Ithra’s cinema, featuring a vibrant range of activities—from student-made film screenings to stirring musical performances and lively debates about the innovative role of artificial intelligence in creativity.

A Month of Discovery and Exploration

This year, 30 talented individuals aged between 13 and 18 dove deep into a rich array of artistic disciplines, including theater, cinema, music, creative writing, and literature. Over 126 hours of thoughtfully designed educational content, supplemented by 28 expert speakers and 10 specialized workshops, offered participants hands-on exposure to the arts. Notably, collaborations with the Architecture and Design Commission and the Museums Commission enriched the curriculum, exposing students to a broader understanding of creative fields.

Toleen Farea, a 15-year-old participant, beautifully summarized her experience: “The program covered many cultural fields, and each day introduced new experts and topics. I loved the cinema part—creating a film from scratch and using professional equipment was thrilling!”

Toleen’s sentiments echoed the excitement shared by many participants. She highlighted how the safe and collaborative environment helped her overcome her initial shyness about theater and acting. “Meeting peers from different backgrounds made it feel natural. I stepped outside my comfort zone, and it felt great!”

Finding a New Passion

Fahad Al-Qahtani, also 15, reflected on how the program transformed his perception of creative expression. “This program was cultural and genuinely beautiful,” he said. “Not only did we learn from others, but we also brought our ideas to life. By working on pottery inspired by the Japanese kintsugi technique, we realized that even broken things can be made beautiful again.”

Fahad’s journey into filmmaking was particularly inspiring. “Before this, I only made simple videos on my phone. But this program taught me the basics of cinematography, lighting, and editing. I even directed a film about breaking free from routine. It’s only three minutes long, but I hope it makes people think.”

A Platform for Young Voices

The grand finale also featured a special panel discussion with Mansour Al-Badran of the Saudi Film Festival. Al-Badran offered encouragement to the young filmmakers, sharing insights from the Kingdom’s burgeoning film scene. “The experience was not just about showcasing our work; it was a chance to engage in a meaningful conversation about our creative processes,” said Fahad.

As the students nervously presented their films, the audience provided warm applause, creating an encouraging atmosphere. While much of the content was in Arabic, some English was included, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

A Transformative Experience

Zaina Hejles, who had participated the previous year and returned as a volunteer, reflected on how the program had opened doors for personal growth. “Last year, I acted in a play that made me cherish time. This program truly brings out hidden talents in youth,” she noted, emphasizing her appreciation for how it helped her discover a passion for writing.

Her experience was a vital reminder of the program’s broader impact: it cultivates not just artistic skills but also fosters connections among participants. Many, like Zaina, choose to return as volunteers, eager to give back and share their experiences with the next cohort of aspiring creatives.

Looking Ahead

As the curtains closed on this year’s Youth Summer Program, the sense of achievement and community was palpable. Participants not only left with a treasure trove of artistic skills but also with memories, friendships, and a newfound confidence in their creative pursuits. With hopes to return next summer, Fahad and Toleen represent the spirit of the program—an ever-growing community of young visionaries eager to explore, learn, and create.

In celebrating the creativity and potential of Saudi Arabia’s youth, Ithra continues to pave the way for a vibrant future, proving that when young minds are nurtured, they can indeed transform the world around them.