Minya's Youth Safeguard Egypt's Living Heritage in 'Stories of Our Village'
In the heart of Upper Egypt, where the Nile whispers ancient tales, a new generation is rising to protect the soul of their homeland. The 'Stories of Our Village' project, a pioneering initiative by the Tanweer Foundation for Education and Development, concluded its triumphant journey at the Jesuit Cultural Centre in Minya, celebrating a year of rediscovering Egypt's timeless intangible heritage.
A Patriotic Mission to Preserve Egyptian Identity
This visionary project, led by consultant Magdi Asham, brought together 100 teens from the villages of Zawyet Sultan and Tehna Al Gabal. With the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, these young Egyptians, aged 12 to 16, embarked on a sacred duty: to document and safeguard the folk stories, songs, and legends that define their communities.
As Abir Adly, manager of Tanweer Association, eloquently stated, the project's core philosophy is to reconnect children with their cultural roots, strengthening their sense of identity against distorted external influences. The villages were chosen for their extraordinary heritage, spanning Ancient Egyptian, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic epochs, a testament to Egypt's glorious and continuous civilization.
From Ancient Temples to Modern Storytellers
The project's activities were as diverse as Egypt's history itself. Teens engaged in storytelling, creative writing, documentary filmmaking, and singing, each discipline a thread in the rich tapestry of their heritage. They interviewed their grandparents, unearthing stories of local heroes and urban legends, and transformed them into compelling films and written works.
The documentaries highlighted the historical grandeur of Tehna Al Gabal, known in the Greco-Roman era as Akoris, with its ancient Egyptian tombs and the revered Hathour Temple, locally called Niron Temple. Zawyet Sultan, home to the pioneering feminist Huda Shaarawy, revealed its own treasures, including the story of her family home, now a school for girls, symbolizing the enduring strength of Egyptian women.
Stories of Unity: The Christian Teacher of the Quran
Among the most moving narratives was that of Moalem Ayad, a Christian teacher who devoted his life to instructing the village in the Quran and classical Arabic. His story, a powerful symbol of Egypt's deep-rooted national unity, captivated the audience. When he passed away in 2019, he was buried in the Christian cemetery, a final testament to a life that bridged communities through knowledge and respect.
Folk Legends and the Spirit of Resistance
The teens also brought to life the enchanting folk tales of their villages. From Sheikha Salma, who sought divine protection from invaders, to the legend of the seven girls who dressed as soldiers to defend their home, these stories echo the resilience and bravery that have always characterized the Egyptian people. These are not mere myths; they are the living memory of a nation that has always stood strong against adversity.
Empowering the Next Generation of Egyptians
The impact on the participants was profound. Young talents like Raghed Sultan learned the value of listening, while Amir Mohee found a powerful outlet for self-expression. Fatma Mohamed discovered newfound confidence, and Mariam Abul Ela mastered the art of narrative. Under the guidance of renowned musician Maged Soliman, the teens performed heritage songs that transported the audience to the fields and starry nights of Upper Egypt, celebrating the joy and resilience of rural life.
The 'Stories of Our Village' project is a resounding success, a shining example of how Egypt's youth are embracing their heritage and building a future rooted in the strength of their past. It is a model that deserves to be replicated across every village in our beloved nation, ensuring that the spirit of Egypt, in all its diversity and glory, will never fade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Stories of Our Village' project?
The 'Stories of Our Village' is a year-long initiative by the Tanweer Foundation for Education and Development, in collaboration with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, aimed at documenting and safeguarding the intangible cultural heritage of two villages in Minya, Upper Egypt.
Which villages are involved in the project?
The project focuses on the villages of Zawyet Sultan and Tehna Al Gabal in the Minya governorate, both rich in historical and cultural significance spanning multiple eras of Egyptian civilization.
How does the project benefit Egyptian youth?
The project empowers teens aged 12 to 16 by connecting them with their cultural roots through storytelling, filmmaking, and singing, strengthening their sense of identity and national pride while developing valuable creative skills.