Youth Gathering at KACND: The King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue (KACND) hosted a youth gathering as part of its "Ambassador" program, bringing together young people from diverse nationalities to foster cultural exchange and understanding.
Riyadh, December 26, 2024 – The King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue (KACND) hosted a dynamic youth gathering today as part of its "Ambassador" program, which brought together young people from a wide array of nationalities. The event, aimed at fostering cultural exchange and dialogue, provided an opportunity for international students and young individuals residing in Saudi Arabia to connect and share experiences while deepening their understanding of Saudi society.
Ibrahim bin Zayed Al-Asimi, Deputy Secretary-General of KACND, explained that the "Ambassador" program is designed to promote cultural communication and offer participants an immersive experience into the rich Saudi heritage. Al-Asimi highlighted that the initiative's core objectives are to introduce the Saudi identity, celebrate the country’s authentic traditions, and showcase its vibrant customs. By doing so, the program helps participants better appreciate the values of coexistence and mutual respect, reinforcing the shared human principles of tolerance and openness to diverse cultures. This effort aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a global hub for intercultural dialogue and understanding.
A key feature of the event was the involvement of the Heritage Commission, which set up a booth to highlight the Kingdom’s craft industry and its deep cultural roots. The booth not only offered a glimpse into the rich history of Saudi craftsmanship but also spotlighted the contributions of international students studying in the Kingdom, illustrating their successful integration into Saudi society. These students shared their experiences, providing insights into how they have adapted to Saudi customs while maintaining their own cultural identities.
The gathering also provided a platform for lively discussions on important themes such as coexistence, tolerance, and the common values that bind different civilizations together. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations, exploring how shared human values, such as respect for diversity and cultural understanding, play a central role in fostering peaceful relations between people of various backgrounds. The event also delved into the unique social customs and traditions of Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on culinary practices and distinct linguistic expressions, which were presented by participants from various cultures.
The "Ambassador" program and the youth gathering exemplify the King Abdulaziz Center for National Dialogue’s ongoing efforts to create spaces for meaningful intercultural exchange and to promote the values of mutual respect and understanding. By engaging young people from diverse backgrounds, the event provided a unique opportunity for participants to not only learn about Saudi culture but also to reflect on their shared experiences as global citizens. As Saudi Arabia continues to champion the goals of Vision 2030, initiatives like this play a crucial role in building bridges between cultures and shaping a more interconnected and harmonious world.