The Ta’alouf program, meaning “harmony” in Arabic, is delivered in Arabic and English, free of charge. Over the past 11 years, it has supported 4,109 beneficiaries, including 1,098 parents and 680 teachers, across all seven Emirates, significantly impacting the lives of POD and their communities.

Parent Training Program

The Ta’alouf Parents Training Program equips parents and caregivers with the tools needed to support children with various challenges, including Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and mental delays. To date, 22 cohorts have graduated, representing 36 nationalities. This initiative empowers parents to address the specific needs of their children and fosters a nurturing environment at home and beyond.

Teachers Training Program

The Teachers Training Program, launched in 2014, focuses on equipping educators with skills to address individual learning needs and implement inclusive education practices. Delivered in partnership with Zayed University and endorsed by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the program runs for one academic year.

To date, 680 teachers from 70 public and 60 private schools, representing 46 nationalities, have completed the program. Educators are trained to adapt classroom strategies to support POD effectively, creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, highlighted the program’s impact, stating, “The Ta’alouf program is rooted in the principles of inclusion, acceptance, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of people of determination. By empowering educators, parents, and caregivers, we aim to inspire positive action, cultivate a culture of hope, and improve their quality of life.”

Broader Impact and Future Initiatives

Inspired by its success, the foundation introduced the Ta’alouf Talent Scout program in 2022 to nurture the strengths of POD with intellectual disabilities. This initiative helps them pursue meaningful opportunities in education and society.

Additionally, the program has led to 512 initiatives in private and public schools across the UAE, supporting POD inclusion. Commenting on the initiative, Fr. Suresh Kumar, Principal of St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah, said, “Through the Al Jalila Foundation’s Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, teachers have been able to adapt their approach to special education… This partnership continues to help us work towards an inclusive learning environment.”

Promoting a Culture of Inclusion

Ta’alouf encapsulates harmony and collaboration between parents, educators, and the wider community. Al Jalila Foundation remains committed to expanding this impactful initiative, enhancing the potential of POD and fostering an inclusive society.

For more information, visit Al Jalila Foundation’s website.

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Mila Smart Semeshkina Reflects on the Success of the WE Convention

Mila Smart Semeshkina, Founder of the Women’s Empowerment Council and a keynote speaker at the WE Convention, shares her insights from the event: ‘We aimed for the WE Convention to stand out from other events. Our goal was to create a valuable platform for learning, finding your path, and gaining inspiration—and we succeeded. I look forward to seeing all the participants return next year to share the amazing results they have achieved. I would also be delighted to welcome some of you to the stage. Because we are women, and we can achieve anything!’

Exploring Diverse Perspectives and Empowering Discussions

Over the course of two days, a total of 23 sessions took place on the main stage, addressing a broad spectrum of topics from female leadership to artificial intelligence, and from financial independence to the metaverse. The sessions also explored career advice, personal branding, and style. The WE Convention lineup included members of the MENA region royal families HH Sheikha Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum, HH Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, HH Sayyida Basma Al Said, HH Sheikha Jawaher Bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, tennis champion and entrepreneur Maria Sharapova, singer, supermodel and the former first lady of France Carla Bruni, digital entrepreneur Karen Wazen, actress Meryem Uzerli, CEO of Maison Schiaparelli Delphine Bellini, psychologists Louise Lambert and Elina Landman, and high-ranking executives from KraftHeinz, TikTok, Microsoft, Visa, Mastercard, and Duolingo, among others.

Empowering Engagement at the WE Convention: Roundtables, Workshops, and Personalized Coaching

Participants had the opportunity to engage in 12 roundtable discussions, each lasting 50 minutes, with industry leaders. These sessions provided a platform to address pressing business and societal issues. Furthermore, five workshops provided attendees with opportunities to delve deeper into areas of interest, perfect their skills, explore new developmental avenues, and express their creativity. Topics covered ranged from negotiation techniques to social media engagement.

A total of 42 one-on-one coaching sessions were conducted by industry professionals in the Mentoring Zone, powered by the Female Factor, a global community for future female leaders. Participants had the opportunity to elevate their careers by securing a 15-minute meeting with the right mentor. These sessions featured industry leaders from fields such as tech, design, health, neuroscience, and the creative minds behind your favorite brands.

Cultivating Wellness and Support: The Serenity Corner and Partnerships at the WE Convention

Over two days at the WE Convention, the unique ‘Serenity Corner’ by Whispers of Serenity Clinic of Oman provided a wellbeing pit stop, offering a space to pause, recharge, and prepare for new opportunities. In addition to helping over 150 women take a much-needed mental break and reflect on personal matters, the corner also offered positive affirmations to take home, a mental health check-in, and a quiz to assess self-confidence levels impacting their career growth.

The Women’s Empowerment Convention is possible due to the invaluable support of our partners: international educational platform Lectera.com, TikTok, jewelry house EIRINE, KraftHeinz and wardrobe & style consultancy Better Ask Anna.

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Could you share with us your journey to becoming the conductor of the Firdaus Orchestra?

When Firdaus contacted me, I was already based in Dubai as a freelance musician, so imagine my excitement when getting called to conduct an all-female orchestra in the UAE for a full-time position. It’s a dream come true. I feel humbled and honored every day to be part of this extraordinary initiative by Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy and Expo City Dubai

What inspired you to pursue a career in music, and specifically in conducting?

Music has been an integral part of my entire existence. I started my full-time career as a musician at 7 years old, so I have been around art for as long as I can remember. I have seen with my own eyes and through years of experience that music is a powerful source that unites humanity.

My journey took a profound turn after seven years of piano studies when I witnessed a little girl conducting an imaginary choir in front of a mirror at my music school. In that moment, something within me changed forever. I said to myself, This is what I want to do! Thus began my four-year venture at The Conservatory, specializing in choir conduction. Upon completion, I eagerly undertook the exams that paved the way for my Master’s in Symphonic Orchestra Conduction. I got selected and studied it for 5 years under the mentorship of Maestro Guido López Gavilán.

How does leading the all-woman Firdaus Orchestra influence your approach to music?

Nothing changes in music, whether it’s a mixed or an all-female orchestra. Music, being an art form, transcends gender distinctions. However, Firdaus possesses a captivating fusion of cultures and educational backgrounds that renders it truly exceptional when compared to other symphonic orchestras globally. Our orchestra comprises 26 nationalities, coexisting harmoniously, resulting in a sound that is subtly distinct from others and ultimately unique.

Can you share a memorable moment from your time with the orchestra?

“Disney Princess: The Concert” was an unforgettable experience. It transported us back to our childhoods, surrounded by an audience filled with children joyously living their dreams as they witnessed the princesses they’ve admired on TV, now brought to life on stage. The concert was a deeply emotional journey, very well curated and executed by our team, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.

How do you choose the repertoire for the Firdaus Orchestra?

Selecting the repertoire is a collaborative process, not solely at the discretion of the conductor. Typically, a symphonic orchestra’s musical director, in conjunction with the head of the orchestra, manager, and conductor, chooses pieces tailored to each concert, event, or recording. In the case of Firdaus, this decision-making involves a collective effort between the Firdaus Orchestra, our mentor AR Rahman, and myself. It takes into account various factors to ensure a thoughtful and harmonious selection.

How do you prepare for a performance?

Preparation is key for every concert and recording. It’s during rehearsals that the magic happens and creativity unfolds. The process demands extensive research, in-depth studies, and a profound comprehension of the composer’s vision. Aligning my vision with theirs requires time, dedication, and a meticulous approach to breathing life into the music, fostering a collaborative engagement with the orchestra throughout this transformative process.

Can you tell us about the vision you have for the orchestra and its role in the global music scene?

I have big dreams for Firdaus, I see Firdaus changing the music scene in the country and expanding worldwide. I see Firdaus preparing the next generation of musicians in this country and being the foundation of art in the UAE.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to careers in music?

I would encourage aspiring musicians to pursue their dreams passionately, practice every day, and believe in themselves. I would also encourage parents to actively support their children when they see a passion for music and art. Their support is essential for them. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for our parents believing in us.

Who are some of the women who have inspired you in your life and career?

My role models as conductors have only been men. Unfortunately, during the time I was studying and graduating, I didn’t know many female conductors in the scene that were that well known. So my inspirations were always, Dudamel, Claudio Abbado, Daniel Barenboim, and Karajan. Luckily for all of us, women are now changing the scene of orchestral conduction, and I’m very inspired by Alondra de la Parra, who I believe is going to make huge contributions to change the narrative around female conductors. In addition to Alondra, I am also heavily inspired by Marin Alsop and Karina Canellakis.

How do you envision the future of women in music?

I hope for and envision a future of equality, full of opportunities for women of all ages who are qualified to lead, create, and inspire the world with their art.

Emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of artistic excellence, Monica’s leadership and the orchestra’s unique composition underscore the transformative power of music. As the Firdaus Orchestra continues to perform and inspire, its story remains a testament to the enduring impact of cultural diversity, musical education, and the empowerment of women in the arts. This narrative not only celebrates the achievements of an exceptional group of musicians but also casts a hopeful look toward a future where such initiatives continue to flourish and shape the music industry worldwide.

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Imagine a gathering where creativity soared higher than the tallest skyscraper, and passion burned brighter than the desert sun. That’s exactly what the event embodied—a haven where artistic souls from across the globe converged to celebrate their craft and nurture their dreams.

The event commenced with an inspiring address from founder Daria Kalinina, who shared her vision for the awards by adding “The main goal of the project is support. A teenager may have talent, a desire to reveal it, to share what they feel with others, but they may lack the necessary resources. Teen Art Awards wants to become a megaphone for young people and give them professional tools to promote their creativity and entry into the art community”.

Empowering Teenage Talent: Beyond a Ceremony

With a heartfelt mission to uplift teenage talent, the event wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a movement, a testament to the power of art to inspire and uplift. It championed the cause of young artists, recognizing not just their talent, but their courage and dedication to their craft. But this gathering didn’t settle for merely applauding talent from the sidelines. It committed to providing a nurturing environment where creativity could flourish. For instance, the Sharjah Trip organised by the Teen Art Awards organisers and supported by Sharjah Art Foundation and Sharjah Architecture Triennial. It was a journey that wasn’t just about visiting exhibitions, but about immersing oneself in a world of artistic wonder, where every stroke of the brush and every pixel on the canvas told a story. 

Celebrating Artistic Excellence and Teenage Talent: Insights from the Teen Art Awards in Dubai

Expounding on the decision to hold the International Teen Art Awards in Dubai, Daria elaborated, “The experience of holding the award in Dubai exceeded all our expectations, as Sheikh Mohammed said, soon Dubai will become the new creative capital of the world, and it is truly so, as the best specialists from all over the world come to Dubai to fulfil their dreams and we have been no exception”. 

And then there was the awards ceremony—a culmination of months of hard work and dedication. But beyond the glitz and glamour, there was something more profound at play. Workshops and masterclasses led by seasoned art mentors became classrooms without walls. During this young minds absorbed knowledge like sponges and emerged with newfound inspiration.

A colorful digital show, prepared especially for the award by a group of media artists led by Konstantin Dovzhik and Anna-Valeria, as well as producer Evgeny Potapenko, presented more than 100 works from 38 countries, including pieces by laureates and prize-winners, to the audience. Yaroslav Markov, the art director of the Art.Coordinate Foundation, took responsibility for the visual direction of the project, stating, “The future we are facing today, including in art, is in many ways embedded in teenagers who have something to say to us. Despite their young age, they already know what they want, and we want to give them that voice to be heard.”

Support and Recognition: Key Contributors to Event Success

Generous support from partners such as Diplomatic Solutions and SVX Logistics, along with a partnership with SANAD Village, played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success. The event also featured special performances by Todes and Jiire Smith, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The event’s media partners, including Junior Trumpet magazine and headline media partner Magzoid Magazine. They helped amplify the event’s reach and impact. Varsha Sureka, Celebrity artist shared that “At Magzoid Magazine, we take pride in supporting and nurturing artistic talent”. Through their extensive coverage, they brought attention to the remarkable achievements of young artists and the importance of nurturing creativity. Doors Level 4 restaurant further demonstrated their support. They hosting a VIP pre-press reception, setting the perfect tone for the upcoming awards ceremony. Their thoughtful gesture created a buzz of excitement and anticipation, setting a momentum that carried through the entire event. Attendees were treated to a memorable experience that left a lasting impression.

Lara Tabet shared her impressions of the event, describing it as a superbly organised affair. She lauded the exceptional talent of the artists and the warm reception from the audience, labelling it as the crème de la crème of Dubai. Entrepreneur, Marianna Bulbuc Rheuben, shares her profound insights on the event. She told “Encouraging youth to engage in artistic activities can have profound and lasting effects on their cognitive, emotional, and social growth. I salute and congratulate the team behind the Teen Awards for such an exceptional initiative”

Winners Across Various Art Categories

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards in different categories. These include: Painting, Drawing, Digital Art, Video Art and Art Storytelling categories, with all winners expressing gratitude for the platform provided by the Teen Art Awards. The winners in different categories included:

PAINTING

Winners: Ruslana Slivina (17 years), LAU-V-SHANE (17 years).

DRAWING

Winners: Margarita Astaturyan (14 years), Cathrine Nagel (17 years).

DIGITAL ART

Winners: Maria Zykovа (17 years), Anna Vladimirova (15 years).

VIDEO ART

Nomination Prize Winners: Mitrah Shahani (17 years), Maxim Znamenshchikov (15 years), Margarita Malova (16 years), Polina Mansurova (17 years).

PERFORMANCE

Nomination Prize Winners: Theater and Theatrical Technologies Studio of the School of Creative Industries (All participants were aged 16 years), Varvara Zakharova (17 years). 

ART STORYTELLING

Nomination Prize Winners: Bukho Nomatye (15 years), Artem Volkov (15 years), Fairy Prokhorova (16 years), Anastasia Ivanenko (17 years), Marina Artyomenko (17 years), Polina Ostrovskaya (17 years). 

The prizes, branded figurines, were bestowed upon the winners during the evening festivities. In addition, the winners will receive gift editions of books about art. This will be enriching their artistic journey with valuable insights and inspiration.

The jury panel for the competition comprises esteemed individuals from diverse artistic backgrounds. Recycle Group, winners of the 2017 Kandinsky Prize, offer words of encouragement to aspiring artists, emphasising the importance of self-improvement and exploration. Joining them are Elizaveta Shirinyan, Azza Al Qubaisi, Maisoon Al Saleh. Other important names are Ghada Kunash, each bringing their unique expertise and insights to the table. Together, they ensure a fair and insightful evaluation of the competition’s entries.

BMW showcased their support by presenting an artistically designed car, providing a glimpse into the intersection of art and automotive innovation. Esteemed guests, including Khalil Abdul Wahid Al Rahman, Anna Grigorieva and Max Goshko-Dankov, added to the event’s prestige and success.

In an exciting announcement, the International Teen Art Awards revealed that the next season will take place in Saudi Arabia. This decision further expands the reach and impact of the awards program. In the end, the event wasn’t just about handing out trophies. It was about lighting a spark, igniting a passion, and empowering a generation of artists to paint their own destinies. It was a celebration of creativity in its purest form—a reminder that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.

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On International Women’s Day, KRASOTA Dubai took pride in orchestrating the SHE.FUTURE event, a celebration dedicated to honoring the empowerment and creativity of women. The jewelry partner of the event was international jewelry brand Parure Atelier. The event seamlessly blended haute cuisine, digital art, storytelling, and inspiring talks. It united a community of entrepreneurs dedicated to uplifting and highlighting women’s achievements. KRASOTA Dubai received prestigious recognition with the award of two toques by the Gault&Millau restaurant rating for 2024.

The highlight of the evening, the “Imaginary Future” show, transcended mere visual spectacle, offering attendees a captivating multisensory journey that ignited their imagination. Seven potential future scenarios came to life through cutting-edge audiovisual technologies, harmonized under the roof of KRASOTA. A meticulously curated set menu by Michelin-starred chef Vladimir Mukhin further enhanced the experience. He brought to life imaginative visions of future cuisine. The kitchen’s avant-garde flavor combinations and visually stunning presentations reflect the future’s dramatic changes in humankind’s existence. Likewise, they incorporate rare ingredients and unique recipes, blending both future concepts and digital art onto the plate.

An interactive element was introduced during the show as guests engaged in an arcade game, offering an opportunity to win beautiful stud earrings from Parure Atelier. These exclusive gifts added to the allure of the event. Parure Atelier celebrated the essence of women’s beauty and empowerment through exquisite jewelry creations. Their masterful craftsmanship and attention to detail added an extra layer of sophistication to the event.

KRASOTA Dubai’s SHE.FUTURE: Empowering Women Through Art and Dialogue

The picturesque KRASOTA Dubai terrace served as the backdrop for public talks, in partnership with Legends Art Club, highlighted the pivotal role of women in the arts. Distinguished speakers Patricia Millns and Kourosh Nouri shared their insights, journeys, and experiences. They underscored the importance of women’s representation in artistic realms.

• Patricia Millns, FRSA, advisor, artist, and mentor, offered a unique perspective on the cultural significance of adornment and the heritage of the Middle East. She advocated for the support and recognition of women in the art world. Furthermore, she remarked, “It seems an oxymoron in the world today with so many things happening, but through cultures and understanding each other’s cultures to me is where everything in peaceful happens.”
• Kourosh Nouri, founding Director of “Carbon 12.Dubai” gallery, provided intricate details about women’s heritage in modern art. He emphasized on the feminine industry that permeates the art world. He celebrated women in the art industry, stating that his extensive experience has shown it to be a feminine industry. Importantly, whether it be curators, museum directors, or artists, their contributions are significant. Additionally, Nouri highlighted the significant contributions of women to the artistic landscape and underscored the importance of recognizing their role. His remarks shed light on the diverse talents and perspectives that enrich the art world.

Significantly, through the SHE.FUTURE event, KRASOTA Dubai not only celebrated the achievements of women but also created a space for dialogue, reflection, and a deeper exploration of art. KRASOTA Dubai expresses heartfelt gratitude to all participants, speakers, and collaborators who contributed to the success of the SHE.FUTURE event. The team’s objective is to foster meaningful dialogue and honor the varied talents that contribute to shaping the cultural landscape. This event marks the initiation of the series. It aims to empower discussions and celebrate the rich diversity of artistic expression in the region.

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Charmaine’s latest collection is a vibrant celebration of life’s unexpected lessons, captured through a fusion of neo-expressionism, Japanese Manga, Pop Art, and African art influences. Her art—alive with bold hues, playful doodles, and profound symbolism—serves as a mirror to our innermost thoughts and feelings, revealing the unseen layers of our consciousness.

Taking L’s explores the themes of loss, love, and learning through an upbeat and positive lens, offering a visual storytelling experience that celebrates resilience and the joy found in artistic exploration. Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, highlighting the essence of taking in all the L’s as embracing all the losses and the grief it carries like a winner and moving forward with the trophy of the loss as an addition that enriches life’s journey. Charmaine Chanakira’s exhibition is a testament to the strength derived from involuntary lessons, vulnerability and the power of collective support. Chanakira shares an essential insight that each downfall is a humbling lesson that resonates with knowledge and experiences. We uncover resilience and learn to appreciate life’s complexity, discovering strength in our growth. Each artwork serves as a milestone in understanding different parts of taking the L, acknowledging human emotion, the genuine love and support from her circle of female friends, and the path towards embracing one’s vulnerabilities. This perspective is woven through the exhibition treasuring the significance of self-love, the joy of reconnecting with one’s inner child, and the strength that comes from facing life’s experiences with courage and openness.

This showcase is not merely an exhibition of art; it is an invitation to immerse oneself in the captivating world of Charmaine’s art, where each work is a narrative of overcoming adversity with each step along the path of self-discovery, healing, and the joy of artistic exploration. It highlights the importance of self-love and the transformative power of embracing hardships with courage and grace. 

Charmaine’s work challenges perceptions and opens dialogues around identity, mental health, and experiences, making each artwork a conversation starter and a mirror reflecting the viewer’s inner world. Mestaria Gallery, a hub for regional and global talent, invites art lovers and curious minds alike to immerse themselves in this inspiring exhibition.

Exhibition details:

Exhibition: “Taking L’s’” by Charmaine Chanakira

Dates: Tuesday 27^th February to Wednesday 20^th March 2024 

Location: Mestaria Gallery Alserkal Avenue, Dubai

Timings: Open daily from 10am-7pm

For more information please visit: www.mestaria.art

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In her artistic odyssey, Alkaabi discovered expressionism as her innate style. Adolescence ushered in personal struggles with mental health, an ordeal she overcame by channeling her emotions onto paper. Sketching metamorphosed into a healing ritual, a way to articulate the unspoken. In 2019, a fateful conversation with a classmate introduced her to oil paints, marking the inception of a transformation. Oil became her preferred medium, enabling her to breathe life into her thoughts and ideas.

Alkaabi’s art is an ode to womanhood, a tribute to the strength and emotions intrinsic to it. With each brushstroke, she unveils the intricate power women hold within themselves, portraying emotions that mirror her own introspections. Her canvas becomes a mirror reflecting thoughts, resonating with viewers on a profound level.

Beyond her evocative depictions of women, Alkaabi’s repertoire includes an unexpected subject: sheets. She finds solace and hones her skills by immortalizing the ordinary items that fill our lives. From garments that embrace memories to furniture that witnesses stories, she highlights the profound impact of the mundane. Her artworks transform into vessels of nostalgia, capturing the essence of cherished moments.

Alkaabi’s artistic resonance extends across borders. Her pieces have found permanent homes in diverse corners of the world, from the serene landscapes of Switzerland to the vibrant cultures of Canada and the UAE. Yet, her ambition is unwavering: to embolden and inspire young women. Through her art, she fosters empowerment and motivation, nurturing a sense of camaraderie among women of all walks of life.

Mai Alkaabi’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of art. It began as a personal catharsis, evolved into a testament to womanhood, and now, it serves as a beacon of empowerment for the generations to come. With each stroke of her brush, Alkaabi intertwines emotions and visuals, weaving a tapestry that resonates deeply within us all.

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Depicting a constellation of seven stars, the artwork symbolizes the unity among the emirates, with each woman contributing to a collective vision for a better future. The collaboration holds special significance as it aligns with the theme ‘We Collaborate for Tomorrow,’ championed by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the “Mother of the Nation,” and resonates with the UAE’s “Year of Sustainability” initiative.

In honour of Emirati Women’s Day, 41 Apparel Group stores at Dubai Hills Mall curated in-store celebrations, creating an atmosphere infused with gratitude and unity, acknowledging the pivotal role Emirati women play in society. The collaboration underscores Apparel Group’s commitment to diversity, empowerment, and inclusivity.

Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, Founder and Chairwoman of the Apparel Group, emphasized that the collaboration encapsulates their deep respect for the contributions of Emirati women, aligning perfectly with their vision of a diverse and unified society. The Group’s celebration of Emirati Women’s Day underscores their unwavering dedication to acknowledging and uplifting women’s roles.

Apparel Group’s presence spans 2025+ retail stores and 80+ brands globally, including Tommy Hilfiger, Charles & Keith, Skechers, and more. With a strong foothold in the GCC and expanding into emerging markets, the group has become a beacon of inclusivity, promoting unity through its creative collaborations. This remarkable endeavour is not just an artistic collaboration but a manifestation of appreciation and respect for the indomitable spirit of Emirati women.

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The atlatl, functioning as a lever, was a cylindrical device with a slightly curved shaft, featuring a notch or cup at one end. A dart or javelin would be placed in the notch, enabling the thrower to enhance velocity and thrust when propelling the projectile.

The history of the atlatl dates back at least 17,000 years when Upper Paleolithic humans developed the technology. Notably, the Spanish Conquistadors documented the use of atlatls by Aztec communities in Mexico, highlighting its effectiveness in piercing metal armor with stone weapons. The earliest known atlatl examples were discovered in the Combe Sauniere caves in Southwest France. Its name stems from the Aztec word for “spearthrower.”

Michelle Bebber, an assistant professor in Kent State University’s department of anthropology, challenged the conventional view of prehistoric women as passive and exclusively men as hunters. Bebber stated, “Indeed, and perhaps most importantly, there seems to be a growing consensus among different fields – archaeology, ethnography and now modern experiments – that women were likely active and successful hunters of game, big and small.”

Bebber’s study involved 108 individuals, all novice javelin throwers, conducting a total of 2,160 throws. The results demonstrated that women quickly adapted to using the atlatl and were able to launch darts comparable distances to men with minimal exertion.

Interestingly, Bebber noted that males often struggled due to their attempts to rely on physical strength rather than mastering the technique. This insight led Bebber to the conclusion that the atlatl enabled a “more diverse array of people” to achieve equal performance levels, ultimately fostering gender-inclusive participation in hunting.

Moreover, the study indicates that the atlatl not only leveled the hunting field for women but may have also been invented by them. Bebber suggested that, given the significant benefits women derived from atlatl use, it’s plausible that they were the innovators behind this tool in some contexts.

As researchers continue to uncover new insights into the roles and capabilities of prehistoric societies, the study of ancient technologies like the atlatl sheds light on the complex dynamics of gender roles, innovation, and hunting practices that existed among our ancestors.

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Embracing a deep fascination with research, techniques, tools, and compositional ideas, Emon Surakitkoson challenges and counters assumptions and prejudices based on attributes like gender, size, and race. Her artistic process is bold and empowering, often working on a large scale and employing various tools, utilizing her body as a motive force, and leaving a signature touch that sets her apart.

In addition to her focus on fine art, Emon’s artistry extends into the commercial realm, where she has collaborated with esteemed clients such as Kimpton Hotel, Marriott International Headquarters, Hyatt Regency Hotel, and American Express.

Beyond her art practice, Emon remains actively engaged in her local community, mentoring school students in art through collaborations with local organizations. She has also played a pivotal role in organizing events and markets that support and uplift local artists and makers around the DC area, partnering with prominent entities like the Hilton brothers’ H2 Collective, Strathmore, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Emon Surakitkoson’s artistic journey is a testament to her relentless passion for creativity and her commitment to empowering others through art. Her work transcends boundaries and inspires meaningful connections, leaving a lasting impact on both the art world and her community.

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