Ahmed Bajoaim – Women in Development and Peace
The creative contributions of Yemeni women in the diaspora transcend geographical boundaries. They have emerged as a driving force in enriching the global cultural and artistic landscape, overcoming countless challenges to build bridges between diverse cultures. Through literature, music, visual arts, and Yemeni cuisine, these women have successfully brought their country’s identity and traditions to the world, demonstrating their capacity for innovation and creativity in new environments.
With an innovative spirit, Yemeni women abroad have transcended traditional molds, offering fresh perspectives on Yemen’s cultural and artistic heritage. Their cultural initiatives and community projects have raised cultural awareness and supported young talent through exhibitions, workshops, and artistic performances. These efforts contribute to modernizing Yemeni heritage and transmitting it to future generations in contemporary ways. Furthermore, these women enrich the cultural fabric of their adopted communities, making them more vibrant and impactful.
Women-Led Initiatives: Sahar Al-Lawda’i as a Role Model
Yemeni visual artist Sahar Al-Lawda’i independently organized a large-scale art exhibition in New York City, showcasing the works of 27 Yemeni artists residing abroad. The exhibition aimed to challenge negative stereotypes about Yemen, particularly in the United States, and present its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Through paintings that captured the beauty of Yemeni nature and its ancient heritage, the exhibition offered a new lens through which to view the country.
Al-Lawda’i’s exhibition sought to improve the image of Yemen through art, highlighting its rich historical and cultural legacy. The exhibition featured works by Al-Lawda’i herself and over 30 other migrant artists. It included diverse artistic expressions representing various Yemeni art forms, traditional incense, and a culinary experience featuring Yemeni cuisine and coffee. Visitors were greeted by women dressed in traditional Yemeni attire, further immersing them in the cultural richness of Yemen. This initiative exemplifies how Yemeni women are leveraging their talents to share their heritage with the world.
In a similar vein, Al-Lawda’i states, “My participation extended beyond the New York exhibition. I’ve participated in numerous art events globally, including in Turkey, the UAE, Libya, and Algeria.”
She emphasizes that Yemen must promote its local culture worldwide through art and cultural events. This will elevate the country’s image and counter the negative stereotypes perpetuated by Western media, which often portray Yemen solely as a conflict zone. For Al-Lawda’i, visual art is a powerful medium to communicate Yemen’s rich values and principles, amplifying her artistic voice and the voices of all Yemenis.
As the founder of Qamaria International Arts Foundation, Sahar adds, “Our foundation aims to organize regular exhibitions across various US states and other countries. We want to showcase Yemen’s remarkable heritage and art forms globally and encourage Yemeni artists in the diaspora to exhibit their work.” She emphasizes that revitalizing Yemen’s arts and culture scene is crucial for boosting tourism and countering the distorted image projected by international media, which often portrays Yemen as a conflict-ridden and extremist society.
Achievements
Sahar Al-Lawda’i has significantly promoted understanding of Yemen by introducing Western societies to its rich cultural heritage and art. Her efforts have helped counter the negative stereotypes associated with Yemen, often perceived solely through the lens of decades of armed conflict. Her remarkable achievements have earned her numerous accolades and awards. In 2021, the Turkish foundation “Lawn Al-Ward” recognized Al-Lawda’i as one of the world’s top artists. She also received the Global Competency Award. The New York State Government honored her with a Certificate of Appreciation for her significant contributions to the art world. Additionally, US Congresswoman Natalia Fernandez recognized her achievements in 2021.
On the academic front, Al-Lawda’i holds an MFA in Fine Arts from Brooklyn College, New York. She previously earned a BA in English with honors from Sana’a University. She has participated in various fine arts courses and obtained certifications in design and graphics. Al-Lawda’i is a role model for Yemeni women in the diaspora, demonstrating unwavering dedication to showcasing Yemeni culture, art, and traditions to the world, challenging misconceptions, and reclaiming the narrative surrounding Yemen’s rich civilization and heritage.
Salwa Badahman: The Yemeni Chef
In the realm of cuisine and traditional dishes, Yemeni chef Salwa Badahman, known affectionately as “the mother of students and expatriates,” has proven that Yemeni food can build bridges between people. Through her venture “Salwa’s Oasis” in Istanbul, she offers Yemenis and Arabs in Turkey an authentic taste of home. Her traditional dishes, like “Bint Al-Sahn”, have gained immense popularity, making her kitchen a comforting reminder of their homeland. Her menu boasts over 15 dishes and varieties of pastries, stuffed grape leaves, and other popular Yemeni foods.
Despite being away from Yemen for an extended period, Salwa has successfully brought the spirit of Yemen to the hearts of expatriates in Turkey. Through “Salwa’s Oasis,” she meticulously recreates and serves delicious Yemeni dishes with the utmost care, ensuring that Yemeni expatriates, especially students, experience a taste of home in every bite. Her venture has flourished, becoming a beloved destination for Yemenis and Arabs in Istanbul. The fact that “Salwa’s Oasis” caters to numerous weddings and graduation parties highlights the enduring appeal of traditional Yemeni cuisine among Yemeni and other communities, particularly those from the Gulf region. This underscores the profound connection to heritage and the sense of belonging that food evokes.
Badahman, a migrant herself, has also authored a book titled “Yajtabeek Indama Yabtaleek”, which was featured at the Yemeni corner of the Istanbul Arab Book Fair held late last year. She proudly shared that she has been involved in entrepreneurship for over two decades, working as a teacher, painter, seamstress, and now, an author. Through her successes in the diaspora, she has showcased various aspects of Yemeni heritage, from cuisine to embroidery and beyond. Her nurturing spirit and guidance have earned her the affectionate title of “The Mother of Students and Expatriates.”
Regarding her motivation behind writing the book, Salwa explains, “It was primarily a form of self-therapy. Life as a migrant can be emotionally taxing, filled with anxieties and challenges.” She elaborates that the book explores the different phases individuals navigate, transitioning from their families to a foreign land, and how they adapt to this imposed reality, whether as students or expatriates. “Even the book cover features our original artwork,” she shares, highlighting their commitment to showcasing creativity. The book has resonated with the migrant community, garnering significant sales and praise at the book fair.
These examples illustrate how the contributions of Yemeni women in the diaspora extend beyond traditional art forms. Their cultural initiatives and community projects foster cultural awareness and empower emerging female artists worldwide. Through modern and innovative approaches, they continue to carry the torch of Yemeni cultural heritage, enriching the social fabric of their adopted communities and introducing the world to Yemen’s unique identity and rich historical legacy.
