What if a single story could transport you through millennia, reveal hidden corners of a vibrant culture, or connect you to the very soul of a nation? For many, especially those who call Egypt home, their heritage isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a living, breathing part of who they are. It’s in the ancient stones, the melodic call to prayer, the aroma of spices in a bustling souk, and the intimate whispers of family traditions passed down through generations.
Just a few weeks ago, a truly special event unfolded under the beautiful canopy of Bibliothek Egypt at Arkan Plaza. It was a moment of celebration, of recognition, and profoundly, of shared storytelling. Egyptian Streets, in collaboration with FairTrade Egypt and Bibliothek Egypt, proudly hosted a ceremony to honor the winners of the “Timeless Tales: Egypt’s Cultural Heritage Writing Competition.” This initiative wasn’t merely about finding the best writers; it was about unearthing the beating heart of Egypt through the deeply personal narratives of its residents.
A Tapestry of Tales: Weaving Egypt’s Diverse Heritage
The premise of the competition was beautifully expansive: invite residents of Egypt to share first-person stories exploring the country’s diverse cultural heritage. This wasn’t limited to the well-trodden paths of ancient Pharaonic history. Instead, the call went out for tales touching upon Coptic, Islamic, and Jewish histories, as well as the rich, often intangible, traditions that truly define a culture – think crafts, music, performance, and the very act of storytelling itself. It was an invitation to look beyond the grand monuments and delve into the human experience of heritage.
The response was nothing short of inspiring. Over 50 thoughtful and moving entries poured in, each a unique window into an individual’s connection to their roots. Imagine the sheer difficulty of judging such a collection! Every submission brought its own flavour, its own rhythm, and its own perspective on memory and identity. From a childhood memory sparked by a traditional dish to an encounter that brought ancient history to life, the stories painted a vibrant, multifaceted picture of Egypt that even the most seasoned historians might overlook.
The sheer breadth of topics was astounding. Some stories delved into the profound spiritual echoes of Coptic monasteries, while others captured the lively spirit of Islamic festivals. There were tales that brought to life the intricate artistry of traditional crafts and those that hummed with the rhythm of forgotten folk songs. What stood out most was how these personal encounters transcended mere description, offering readers an emotional resonance that made Egypt’s heritage feel palpable and immediate.
Unveiling the Voices: Celebrating the Winners
After weeks of careful consideration, with judges poring over every word and sentiment, thirteen standout entries were finally selected for recognition. Each of these stories, whether placing in the top three or among the finalists, offered a distinct and compelling voice that collectively celebrated the richness of Egypt’s cultural fabric. It was a testament to the fact that while history might be written in textbooks, true heritage lives in the stories we tell.
The Top Three: Stories That Struck a Chord
The competition’s top three winners received well-deserved product vouchers from FairTrade Egypt – a lovely nod to supporting local craftsmanship – and a curated selection of books from Bibliothek Egypt, encouraging even more literary exploration. Their pieces were chosen for their exceptional depth, originality, emotional resonance, and their profound connection to the heart of Egypt.
- First Place: “The Cairo I Never Thought I’d Miss” by Razan Salah. A title that immediately piques curiosity, hinting at a journey of rediscovery and perhaps a nuanced relationship with the bustling capital.
- Second Place: “Our Gold” by Maryam Saleh. This title suggests a story of invaluable treasures, perhaps not material wealth, but something far more precious tied to identity and collective memory.
- Third Place: “Angel of Qurqumas” by Dina Jalabi. An evocative title that promises an intimate, perhaps spiritual, encounter within a specific, resonant context.
These winning narratives truly captivated the judges, demonstrating an ability to weave personal experience with broader cultural themes, turning individual memories into universal truths about belonging and identity.
Recognizing the Talents: Our Top Ten Finalists
Beyond the top three, ten other writers were recognized as finalists, each impressing the judges with their creativity, emotional depth, and masterful storytelling craft. These stories further enriched the competition’s diverse tapestry, showcasing the breadth of talent and perspective within Egypt.
In no particular order, these remarkable writers and their entries included:
- “When My Hips Learned to Speak Arabic” — Atiqah Ghazali-alKashif
- “Crossing the Threshold, Where Two Worlds Meet” — Rowan Mustafa Mohammed Mahrous
- “Zaghroutas, Joy, & Belonging” — Nour Walid
- “Interweaving History: The Palace of Splendors” — Salma Hashem
- “Finding My Own Source” — Rina Kusmala Abou Hashish
- “‘Eish wa-Malḥ (Bread and Salt)” — Kira Weiss
- “Roots Beyond the Sea: A Saidi Girl’s Journey Through Heritage and Memory” — Gehad Abdalla
- “Whispers of Belonging” — Rawan Khedr
- “My Coptic Egypt” — Tia W Nashed
- “Where Will They Bury Me?” — Jana Abdel Aty
Each of these titles alone sparks imagination, hinting at the rich narratives they contain. From the physicality of cultural expression to the deep-seated questions of identity and legacy, these finalists contributed significantly to the competition’s success.
More Than Just a Competition: A Platform for Connection
While only thirteen submissions received formal recognition at the ceremony, the Egyptian Streets team was genuinely moved by the exceptional quality of stories received overall. It’s important to stress that many entries that didn’t place in the top group still left a profound impression and are certainly deserving of being shared. This competition unearthed a wealth of authentic voices, each with a story to tell about Egypt.
The journey of these “Timeless Tales” doesn’t end with the awards ceremony. In the coming months, Egyptian Streets is committed to publishing all thirteen recognized entries, allowing a wider audience to experience these captivating narratives. But the commitment goes even further. The team will also be considering additional stories from the competition to be published on the Egyptian Streets website, reinforcing its ongoing dedication to spotlighting personal storytelling and cultural reflection.
This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of the partners. A sincere gratitude goes out to FairTrade Egypt and Bibliothek Egypt for their generosity, collaboration, and shared commitment to uplifting Egyptian voices and celebrating local crafts. Their involvement helped transform this competition from a simple writing contest into a vibrant community event, fostering creativity and a deeper appreciation for heritage.
To every single person who took the time, courage, and effort to submit their story – thank you. You have not only shared a piece of yourselves but have also helped to bring Egypt’s rich and diverse heritage to life in ways that will undoubtedly resonate with readers for years to come. Your voices are invaluable.
Stay Tuned for the Tales!
The “Timeless Tales” competition has beautifully demonstrated the enduring power of personal narrative in preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. It reminds us that history isn’t just dates and names; it’s the lived experiences, the whispered traditions, and the deeply felt connections that continue to shape who we are. As these stories begin to be published, prepare to be transported, moved, and enlightened by the incredible richness that defines Egypt.
Stay tuned to Egyptian Streets as we embark on this exciting journey of sharing these winning and selected stories soon. You won’t want to miss them.
