Cultural Seminar

District95 Egypt and Jordan
Cultural Seminar

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the fourth book club meeting of the
2024-2025 program took place, centered around the theme “A Heart
Beating with Humanity.” This enriching cultural event was organized by
the Inner Wheel Club of New Cairo, under the leadership of Lina Shaker,
in collaboration with the Inner Wheel Club of Nasr City. Jihan Al-Gumai,
honorary secretary, attended on behalf of President Gihan Michel,
joining a distinguished literary discussion hosted by Ahmed
Al-Qarmalawi, a renowned writer and publishing director of Al-Diwan
House, a publishing house famous for its graphic novel adaptations of
Naguib Mahfouz’s works.

The focal point of the meeting was Children of Our Alley, the Nobel
Prize-winning novel by the legendary Naguib Mahfouz. This masterpiece,
rich in symbolism, plot development, and imagery, explores the eternal
struggle between good and evil through a deeply layered narrative.
Mahfouz’s unique ability to simplify complex themes allows readers to
engage in deep analysis and personal reflection, using an Egyptian
neighborhood as a microcosm for broader philosophical and societal
discussions.

The event was attended by esteemed members of District 95’s Board of
Directors, including Hanaa Sadat, Mervat Al-Azouni, deputy chairwoman of
District 95, Omnia Hanna, honorary secretary of District 95, as well as
Mona Abu Al-Futouh, Hala Hagras, and Noura Fayek, all former District 95
presidents. A special acknowledgment was given to Siham El-Gohary, a
past member of the International Inner Wheel Board of Directors, as she
was formally congratulated on her new role as president of the Board of
Directors of the Heliopolis Library. In recognition of this achievement,
she was presented with a commemorative gift.

The event also welcomed Dina Nashed, assistant governor of Rotary, Hilmi
Al-Saeed, past president of Rotary Nasr City Club, as well as members
from various Rotary clubs, book club members, and their guests.

Before concluding the meeting, Ahmed Al-Qarmalawi delighted attendees
with a beautiful oud performance, showcasing his musical talent as a
heartfelt gift. To commemorate the gathering, Nihal ElBakry, founder of
the Book Club and past deputy national representative, presented a
symbolic gift to the writer and distributed gifts to attendees in
celebration of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan.

This event was a testament to the Inner Wheel Club of New Cairo and the
Inner Wheel Club of Nasr City’s shared commitment to fostering
cultural enrichment, intellectual dialogue, and community engagement.