The opening was presented by known TV host Sherif Madkour and featured many of the forum’s participants showcasing their various talents alongside professional artists, including Moroccan star Samira Said, who collaborated with the budding artists in her new song ‘Gehaz Tasgeil.’

A number of ambassadors, artists, journalists, and cultural personas attended the opening that was directed by renowned Walid Awny to show their support for special needs talents and put their cause in the limelight.

With 32 countries participating in the event, various art forms will be presented in workshops, masterclasses, and performances.

Running until 23 November under the slogan of ‘Rejoice… Together’, the forum this year is also allowing budding artists to meet artists from the Afro-Chinese Arts and Folklore Festival, which is also taking place during the forum

Many renowned artists from different disciplines will be participating in workshops, juries, and various activities, including directors Omar Abdel-Aziz, Attiya Adel Khairy, and Hisham Atwa; actors Hala Sedky and Latifa Fahmy; composer Sherif Gad; and artists Morad Darwisch, Carelle Homsy, Amina Salem, Neamat El-Diwany, and Mohamed Khedr.

Under the helm of forum president Sohir Abdel-Qader, the mission of Awladna is to develop and enrich the talents of gifted individuals “through cultural interaction…and by emphasising their cultural and artistic achievements.”

Backed by the country’s President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, the event, sponsored by both the state and the private sector as well as international entities, is mainly taking place in Cairo, with some activities set to be held in other cities, including Al-Fayoum and Al-Alamein.