Abd Alraheem Abdulaziz Mohammed

2022 IVLP Impact Award Project: Sebha Cultural FestivalLibya

Abd Alraheem Abdulaziz Mohammed and his family faced several difficulties as a result of the widespread dispersal of weapons and discontent among citizens following the Libyan Revolution in 2011. Abd Alraheem Abdulaziz then worked to establish a civil society organization that brought together young people from different races and tribes with the goal of reducing conflict and accepting peoples' differences. By fielding debates, establishing trainings and encouraging involvement in humanitarian aid, Abd Alraheem Abdulaziz has exposed ways of uniting people divided.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Sebha Cultural Festival 

As the capital of the Libyan southwest and the capital of the historic Fezzan region, Sebha is rich in cultural diversity. With different cultural and linguistic features forming such a unique social mosaic, the Sebha Cultural Festival seeks to highlight the role of culture and arts in promoting peace building and coexistence. The project was a celebration of common cultural heritage and hosted 400 total attendees.

The project focused on creating spaces for community members to meet and share cultural differences by offering a platform for various activities, including:

  • Performances by singing groups from the Tuareg, Arab and Tebu tribes, as well as other bands
  • Poetry readings
  • Theatrical performances on contemporary Sebha society
  • Scientific papers on culture and history
  • Exhibitions of cultural collectibles

This project brough a very positive atmosphere to the community, spread culture and diversity, and briefly brought together groups experiencing political and social tension. It promoted the celebration of the rich culture of the city of Sebha.

"This festival is the best opportunity for meeting and brotherhood...the Municipal Council encourages the implementation of such initiatives in the future." - Attendee

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Abdulaziz was a participant in the IVLP Project Young Leaders RISE in 2021, organized by the U.S. Department of State and the Institute for International Education.

His exchange experience led to the development of his IVLP Impact Award Project: "I really like the idea of being a member of a program that includes people from different parts of the world who are united by one idea, which is getting to know different cultures."

U.S. Communities Visited Virtually

Washington, DC; Detroit, MI; Philadelphia, PA

Country: Libya

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