How did this grant contribute to the realization of your project in regard to artistic exchange, local cultural development and/or the promotion of cultural diversity?

I took part in Ubud International Writers & Readers Festival Oct. 3 - 7, 2012 as a writer/storyteller. The festival is organized by Saraswati Foundation for the Arts. I want to travel all the corners of the world sharing the experience of the ancient art of storytelling and inspire its revival in other cultures. Telling stories that prove that we are all alike no matter where we live on the globe. Situation in Egypt is not estable on all levels.

How does exchange, networking and international contacts contribute to the development of your artistic and cultural project?

During Ubud Writers and Readers Festival, I met hundreds of writers, storytellers, readers and musicians from all over the world. I participated in several panels discussions about writing and storytelling with several writers. I met a Mexican storyteller and we agreed to cooperate in a mutual work in the near future. Also I performed with "The Cambodian Space Project Band" and we both hope to meet in the future for further cooperation.

Can you elaborate on the learning and knowledge you have gained and shared throughout this experience?

Benefiting from my planned workshop in Indonesia, I came back with a famous Indonesian story which will be performed to Egyptian children/audience. Especially knowing that Indonesia is an Islamic country with different implementation of Islam than Arab countries and Egypt might be ruled by Islamic government in the near future.