Merex Investment shared that it has invited students from Dubai schools to take part in its sustainability programme at its lifestyle destinations – City Walk and The Beach, JBR.
The initiative launched in November 2023 with the aim of tackling both urban waste and marine pollution and will see six schools team up with Christine Wilson, a prominent sustainability artist and founder of Dubai-based design studio Peahead.eco, to transform waste and recycled materials into artwork that will be displayed at Merex Investment’s two destinations.
Some of the participating schools include Innoventures Education schools, including Raffles International School, Raffles World Academy, and the Collegiate International School. The initiative will see them utilise city waste to create an art installation. Meanwhile, Lycée Français International de l’AFLEC students will use similar materials such as fabric, plastic and glass to make their own sculptures.
Both works from the schools will be displayed at City Walk starting in April 2024.
At the same time, those from Innoventure Education’s Dubai International Academy Al Barsha and Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills will use ocean debris to design one modern geometric sculpture each.
The students will also participate in a boot camp featuring workshops and interactive sessions focused on recycling and sustainable practices.
Speaking about her participation, Christine Iris Wilson said: “I am thrilled to be part of this sustainability initiative by Merex Investment where young minds in Dubai will transform waste and learn about sustainable materials creating something meaningful. As an artist, my focus has always been on adding value and aesthetic appeal to materials that would otherwise be discarded. This project allows me to work with students to delve into that creative process and show them that art has the power to convey powerful messages and can educate the public about mindful consumption while still being fun. I hope that, together, we can leave a positive and lasting impact on both the local community and the broader discourse on eco-conscious living.”
Poonam Bhojani, CEO of Innoventures Education, commented: “We are delighted to have our students participate in this innovative programme by Merex Investment. As collaborative team members and caring members of the community, Innoventures Education students were a natural choice to co-create these installations made from enviornmental waste. Through this artistic collaboration, our students will not only garner valuable experience in teamwork and strategic thinking, but will also hopefully contribute to much large national goals of living sustainably and having a positive impact on the planet. We cannot wait to see the exciting outcomes of this collaboration.”
Bertrand Malifarges of Lycée Français International de l’AFLEC said: “We extend our gratitude to Merex Investment for providing our students with this enriching opportunity. Our children are not only creating innovative installations using waste and recycled materials but also becoming agents of positive change. The UAE stands at the forefront of global sustainability endeavours, and we must all play a role in advancing this cause. This initiative perfectly encapsulates our commitment to providing students with an education that goes beyond the classroom so that they can sculpt a brighter more sustainable future for everyone.”