On October 24th, we celebrated our Annual Autumn Festival on SEKEM’s farm near Belbies, marking the beginning of a new season with a heartwarming gathering. This year’s festival, themed “Organizational Development,” highlighted SEKEM Vision Goal No. 14: Integral Organizational Development and Leadership. The event united our diverse community—employees, teachers, students, farmers, artists and even some of SEKEM’s partners and friends from Austria, Germany and the Netherlands—who came together to celebrate our shared values and aspirations.
For the past six months, SEKEM companies and Heliopolis University have focused their efforts on advancing Vision Goal No. 14, which aligns with the organization’s ambitious vision for Egypt 2057. Various teams and departments have collaborated to turn pressing challenges into opportunities for growth. During the recent festival, attendees were inspired by impactful speeches and performances that highlighted the outcomes of our collective work. SEKEM school children and employees captivated us with creative presentations that illustrated their vision for achieving the organization’s goals, reinforcing SEKEM’s commitment to nurturing potential at every stage of life.
Emphasizing Selflessness and Discipline
The festival celebrated the profound impact of selflessness and discipline, underscoring the significance of placing collective objectives above individual desires. At SEKEM, we embody these principles, firmly believing that collaborative efforts can lead to remarkable achievements and foster a more sustainable future.
Celebrating Milestones: Seven Years at SEKEM
A particularly touching segment of the festival honored community members who have been part of SEKEM for seven years. These individuals received tokens of appreciation for their dedication and commitment. One honoree beautifully remarked, “Just as we celebrate a newborn seven days after its birth, SEKEM celebrates us after seven years of being part of it.” This sentiment encapsulates the deep sense of belonging fostered within our community.
A Tradition of Celebration: SEKEM’s Spring and Autumn Festivals
For 47 years, SEKEM has upheld the cherished tradition of celebrating the arrival of spring and autumn with community festivals that embody joy and unity. These seasonal celebrations are more than mere events; they embody our holistic approach to life, which fosters a deep connection with nature and promotes community well-being. Notably, SEKEM’s founder, Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish, was born in spring; thus, celebrating his birthday during the spring festival serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy.
The festivals bring together employees, students, and friends from near and far, fostering a vibrant sense of community and cultural exchange. They feature an array of performances, music, art, and other cultural activities that reflect SEKEM’s values and aspirations.