As Qatar continues to encourage youth engagement and sustainability, cultural organisations are helping young people learn important life values through heritage, sport and community service.
One of them is Kenya Green Maasai Qatar (KGMQ), which uses Maasai traditions to promote cultural understanding, environmental awareness and social responsibility.
Through school visits, partnerships with local tourism organisations, and participation in cultural and sporting events, KGMQ introduces children and young people to Kenyan culture in an engaging and interactive way.
Samuel Kiragu, a member of KGMQ, said participants take part in Kenyan cultural dances, storytelling, traditional games and cultural demonstrations, giving them a chance to experience Maasai traditions firsthand.
“These interactive activities promote respect for cultural diversity, teamwork and mutual understanding while introducing key Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, gender equality and environmental conservation,” Kiragu told Gulf Times.
He said the programmes also teach the Green Maasai values of community, respect for nature and shared responsibility, helping young people become more aware of other cultures and the environment.
Kiragu added that preserving culture is not only about keeping traditions alive but also about helping young people become responsible members of society.
Another KGMQ member, Catherine Kamau, said culture and sport are effective ways to encourage unity, leadership and respect among young people.
“Kenya Green Maasai Qatar inspires young people by using Maasai culture and sport to promote unity, respect, leadership and pride in their heritage,” she said.
Kamau noted that cultural performances at international events allow young people to celebrate diversity while proudly representing Kenya and learning to appreciate other cultures.
She added that the organisation also involves young people in community clean-up drives, volunteer work and environmental awareness activities, encouraging them to care for the environment and give back to the community.
According to Kamau, these activities support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to education, gender equality and environmental protection.
As Qatar continues to host international cultural events, KGMQ believes culture and sport can help bring communities together while encouraging young people to become responsible and active members of society. For the organisation, every cultural performance, traditional game and volunteer activity is another opportunity to teach respect, teamwork and care for the environment while building friendships across cultures.
