Complete with stories, quizzes, and facts about Arab Games Doha 2011, Wathnan children’s magazine is Arab Games Organising Committee’s latest addition to its wide range of creative initiatives designed for the youth in Qatar, as means of involving them in the upcoming sporting event.
An interactive, comic book style, activity book, the magazine was introduced during the launch of the 5th Schools Olympic Program. A total of three issues will be published from now until the start of Arab Games Doha 2011, which will run from December 9th-23rd, 2011, in Qatar.
“The purpose of this magazine is to stimulate thinking and creativity in young children, as they learn about an event that is both socially and culturally important to Arabs,” said Abdulla al-Mulla, Director, Media & Broadcasting, AGOC.
“With such exciting activities tailored especially for the youth, AGOC aims to go beyond sports, encouraging students to experience different aspects of arts and culture through their involvement in Arab Games Doha 2011. Similarly, during games time, the Arab Games will demonstrate more than sporting action; it will bring together live music, culture and arts, with events and stunning performances to entertain all ages,” he said.
Titled after Wathnan, the official mascot of Arab Games Doha 2011, the magazine features the traditional, versatile-looking Arabian horse on the front cover. Wathnan is symbolic of the shared heritage of the nations which are to compete in Doha during the Arab world’s most anticipated multisport event.
Artist and editor at Classic Dream Advertising, Ahmed al-Maadeed, who is behind the content of Wathnan magazine, said, “Working on this magazine and with AGOC has been a true pleasure. I enjoyed creating something I knew would have a positive impact on the children in Qatar and would instil in them the Olympic values of excellence, fair competition, and friendship,” he said.
According to AGOC, the support of government and private organisations in Qatar is essential to ensure that the magazine reaches as many children as possible.
“We will cooperate with government and private companies to distribute the magazine to as many children as possible,” said Hassan Abdulla al-Mohammadi, Manager, Promotions, AGOC. “Complimentary copies of the magazine will also be available in all QOC booths in the shopping malls in Qatar, including Villaggio, Landmark, and City Center malls,” he said.