On Saturday, February 22, SCLC proudly unveiled another milestone moment in cultural storytelling and artistic expression at Heritage Horizons2025, a spectacular event held in Al Qana Abu Dhabi.
The activation style and content at Heritage Horizons was a testament to SCLC’s unique signature and dedicated vision of bridging cultures and connecting generations, proving that heritage is not confined to a single sector, niche, or demographic. Culture is a living entity, evolving through shared experiences, dialogue, and artistic expression. The event reinforced this through a series of immersive activities, highlighting SCLC’s pioneering role in fostering appreciation for cultural narratives beyond borders.
With the first-ever proud flight of the Sarimanok in the UAE and the Middle East stage, SCLC introduced “Sarimanok Rising: The Song of Waters”, a breathtaking original script by SCLC COO and Creative Director JunalAbdullah Lami-in, brought to life through the dynamically stirring choreography of Egie ‘Kawai’ Esma and the flamboyantly mesmerizing interpretation of the United Cebuanos Performing Arts Corps together with the SULU group of FIPA Schools UAE under the tutelage of Ms.Swettie Omondang . Of course it cannot be without our regular vocal powerhouses of France, Zack, Jaja and Emma, with the entire production’s music arranged by Jose Amaca. The entire production came to life with the giant LED depicting seemingly live backgrounds as interpreted by graphics motion artist David Mendoza. This latest landmark event celebrated the interwoven narratives of the Sarimanok—a revered symbol of JunalAbdullah’s Maranao and Mindanawan culture—and its universal resonance across global traditions, values and hope.
A key highlight of the day was the extemporaneous and on-the-spot painting competition, which saw participation from five prestigious and competitive schools, namely FIPA UAE, SRK Education Group, SRA Institute, BathSpa RAK and FSTC with 19 and 14 participants for each competition, showcasing the raw and remarkable quick intellect and talent of young participants. The judges, esteemed artists JP Faderagao and Jomar Managuelod, intellects April M., Mary Elizabeth D. and CJ E. were hard pressed on whom and which to choose given the content and spirit shown by the participants.
Their discourses and interpretations of heritage, identity, and unity captivated audiences, reaffirming the importance of youth engagement in cultural storytelling. These students, with their diverse backgrounds and unique perspectives, translated cultural themes into stunning visual masterpieces, arrived at compelling and satisfying verbal discourse proving that creativity is a universal language
Adding depth and intellectual discourse to the event was a high-caliber symposium, featuring distinguished speakers Sana Bagersh, Sofia Fonseca, Mary Elizabeth Diab, and Cipriano Ryan Mayor who delved into timely global, social, and cultural concerns. These thought leaders engaged in meaningful discussions on the intersection of tradition and modernity, the role of storytelling in cultural preservation, and the urgent need for sustained intercultural dialogue in today’s rapidly evolving world. The symposium underscored that culture and heritage are not static relics of the past, but dynamic forces shaping contemporary societies and future generations.
At its core, Heritage Horizons was more than an event—it was, and is a movement. A movement that echoes and spearheads SCLC’s unwavering commitment to celebrating cultural diversity, fostering mutual understanding, and elevating heritage beyond mere preservation into active participation. By introducing the Sarimanok and the profound story behind original script “The Song of Waters” to the UAE and the Middle East, SCLC not only honored an age-old legend but also created a platform for meaningful cultural exchange.
SCLC also conferred their first-ever set of awards and recognitions at this event, honoring individuals and institutions whose contributions go beyond the ordinary in championing intercultural unity, understanding, and acceptance. Three individual recipients were Dr. Mary Jane Alvero AlMahdi, Sana Bagersh and Dr.Richard Paolo Deluria, and the three institutional/corporate awardees e recognized for their exceptional efforts in ensuring the continuous transmission of cultural living heritage and values in their respective fields were TEEM Studio, MAG Events and FIPA Schools.
SCLC remains at the forefront of these initiatives, continuously championing the beauty of shared heritage and the power of artistic expression to bridge divides. With every activation, symposium, workshop, teambuilding, and creative endeavor, SCLC reinforces the message that culture is not just about looking back—it is about moving forward together. The essential keyword being Together and Support for these activations from business and academic sectors, entities and institutions around us.
AND THE JOURNEY CONTINUES! A Legacy of Culture, Wellness, and Unity – Designed and Led by SCLC This coming October, SCLC invites everyone to support and join together as one in the upcoming Heritage Horizons: Folkloric Heritage and Values, the Culture of Wellness and Unity. This exciting innovation focuses on the heritage and value of cure, overall wellness, mental health, and sustainability, bringing people together through the richness of cultural traditions. Look out for more to follow.
Heritage Horizons2025 is part of a three year introductory launch together with other SCLC initiatives. For media inquiries, collaborations, or to learn more about SCLC’s upcoming initiatives, please contact: info@sclcacs.com / projects@sclcacs.com /+97156 9771889
