Student Voices on Heritage and Identity
Our latest EVOLV3 Round Table was an inspiring and thought-provoking experience, bringing together a diverse group of students from Years 9 to 12 to explore the theme - “Discovering Dubai’s Historic Urban Landscape: Students’ Perspectives on Place, Identity & Heritage.” Led by researcher and workshop facilitator Maria Karagouni, the session formed part of her master’s degree research and aimed to capture authentic youth perspectives on living and growing up in Dubai.
Through interactive table discussions, engaging visuals, and thematic rotations, students explored the tangible and intangible elements of Dubai’s rich heritage.
From historical sites like Al Fahidi and Hatta to the traditions that shape Emirati culture, students shared their knowledge and personal experiences with enthusiasm and insight. They also reflected on how their own cultures fit into Dubai’s multicultural tapestry and discussed how new trends and evolving cityscapes might be preserved as future heritage.
With over 90 minutes of meaningful dialogue, creative reflection, and cultural exchange, the session was a celebration of inclusion, identity, and student voice. It showcased the power of young minds in shaping conversations about the places we live and the histories we carry forward.
A special thank you to Maria Karagouni for selecting Horizon International School as a host for this valuable workshop and for including our students’ voices in her final research paper. We are proud to have contributed to such an important exploration of place and identity in the UAE.
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