Ms. Shatha Ali
1. Could you share a bit about your background and what led you to pursue a career in heritage?
I am an Architect from Bahrain with a deep passion for heritage and culture. My journey began at the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, where I documented the facades of the historic houses along the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This experience ignited my commitment to preserving our cultural legacy, leading me to pursue a masters degree in World Heritage Studies at BTU. I am currently a Programme Officer at the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage, a Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO based in Bahrain.
2. We’re thrilled to have you join us at WHIPIC. What are you most excited about as part of this fellowship program?
I am truly excited to learn more about the Korean Culture and the dynamic work environment at WHIPIC. I see this as a unique opportunity to expand my professional network and experiences, which I hope to bring back and reflect in my work in Bahrain.
World Heritage Site in Bahrain (1)
3. From your perspective, what role does interpretation and presentation play in preserving World Heritage?
Interpretation and presentation are vital to preserving World Heritage; they help us grasp its significance and connect with our history and identity. When we genuinely appreciate the value of our heritage, it fuels our motivation to protect it for future generations.
4. Are there specific projects or initiatives you’re eager to work on at WHIPIC?
I am eager to build upon the collaborative projects between ARC-WH and WHIPIC, focusing on interpretation and presentation in the Arab region. I look forward to learning from your remarkable team and researching best practices from Korean World Heritage sites.
World Heritage Site in Bahrain (2)
5. What are your hopes for WHIPIC’s impact on World Heritage communities in the coming years?
I hope WHIPIC’s work in interpretation and presentation is recognized for its profound impact not only on heritage preservation but also on the communities connected to that heritage. It’s about preserving and presenting their stories, histories and identities, which is essential for promoting a richer understanding of our world.
6. If you could leave a legacy as WHIPIC’s fellow, what would you want it to be?
I aspire to leave a meaningful legacy that reflects my country and its culture and values. I hope to forge lasting friendships with incredible people along this journey, creating bonds that transcend borders.
7. What advice would you give to those aspiring to contribute to the field of heritage interpretation and presentation?
Heritage Interpretation and presentation is an emerging field, and it’s crucial that we approach it with an open mind. Embrace the diversity of cultures and be willing to learn from each other; understanding is key to moving forward in preserving our heritage. Also, apply for the next round of WHIPIC’s International Fellowship Programme and I promise you will learn a lot about this field.
Ms. Shatha Ali
1. Could you share a bit about your background and what led you to pursue a career in heritage?
I am an Architect from Bahrain with a deep passion for heritage and culture. My journey began at the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, where I documented the facades of the historic houses along the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This experience ignited my commitment to preserving our cultural legacy, leading me to pursue a masters degree in World Heritage Studies at BTU. I am currently a Programme Officer at the Arab Regional Centre for World Heritage, a Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO based in Bahrain.
2. We’re thrilled to have you join us at WHIPIC. What are you most excited about as part of this fellowship program?
I am truly excited to learn more about the Korean Culture and the dynamic work environment at WHIPIC. I see this as a unique opportunity to expand my professional network and experiences, which I hope to bring back and reflect in my work in Bahrain.
World Heritage Site in Bahrain (1)
3. From your perspective, what role does interpretation and presentation play in preserving World Heritage?
Interpretation and presentation are vital to preserving World Heritage; they help us grasp its significance and connect with our history and identity. When we genuinely appreciate the value of our heritage, it fuels our motivation to protect it for future generations.
4. Are there specific projects or initiatives you’re eager to work on at WHIPIC?
I am eager to build upon the collaborative projects between ARC-WH and WHIPIC, focusing on interpretation and presentation in the Arab region. I look forward to learning from your remarkable team and researching best practices from Korean World Heritage sites.
World Heritage Site in Bahrain (2)
5. What are your hopes for WHIPIC’s impact on World Heritage communities in the coming years?
I hope WHIPIC’s work in interpretation and presentation is recognized for its profound impact not only on heritage preservation but also on the communities connected to that heritage. It’s about preserving and presenting their stories, histories and identities, which is essential for promoting a richer understanding of our world.
6. If you could leave a legacy as WHIPIC’s fellow, what would you want it to be?
I aspire to leave a meaningful legacy that reflects my country and its culture and values. I hope to forge lasting friendships with incredible people along this journey, creating bonds that transcend borders.
7. What advice would you give to those aspiring to contribute to the field of heritage interpretation and presentation?
Heritage Interpretation and presentation is an emerging field, and it’s crucial that we approach it with an open mind. Embrace the diversity of cultures and be willing to learn from each other; understanding is key to moving forward in preserving our heritage. Also, apply for the next round of WHIPIC’s International Fellowship Programme and I promise you will learn a lot about this field.