The Cultural Development Fund (CDF) hosted the 2025 "Storytellers" Suhoor, bringing together high-ranking officials, cultural and development sector leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators across various cultural fields.
The gathering is part of the fund’s ongoing efforts to strengthen connections within the cultural sector, explore new opportunities, and support the sector’s exceptional momentum. As a key financial enabler, the CDF continues to play a vital role in nurturing Saudi culture and inspiring creativity.
The evening featured a keynote speech by CDF Chief Executive Majed Al-Hogail, followed by remarks from representatives of the Elite Chefs Center, the team behind the "CHEFPreneur" program—one of the initiatives supported by the fund. The event also celebrated 42 graduates of the program, recognizing their successful completion of the training journey.
The CHEFPreneur program is a specialized training initiative designed to equip aspiring chefs with both culinary expertise and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to launch their own projects and establish competitive businesses in the field.
In line with its commitment to supporting projects it has enabled, the CDF showcased several beneficiary projects during the event, allowing guests to experience their creative offerings firsthand.
Held in a distinctive Ramadan atmosphere, the gathering included cultural activities aligned with the Year of Handicrafts 2025. Guests engaged in traditional craft experiences such as prayer bead-making and henna art, while a special art exhibition featured works by visual artist and craftswoman Naifah Alshahrani. Inspired by the traditional Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, the exhibition paid tribute to the rich heritage of southern Saudi Arabia. The interplay of colors and intricate details added a unique artistic touch to the evening.
This marks the third consecutive year the CDF has hosted the "Storytellers" event. The 2025 edition was held at AlMashtal Creative Incubator—one of the fund’s beneficiaries—reinforcing its ongoing support for cultural entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the cultural landscape. The event also aimed to strengthen strategic partnerships with government entities, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations to drive the sustainable growth of the cultural sector, ultimately contributing to economic development and enhancing quality of life.
