
The Culture Counter
THE CULTURE COUNTER - Introducing you to some of the most interesting conversations and debates we have about the arts, from our region and beyond, right here from the heart of The Arts Club Dubai. The first international outpost of the historic London private members’ club, The Arts Club Dubai is located in DIFC’s ICD Brookfield Place. The Arts Club was founded in London in 1863 by men of vision, to be a haven for a community of people all connected by their love for the Arts. It has evolved to become a vibrant hub for creative and entrepreneurial members, providing an environment in which they can entertain, exchange ideas and participate in a rich cultural programme of events. The Arts Club Dubai shares this same vision, giving Dubai a unique concept for an extraordinary new membership. For more information, please visit www.theartsclub.ae
The Culture Counter
A Founder's Story: How Butheina Kazim built Cinema Akil
Butheina Kazim decided to work in cinema 15 years ago and planted the seeds that led to the founding of Cinema Akil in 2014 when she started showcasing independent films as nomadic cinematic interventions in various spaces around Dubai. At the time she was targeting a very small community of film afficionados. By 2018 Cinema Akil was a permanent venue and film sanctuary in Dubai, making it the GCC’s first ever arthouse cinema. Today, it is one of the best known, must-visit destination for film lovers across the region.
But where did it all start? Whether it be from their parents’ garage, from having had a life-changing conversation, or simply being in the right place at the right time, some of the best founding stories begin like hers. Listen to this fireside chat with one of the trailblazing founders of our region as she shares her extraordinary journey.
Moderator: Micallar Walker | CEO/Founder - Dark Matter