Creating Socioeconomic Development through Culture and Heritage

4 December 2024. From 18:00 To 19:30 | Conference | English | Spanish | CaixaForum Macaya, Barcelona

In Tunisia, as in other Mediterranean countries, neglected historical sites and cultural heritage hold immense untapped potential for driving sustainable economic opportunities. These sites, often overlooked and left to decay, are rich reservoirs of history, craftsmanship, and identity that can be revitalized to benefit local communities. Engaging local artisans, involving communities in decision-making, and promoting the transmission of traditional skills to younger generations can transform these heritage sites into dynamic centers of economic and social renewal.

For decades, Leila Ben Gacem has been extremely active in engaging community members in the renovation of old historical sites in Tunisia, especially the Medina of Tunis, and then helps to integrate these spaces into the economy by transforming informal artisanal initiatives into sustainable businesses. Using online tools, Leila encourages people to be participants and co-creators of the renewal of their own Medinas. Apart from increasing citizen participation and increasing cultural confidence of Tunisians, her organisation, Blue Fish, is preserving heritage and creating a touristic competitive edge, while bringing hope and self-esteem to new generations. In recognition for these achievements, she received Fatma El Fehria Award in 2017, as well as the Women Entrepreneur in Cultural Sector Award.

A Med Dialogues 2030 session at the CaixaForum Macaya, Pg. de Sant Joan, 108, Barcelona. Free entrance with prior registration.