These are the new Saudi faces. Hailing from the fast-changing Kingdom, they are leaving their mark on a burgeoning cultural scene. Multifaceted, ambitious and raring to go, you’ll be seeing a lot of these faces in the coming years.
Osama Afesh
Model, 20
Where are you from and what’s it like?
I’m from Saudi Arabia. It’s such a unique place full of culture and friendly, ambitious people who are always willing to help other people to succeed.
What is the most important thing happening in culture right now?
The most important thing happening now is the fast growth of Saudi Arabia in all different fields and the sheer amount of opportunities that are waiting to be used by the ambitious new generation.
What do you want to achieve?
What’s your dream? My dream is to be one of the top models in the fashion industry and help to export my country’s vibrant culture.
Images Supplied
Sara Al Ghesheyan
Filmmaker, 28
Where are you from and what’s it like?
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is crowded with a lot of hard-working people.
Describe your generation…
Woke and outspoken
Who do you consider to be the voice of your generation?
Everyone’s voice is important. With the new generation being so outspoken, I think it’s crucial to always listen to your own voice and follow what you think is right for you.
Mowaffaq Ali
Film Director, 30
Where are you from and what’s it like?
I am from the Republic of Sudan, but I was born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. Saudi Arabia is my home, but I have always been rooted in my country and heritage.
Describe your generation…
My generation can’t be defined in a word, in a sentence, or even a paragraph. All you need to do is find what you excel in and move in that direction. You are free to be who you want.
When do you feel most confident?
I feel most confident when I work on my life’s plan and goals because I know there’s no limit to one’s dreams. The first time I felt the power of self-confidence was when I directed and filmed my first indie commercial and it went viral.
Abdullah Ali
Model, 29
Where are you from and what’s it like?
I’m an East African based in Saudi Arabia. I believe Saudi is WANA’s (West Asia & North Africa) gem. It features diverse cultures due to its geographic placement. The locals share a strong moral code and cultural excellence, including hospitality, loyalty, and a sense of responsibility to assist their community.
Describe your generation…
Rebellion, uncertain, vocal, accepting, passionate, and driven.
When do you feel most confident?
Whenever I am in action. And I am always in action.
What do you want to achieve? What’s your dream?
I want to impact today’s youth, not as a leader but as someone they can look up to, relate to, and feel inspired by. My dream is to live in a world that does not judge individuals by their nationality, race, financial state, beliefs etc. A free world based on equality.
Photography SAFWAN FULANI
Dorar
DJ, 24
Where are you from and what’s it like?
I’m from the coastal city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. There’s a charm about this place because it’s very multicultural. People came from all around a long time ago and found a home in this city. They incorporated their traditions and heritages, creating a unique, diverse and laid-back way of life. There’s a lot to appreciate
here – a lot of characters, prominent personalities, new opportunities, and places waiting to be explored.
Describe your generation…
Bold, assertive, empathetic, diverse & accepting. Those are the main words that come to mind. There’s a paradox in us being the “digital natives” where we grew up with social media. It can be easily assumed that we’ll become adults who are out of touch with reality – but I honestly believe it’s the opposite. In my generation, people thrive on self-expression and the freedom to have their own individual styles and personalities. We seek the truth, stand for what we believe in, and use our voices and opportunities to communicate that to the world.
Who do you consider to be the voice of your generation?
I don’t consider anybody to be the voice of our generation. I think that’s what’s powerful about living in our digital age – we’re globalised and interconnected, and that voice can be many things. It all depends on personal interests and influences.
Nouf Sufyani aka Cosmic Cat
DJ and Music Producer, 28
Where are you from and what’s it like?
I’m from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It’s the equivalent of LA in the states in our region, with so many local artists, filmmakers and musicians. Jeddah
is the home for many prominent musicians, old & new, and the birthplace of many new and upcoming trends.
Describe your generation…
I was born in the early 90s. This generation is unique because they were the last
to know life without the internet. We witnessed so many life-changing global events in our lifetime. We are the initiative of change for the future.
This is your chance to speak out. What have you got to say?
Saudis have talent. Saudis are incredibly gifted in various fields, from entrepreneurship and art to technology and so much more. They are capable of changing the world, and I am proud to be part of this historic movement.
Bayan Kurdi
Model, 26
Where are you from and what’s it like?
I’m from Saudi Arabia. I love it here. It is constantly developing and changing.
Describe your generation…
My generation is open, wild, and loves challenges.
What do you want to achieve? What’s your dream?
Since I’m a model, I’d like to experience being a model in a music video and becoming an actor. My dream is to own a brand one day.
A version of this story appeared in YUNG Issue 0.
