From Al-Ahsa to Milan: How Did Tehani Al-Nuwais Reach Global Success?

 

Tehani Al-Nuwais graduated with a degree in Business Administration, a field that instilled in her an unlimited ambition and a dream that went beyond simply securing a job. She aspired to leave her mark in the world of business and finance by establishing her own venture that reflected her passion and aspirations. However, after graduation, she found herself with an abundance of free time stretching as far as her dreams, yet without anything tangible to fill it. Ambition alone was not enough—she needed tools and a well-thought-out plan.

During her journey of self-discovery, Tehani came across a registration link for the Handicrafts Program at Bait Al-Hirafiyeen (House of Artisans), an initiative under the Heritage Commission, managed and operated by the Abdulmonem Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation. She felt that this opportunity could be the first step toward discovering a new passion, so she decided to enroll, dreaming of mastering the art of handicrafts while adding a modern touch to keep up with contemporary trends.

The program lasted nine months, offering a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and practical training. This experience provided Tehani with a genuine opportunity to refine her skills. She describes this transformative phase by saying:
"Joining Bait Al-Hirafiyeen was a turning point in my life. It was the first true supporter of my journey, and my mentor constantly encouraged and guided me. Under her supervision, I learned multiple skills, from drawing and sculpting to carving and creating artistic pieces in various sizes and styles."

Today, Tehani has become an ambassador for handicrafts both inside and outside Al-Ahsa, mastering this art with excellence. She did not stop at just learning but took on the responsibility of developing and reviving traditional craftsmanship in a modern way. Her dream is to establish her own business with a fully integrated team of skilled artisans, exporting their creations to the world.

Her passion was not just a fleeting dream; it turned into a tangible reality. Tehani began designing artistic pieces for private entities, ranging from retail stores and cafés to hospitals. As her work gained recognition and popularity, her ambitions grew even further. She was nominated to attend exclusive events and received invitations from major organizations. One of the most significant milestones in her journey was being selected by the Ministry of Culture, represented by the Heritage Commission, to participate in a cultural trip to Milan, Italy, where she showcased and promoted her work on an international stage. Yet, for Tehani, this is just the beginning—her vision extends beyond Milan, reaching the Gulf region and the entire world.

Tehani concludes her story with gratitude, saying:
"I extend my deepest thanks to the Abdulmonem Al-Rashed Humanitarian Foundation and everyone who has supported my journey."

Tehani’s story is a testament that dreams require faith and determination—and that the best is yet to come.