As someone deeply invested in the preservation of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage, Eman Zidan has experienced the British Council’s influence both personally and professionally. Over the years, the British Council has provided opportunities that have helped her grow as a professional in the museum sector while also impacting the broader field of cultural heritage in Egypt.
Through various partnerships and programmes, Eman has been able to explore new horizons, build networks, and develop strategies that support museums across the country. Her journey with the British Council began through workshops and projects that focused on cultural leadership and innovation. One of the key projects was the Cultural Leadership Innovation in the MENA Region programme in 2013, followed by participation in the Museum Training Academy in the UK. Over the years, she visited several UK institutions, including UCL London, Newcastle, and Liverpool, where she learned about strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement.
These experiences helped her broaden her understanding of the museum sector and build connections with museum professionals worldwide.
For Eman, the support from the British Council’s Arts and Culture Director in Egypt, Cathy Costain, was pivotal in shaping her professional development. “Her guidance and continuous support throughout the years have been crucial. Whether it was putting me in contact with relevant people or offering advice on how to apply what I’d learned, the impact of this mentorship has been significant,” she said.
The skills Eman gained, particularly in strategic thinking, planning, and the power of networking, have had a lasting impact. “These tools helped me establish key partnerships and ensure that projects were successful and sustainable. They also changed how I approach my work—I’ve become more structured and focused, which has helped in achieving long-term results.”
On her work with the British Council, Eman has said, “the British Council has played such a crucial role in my journey. I’m excited to explore new opportunities with them in the future.”