Najat Al-Showafi

Basement Cultural Foundation

Basement is a non-profit, independent cultural foundation, founded in Sana'a in 2009 with its first activity "Knowledge exchange Forum". It seeks to create an artistic space and atmosphere that enables youth (beginners, hobbyists, professionals) to display and develop their abilities . It also provides youth with unique opportunities to support their creativity and help them introducing themselves to the Yemeni society . In brief, Basement is an interactive space that bridges the gap between the young artists and public audience and strengthens bridges of communication with the society. Basement is a free platform for art, cultural and social activities. It has been registered as an official civil foundation in 2012. Basement aims to create positive change in the Yemeni society by increasing community participation. We work on fostering volunteerism activities and work on raising awareness in the community on issues of culture, society, and politics. Basement is self funded and sustainable from members and volunteers contributions. Basement is not just the work team. Therefore, anyone who offers any work for basement or participates in basement's activities, including the public, is considered as a Basement's member. Our vision is to contribute to the social and cultural development of Yemeni society and to adopt values of liberty, equality and peaceful coexistence. We develop the artistic skills and talents of youth and encourage them to exchange their knowledge and professional experiences. Basement is an independent civil society organization which does not set quality standards or conditions for any work that is required to be allowed to bid. Basement does not follow a political direction, a cultural school, or a certain intellectual orientation.