Teen Talk: Inside Out

Location: Kutubna Cultural Center, Madina Avenues, Nadd Al Hamar, Dubai

In this workshop teens will explore the gap between how they  appear on the outside and what they feel on the inside, focusing on emotional masking, social belonging, and healthy self-expression. In a safe, stigma-free space, participants are guided to recognize and name their emotions while building healthier emotional habits. The session includes a hands-on activity where teens create a personalized Feelings First Aid Kit using trinket tins—decorating the outside to reflect how they present themselves and filling the inside with hidden emotions, affirmations, and grounding tools. Blending research-informed discussion with creativity, attendees also receive a tote bag, stickers, and a complimentary magazine, leaving with both insight and tangible reminders that their feelings matter—inside and out.

Meet the Contributor
The HOPE Project is a youth-led mental health initiative based in Dubai and India that focuses on normalising everyday conversations around mental health in schools and community spaces through creative, accessible education. Rather than aiming to fix individuals, the project prioritises open and honest dialogue, creating inclusive spaces where young people can explore their emotions through initiatives such as community pop-ups, Palette for Thought, and Teen Talk, which blend creativity, conversation, and care. Their approach centres on inclusion and recognises that mental health experiences differ for everyone, meeting young people where they are to make mental health conversations feel less intimidating and more integrated into daily life. In 2025, the HOPE Project was selected as one of 100 global grantees under the UNESCO x SEVENTEEN Going Together Grant Scheme, and was the only project representing the UAE in the Middle East. To date, they have collaborated with organisations including 21 Café, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, and Blue Umbrella in the UAE.community.

Your support helps us offer more free programming for the community.

Please arrive 15 minutes before the session starts.
No payment on-site for capped workshops – pre-registration required.