Celebrating Culture and Egyptian Cinema

By: Reem Samy & Fatma Ryad 

Egyptian cinema has long been a symbol of cultural pride and a powerful means of sharing the country’s rich heritage with the world. As students and representatives of both the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) and Carolina Coronado, Director of International Engagement at UNI, we were honored to have been invited by the Consul General of Egypt in Chicago, Mrs. Nada Draz, and the Midwest to attend a special reception in Chicago. The event, which featured the cast of The Blink of Dreams, celebrated the success of this Egyptian film and the vibrant narrative it brings to international audiences.

The film’s reception in Chicago highlighted the growing worldwide appreciation for Egyptian art and cinema. Egyptian films carry profound stories of resilience, love, and the complexities of the human experience, and The Blink of Dreams is no exception. With its unique narrative and cinematic style, the film has not only captivated viewers but has also expanded global interest in Egypt’s cultural and cinematic offerings. Attending a gathering of esteemed individuals and film professionals was a significant experience for both of us, as it offered insights into the industry’s achievements and the collaborative nature of storytelling. 

For us, this reception represented more than just an event. It was an opportunity to connect with the Egyptian community abroad and to foster pride in our heritage while representing our university on an international stage. The presence of the cast and creators of The Blink of Dreams provided a glimpse into the creative process that drives Egyptian cinema forward and enabled it to reach audiences around the globe. Attending allowed us to express our admiration for their work, which not only entertains but also educates and bridges cultural gaps.

We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support we have received from the Office of International Engagement, led by Carolina Coronado-Park, that enabled us to attend the event, connect with members of the Egyptian community, and engage in fruitful multicultural conversations with the attendees. We were committed to representing UNI and the Office of International Engagement and to furthering our understanding of the intersection between culture and cinema.