Jeddah: The Jeddah Ciji Women Collective (JCWC), widely recognized for its contributions to women’s empowerment in the city, recently organized a Thrift Event that highlighted environmentally responsible living and a more mindful approach to consumption. The initiative reflected a growing movement in Jeddah toward sustainable practices led by women’s community groups.
Held at the premises of Al Wurood International School in Jeddah, the program centered on encouraging a plastic-free environment and promoting a balanced, value-driven consumer culture that supports sustainable lifestyles. The event was led by the Business Initiative Group of JCWC, guided by a strong sense of social responsibility and a commitment to preserving a sustainable ecosystem for future generations.
Designed as a purposeful community platform, the initiative aimed to transform unused and discarded items into opportunities for reuse. By fostering a culture of exchange and mindful consumption, organizers sought to reduce waste while nurturing a meaningful marketplace rooted in sustainability and conscious living.
The Thrift Event also offered educational value for children and families, demonstrating how reuse and exchange can contribute to social awareness and shared responsibility. Nearly a dozen stalls were set up by various groups across Jeddah, including women entrepreneurs, children’s craft initiatives, and reusable-item vendors. Visitors enthusiastically participated in exchanging goods, highlighting the growing interest and potential of thrift and reuse initiatives in the community.
The program attracted an impressive turnout of more than 500 visitors from across Jeddah. Adding energy and creativity to the day, JCWC Treasurer Majitha Kunji and Nabeela Abubacker conducted an interactive workshop presenting innovative and eco-friendly methods for repurposing everyday household items. In addition, a vibrant fabric-painting session led by Sajna Asif inspired participants to adopt environmentally conscious and creative habits.
The event was inaugurated by renowned Saudi journalist, novelist, media personality, and businesswoman Dr. Sameera Aziz, whose longstanding commitment to empowering women and children brought special significance to the occasion. As she visited each stall, she offered words of encouragement to participating women entrepreneurs and observed that the collective’s efforts align closely with the aspirations and transformative goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The inauguration was attended by several distinguished guests, including International Indian School Headmistress Sadiqa Tharann; Al Wurood International School Principals Sunil Kumar (Boys Section) and Bhuvaneshwari Subramaniam (Girls Section); Educational Coordinator Smita Sunil Kumar; and Chairman Mohammed Kunji. Their presence and support added further dignity to the event.
In keeping with the event’s commitment to responsible waste management and social care, all unsold items were donated to charitable causes after the program. This gesture reinforced the event’s broader message of sustainability, compassion, and community goodwill.
The success of the Thrift Event was made possible through the leadership and teamwork of JCWC Chairperson Rafseena Ashfaq, Program Convener Dr. Nikhitha Mohammed, Business Initiative Group Head Shaimin Najeeb, and Coordinators Nufi Latheef and Basima Shafeeq. The venue was enhanced by creative stage design from Ibsitha, Surumi, Hanan, Sabrina, Sherin, and Sajna, while Dr. Rasha Nassih ensured the smooth flow of the program through confident and engaging anchoring.
Behind the scenes, dedicated support teams played a crucial role. Volunteer coordination was managed by Aneesa Baiju and Ruby Sameer, charity coordination by Ayesha Ransi, technical arrangements by Muna Qasim, and media support by Jooby—together reflecting the strength of collective effort and women-led leadership.
Participants commended the organizers for their dedication in preparing the event over one and a half months, noting that the initiative successfully combined environmental awareness with economic empowerment. Beyond promoting sustainable practices, the Thrift Event provided a valuable platform for women to strengthen their financial independence and pursue entrepreneurial goals with greater confidence.
Emerging as a meaningful celebration of community, sustainability, and empowerment, the JCWC Thrift Event underscored the role of women-led initiatives in shaping a more conscious consumer culture in Jeddah—one that supports environmental stewardship, encourages community participation, and contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable future.
