Amman, December 22 (Petra) -- Leaders International Foundation for Economic Development partnered with the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature to launch the "Azraq Entrepreneurial Ideas Competition" under the "Nature Work" project.

In a statement issued Sunday, the Foundation said the competition aims to support innovation and empower local entrepreneurs in Azraq, connecting them to the "Shumari Wildlife Reserve" and "Al-Dahek Nature Reserve."

The initiative provides financial support and capacity-building opportunities to help develop innovative projects within the tourism sector, the statement reads.

Over two days, 20 participants out of 41 applicants presented their ideas to a jury composed of representatives from the Leaders Foundation, the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, Azraq District, the New Azraq Municipality and a technical expert. The jury selected 10 finalists to receive comprehensive support to develop and implement their projects.

The proposed projects focused on ecotourism, cultural tourism and wellness tourism, aiming to promote biodiversity, support sustainable economic growth and empower women and youth.

Ideas included activities such as yoga and meditation sessions in the tranquil Azraq desert, stargazing experiences, camel trails and initiatives celebrating Bedouin, Druze, and Chechen traditions through food, arts and cultural performances.

The competition seeks to achieve meaningful outcomes, including strengthening local communities, promoting sustainable tourism practices and enhancing local capacities by equipping participants with the tools to improve Azraq’s tourism sector and integrate it into the regional tourism network.

Leaders Foundation Project Manager of the "Nature Work" project Nadine Salameh said the organisation is committed to fostering alternative and sustainable tourism in Jordan. She highlighted the Azraq region's potential for developing eco-friendly tourism that drives economic growth while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.

Project Manager at the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature Hazem Harisha said the "Nature Work" project showcases the power of community initiatives in promoting sustainable tourism and preserving biodiversity.

Harisha praised the support for projects that empower youth and women and acknowledged the innovative ideas contributing to sustainable tourism in nature reserves.

Nature Work is funded by the Dutch Embassy's "Partnership" Fund in Jordan.

//Petra// AK

22/12/2024 16:18:08