Nujoud Al-Hawawsheh is a 31-year-old artist from Madaba City. With a degree in mosaic art production and restoration from the Mosaic Institute at Balqa College, Nujoud has spent the past four years honing her craft. Through her dedication and expertise in mosaic art, she is not only preserving a rich cultural heritage but also shaping the future of this timeless art form.
In the beautiful and historic city of Madaba, known as the world capital of mosaics, Nojoud is confidently moving towards her vision of reviving and spreading the art of mosaics among the younger generation. Madaba, home to the oldest known mosaic map since 560 AD, holds a special place in her heart. Beyond its aesthetic value, Nojoud recognises the craft's potential as a rich heritage and a source of income that can support many lives.
She joined the Youth Connect programme to develop her skills and expand her horizons. She learned how to professionally set up projects, define clear goals, plan, market, and network with relevant stakeholders. The impact of the programme went beyond these tangible skiils – it boosted her self-confidence, empowering her to make a meaningful difference in her community.
Working with her team, Nojoud set up the Golden Stone initiative, providing training on the craft of mosaic making. Focusing on young women in the local community, including those with disabilities, the training offered a route to an additional source of income. Nujoud’s passion and experience led her to expand from a small home-based workshop to renting a studio for training and producing mosaics for sale at markets and stores.
In addition, through continued networking and social media outreach, Nojoud's team has secured support from the local municipality to work on a significant mosaic project for Madaba. This initiative is now part of the city's cultural heritage.
Nojoud’s dream is to open her own workshop, train more young people in this ancient craft, and continue promoting mosaics as a tool for creativity and sustainable income for the youth of Madaba. She also contributed to the Christian Pilgrimage Path map project with the Department of Antiquities in Amman and created a mosaic replica of the historical Holy Land Map found in St. George’s Church in Madaba.
‘The Youth Connect programme gave me the chance to support girls, especially those with disabilities, facing barriers to training. It helped me learn, shift my mindset, and gain new opportunities, boosting my confidence to make a real impact in my community.’