Art be a Part, SNF artists, eL Seed make school bus an inclusive canvas
- Last updated: October 15, 2025 | 10:37
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Art be a Part, the platform dedicated to empowering causes and fostering active leadership in art and charitable initiatives, in collaboration with renowned French-Tunisian artist eL Seed and the Special Needs Future Development Center (SNF) and supported by Taj Dubai, has unveiled a visionary project that combines creativity, empowerment, and inclusion.
Through funds raised by Art be a Part, a new school bus was donated to SNF to support the daily transportation needs of children of determination. But the project goes beyond practical function; the vehicle has been turned into a symbol of hope, unity, and artistic expression, thanks to the vision of eL Seed, whose work has inspired communities worldwide with messages of peace and cultural connection.
He recently joined SNF students for an extraordinary day of creativity, painting the bus together and transforming it into a moving artwork that narrates a story of inclusion, empowerment, and the boundless possibilities of artistic collaboration. The school bus will now serve not just as a means of transport but as a travelling canvas, spreading joy and inspiration wherever it goes.
The project began in mid-August, when the new bus was delivered to SNF and customised internally to ensure full accessibility for students. The October painting session marked the heart of the initiative: a vibrant, one-of-a-kind experience that brought together eL Seed’s signature artistry and the students’ own creative imagination and voices.
“This project is everything Art be a Part stands for - art that transforms lives,” said Medha Nanda, Founder, Art be a Part. “Seeing the children collaborate with eL Seed, expressing themselves freely, and knowing the bus will carry not just students but also their stories and spirit - that is the power of art in action.”
“On behalf of our team and students, we sincerely thank you for sponsoring the vehicle for our special needs students,” said Safia Bari, SNF Director. “Your support provides them with independence, accessibility and safer journeys, while enabling participation in community activities. We are inspired by your commitment to inclusion and look forward to sharing the positive impact of your generosity.”
“Art is a driver for social change. Painting gave the children from SNF a sense of ownership and belonging. It was visible in every brushstroke. This is more than a vehicle, it is a symbol of unity and endless possibility,” said eL Seed. The bus will now be used daily to transport students from their homes to the SNF centre, carrying with it a vibrant message of empowerment and creativity. The initiative is seen as another milestone in Art be a Part’s mission to leverage art as a force for healing, communication, and social impact.
“Supporting ‘Moving Canvas’ has been an honour for us, as it reflects values we hold close: creativity, inclusion, and shared joy. Seeing art transform into a symbol of unity and possibility alongside the children of SNF, is deeply inspiring, and we are proud to have played a role in this extraordinary initiative,” said Saurabh Tiwari, Area Director, Middle East & CIS, Taj Hotels.
Art be a Part was founded on the belief that art and philanthropy are catalysts for societal change, empowering communities through a culture of mindful giving. AbaP creates value-driven art and charitable initiatives, including galas, exhibitions and auctions, that support emerging talent, inspire art, and promote artists whose works make a significant impact on society and culture.
Founded in Dubai in 2003 by families of people of determination, SNF provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment for young adults aged 14 and above. It empowers its students to gain confidence, independence and meaningful opportunities in society through personalised education programmes (IEPs), vocational training, therapy services and life skills development. With small class sizes (3:1 student-to-staff ratio) and an ASDAN-certified curriculum, students benefit from tailored instruction, functional academics, creative activities, and real-world work experience. Located in Al Mankhool, Dubai, SNF builds pathways for inclusion, growth, and empowerment for individuals of determination and their families.
eL Seed is a French-Tunisian contemporary artist, best known for his unique style of Arabic calligraffiti, that blends traditional script with modern street art to spread messages of peace, unity, and cultural dialogue. His large-scale works have transformed public spaces worldwide, from Cairo and Paris to Dubai and the Korean DMZ, turning walls into symbols of connection and shared humanity. A recipient of the UNESCO-Sharjah Prize for Arab Culture and named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, eL Seed engages with local communities to create art that resonates beyond aesthetics, fostering inclusion and social impact. He is based in Dubai.
Established in 1903, Taj is The Indian Hotels Company Limited’s (IHCL) iconic brand. Taj Dubai is a blend of luxury, authentic Indian heritage and contemporary style, and the hotel’s 296 rooms embody rich Indian artistry with a vibrant twist, offering awe-inspiring views of the Burj Khalifa and the dynamic city skyline. Its deluxe rooms and signature suites like the Maharaja and Presidential, are adorned with handcrafted furniture and hand-painted artworks that reflect the essence of the timeless charm of Agra’s Taj.
The hotel portfolio comprises hotels across the globe including presence in India, North America, United Kingdom, Africa, Middle East, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan and Nepal. Meanwhile, spot the bus in Dubai, tag @artbeapart, @elseed and #TAG25, and tell your story on ‘Beyond the Frame: Art and the Future of Inclusion’ - let your creativity take the wheel!