A Message From Our Founder On Meeting With Qatari Leaders

To The GiGi’s Playhouse Community,

Dignitaries from the Middle Eastern country of Qatar recently inquired about visiting GiGi’s Playhouse to learn about our methodologies, model, and global message of acceptance for all. Those Qatari leaders mentioned that the United Nations and the Embassy in Washington, D.C., spoke highly of GiGi’s, and consequently wanted to learn more about our model. Qatar is already one of the 82 countries we serve with our free programs, so we were very interested in meeting.

Franco, Nancy and GiGi at the airport

Omar Ghanim Mohamed, Senior Advisor of International Affairs for Her Excellency 

Greeting Her Excellency Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad

As soon as our GiGIFIT Acceptance Challenge was over, Franco, GiGi, and I traveled to GiGi’s Playhouse in New York City to meet Her Excellency Mariam Al-Misnad, the Minister of Social Development and the Family for Qatar. That location in Harlem is so full of heart and determination! As an urban location, they have small square footage but huge aspirations! They take multi-use spaces to a whole new level! I presented the GiGi’s model and how our mission is just as much a part of our organization as the growth. Following that, Her Excellency spent time painting with participants and hearing their stories of GiGi’s.

When Her Excellency entered the Playhouse, I was immediately taken aback by her humble and kind demeanor. I do not know what I was expecting but seeing her instant connection to individuals with Down syndrome was proof enough for me that she was the real deal! Our individuals are a great judge of character! The other dignitaries were also warm and welcoming which put me further at ease.

Her Excellency Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, GiGi, Me and GiGi’s Playhouse Board President Bret Bowerman

I am not too familiar with Middle Eastern culture but believe me, I did some quick Google searches! I certainly did not want to offend anyone, and I wanted to show them some western hospitality! GiGi and I made them homemade chocolate chip cookies and biscotti, and our GiGi University graduates at Hugs and Mugs created beautiful custom mugs. The International Dignitaries also came with gifts, and it felt like family as we sat with our participants and talked about each other’s countries. Our students painted the Qatar flag and we discussed teaching acceptance in our countries.

Some of the most unexpected relationships in my life have come through GiGi’s. I have met people from all walks of life, and I have learned to always start with GenerationG. No judgment; be accepting, be generous, be kind. Well, until they show me otherwise!

What we have learned through GiGi’s model is that our free programs are just one small part of our organization. How we facilitate them and spread our message of acceptance is the part that is changing the world! Ironically, the part of our model countless consultants said would never be sustainable – offering free educational and therapeutic programs, is creating that ripple effect through the voices and actions of our donors, families, volunteers, and fundraisers.

Giving tour of GiGi’s Playhouse in New York

To think our model can help inspire other countries to open their hearts to acceptance is truly a gift. We hope we can continue to inspire Qatar, its people, and other countries on our path to acceptance for all. Together we really can change the world!!!

With Love & Gratitude,

Nancy Gianni

Franco, Danielle Cumberbatch, Me, Merton Cumberbatch and GiGi