From managing global brands to nurturing artistic talent, Shafeena Yusuff Ali’s RIZQ Art Initiative in Abu Dhabi blends business acumen with passion for creativity, empowering artists and fostering cultural dialogue, now featured on Duologue NXT.
In a world where commerce often overshadows creativity, Shafeena Yusuff Ali stands as a rare blend of both heart and intellect. Best known for her association with the LuLu Group, one of the Middle East’s leading retail empires, Shafeena’s journey has taken a deeply inspiring turn — from boardrooms to art studios, from business expansion to cultural evolution.
After making her mark in ventures like Tablez Food Company and real estate, Shafeena decided to follow a more personal calling — art. She pursued her education in the field, eventually channeling her passion into something larger than herself: the RIZQ Art Initiative in Abu Dhabi.
Where Art Meets Humanity
Spanning a 700-square-metre creative space, RIZQ is not just a gallery — it’s a community. Here, artists from India, Indonesia, Iraq, and beyond come together to share, collaborate, and create. The name “RIZQ” — meaning divine sustenance — reflects its core mission: to unify people through art and foster a global dialogue of compassion and creativity.
“For me, art is both a profession and a passion,” says Shafeena. “It allows me to explore human stories while creating opportunities for others to express theirs.”
A Social Enterprise with Soul
What sets RIZQ apart is its social enterprise model — a concept Shafeena honed during her time at the University of Cambridge. Every curated exhibition, every artwork sold, feeds directly into programmes that support emerging artists.
Through fellowships, residencies, and mentorships, RIZQ offers not just exposure but empowerment — providing housing, visas, airfare, and mentorship for three-month residencies. This ecosystem ensures that artists don’t merely survive but thrive — emotionally, creatively, and financially.
“It’s about giving back,” Shafeena reflects. “When an artist finds their voice, they don’t just create art — they create impact.”
A Journey of Purpose
Shafeena Yusuff Ali’s story is a powerful reminder that true success extends beyond business. Her work through RIZQ echoes a new kind of leadership — one that values empathy over enterprise and purpose over profit.
As Duologue NXT’s “Beyond Business” series captures her story, it is evident that Shafeena’s vision is not limited to galleries or markets. It is about inspiring a generation to find meaning, purpose, and humanity in everything they build.