Nizwa Souq is a cultural hub in Oman, known for its traditional goods and vibrant marketplace atmosphere. It is not just a place of commerce but also a focal point for social interactions and community bonding.
Many businesses in Nizwa Souq have been passed down through generations, forming a rich legacy of entrepreneurship and craftsmanship. No matter the day of the week you visit, Nizwa souq is a bustling marketplace, one where even children are becoming an integral part of preserving legacies and culture.
For generations, the villagers of Nizwa have been teaching children about the intricacies of trade and entrepreneurship. Passing down business knowledge fosters a sense of camaraderie among young children, as they learn from each other and their elders. This shared learning experience strengthens social ties and promotes a sense of belonging within the community. By imparting business knowledge to young children, this legacy can continue to thrive. It allows them to understand the value of their heritage and encourages them to carry forward the family or community businesses with pride and dedication.
Bringing young children early into the family business will also equip them with the skills to adapt to modern business practices and technological advancements. Integrating traditional business knowledge with contemporary methods ensures the relevance and sustainability of Nizwa Souq in the face of evolving market trends.
Because of the challenging conditions of modern times, many more families turned to commerce to also alleviate their family's condition. These families assign the kids some fun activities for them to do so they can take part in the family venture.
Many children are actively participating in trade by selling birds, sweets, leafy vegetables, and popular cuisine, and working in restaurants and cafes. Some of them work as hosts, servers, or assistants at some food outlets.
These child entrepreneurs set up their merchandise on weekends, taking advantage of the bustling atmosphere, especially on weekends when the souq is crowded with shoppers. During the weekdays, you can find them balancing school and their trade activities, as most of them are between 10 to 18 years old.
Muntaser bin Hussam al Taiwani, a popular food seller in the souq, shared, "I have acquired the skill of dealing with customers. I also learned financial accounting skills. Today I can manage my free time and divide my time well. In the future, I am thinking of becoming a chef."
Majid bin Salim al Mahrouqi, a barista in a café, said: "Since I was young, I have been trying to prepare my commercial mind to become an entrepreneur in the future. Today, thankfully, I have gained experience in preparing different types of coffee. I gained social relationships with many people. I have financial independence, and I am thinking about saving money from now on. In the future, I will become a well-known coffee trader."
What distinguishes these children is their remarkable resemblance to experienced business leaders. They have negotiation skills, and different ideas in different fields to develop their businesses. You can observe the spirit of entrepreneurship in them.
The presence of these young traders in the Nizwa Souq not only enriches the vibrancy of the market but also showcases the new generation's readiness in the field of trade and self-reliance, contributing positively to the community and economy.
As the country embraces modernization while cherishing tradition, integrating traditional business wisdom with contemporary methods ensures the resilience and relevance of beloved marketplaces in the face of change. In passing down the torch of entrepreneurship to the next generation, people in Nizwa not only safeguard their cultural heritage but also sow the seeds for a thriving future, where the spirit of Nizwa Souq continues to flourish.
Photos by Sami al Hinai
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