Dubai:WeBecomeOne, a new international cultural initiative, has been officially launched in the UAE. The initiative brings together Emirati artists and the renowned Austrian contemporary artist Tom Lohner, aiming to inspire a global movement for unity, harmony, and cultural connection through artistic collaboration and dialogue.
According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative was conceived by Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO of VFS Global, alongside Mike Reiter of Brainsworld and artist Tom Lohner. WeBecomeOne seeks to use creativity as a means to foster collaboration and understanding across societies. The launch event was hosted at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a key cultural and lifestyle hub in the city, with support from H.E. Bernd Alexander Bayerl, Ambassador of Austria to the UAE.
The initiative marks the first chapter of a global cultural movement aimed at bridging communities, governments, and countries through art and culture. Dubai was chosen as the launch location due to its status as a global hub for cultures, innovation, and international collaboration. The WeBecomeOne installation will remain on display at DIFC during the 22nd edition of DIFC Art Nights from November 12 to 15, 2026.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of "Hands of Becoming," the inaugural artwork of WeBecomeOne. Created by Tom Lohner in collaboration with Emirati artists, the installation symbolizes unity, openness, and the creative possibilities that emerge from cultural exchanges. The project embodies the spirit of the partnership between Austria and the UAE, showcasing the collaboration of individual voices in creating something meaningful.
The initiative also emphasizes providing young Emirati artists with opportunities to collaborate with internationally recognized creatives, thereby gaining exposure and participating in global cultural projects. It aims to establish a global platform for emerging artists from the UAE to connect with artistic communities worldwide.
VFS Global has played a central role in bringing together the artists, institutional partners, diplomatic stakeholders, and cultural leaders behind WeBecomeOne. The organization aims to extend its commitment beyond mobility into the realms of culture, creativity, and community-building.
Plans have been announced for "Hands of Becoming" to be showcased at Expo 2027 Belgrade, as WeBecomeOne continues to evolve into a sustained international platform. Through its growth, the initiative hopes to create lasting opportunities for cultural dialogue and cross-border collaboration.
