Youth Initiative ‘Fil Qahera’ Champions Local Tourism in Cairo

Cairo’s streets and alleyways contain tales waiting to be rediscovered and retold, stories that have patiently awaited a new generation of listeners. For the founders of Fil Qahera, a non-profit youth initiative, sharing these hidden narratives through entertaining and educational tours is a mission born from their love for Egyptian heritage.

Rokkaya Khaled, Zeina Eleish and Logaine Ismail - all university students - aim to introduce fellow youth to Egypt's cultural riches through exclusive day trips within Cairo that uncover both known historical and cultural sites, as well as destinations found off the beaten path. "Our goal is to take people to places they wouldn't otherwise see," co-founder Rokkaya Khaled tells CairoScene.Having met during their shared tenure in an extracurricular activity, the trio discovered a shared passion for exploring and uncovering Cairo’s local gems, propelling them to launch Fil Qahera. "Fil Qahera evolved organically,"  the co-founders say. "We planned a trip to Mogamma El Adyan and had so much fun. One trip led to two, then four. These casual discoveries snowballed into massive successes."

Fil Qahera's tours include the Sayedda Zeinab, Al-Azhar Mosque, Deir Al Anba Sam’aan, and centuries-old homes in Old Cairo rarely seen by tourists. Rokkaya fondly recalls how their humble beginnings quickly blossomed in popularity with attendees, many experiencing these places for the first time in their own city.

For the founders, the initiative sparks joyful memories and stories. "Each place we visit helps shape our identities," Rokkaya says. Yet many historic places risk fading into obscurity. The founders photograph each site, aiming to preserve these spaces in a personal archive.

"These places encapsulate our entire history,” the trio shares. “It's sad so many are on the brink of oblivion."  Places long forgotten are revitalized through Fil Qahera's tours - stories waiting centuries to be rediscovered by a new generation.