Egyptian culture celebrated at market fundraiser in Abbotsford

Egyptian culture celebrated at market fundraiser in Abbotsford

Published 3:46 pm Friday, August 14, 2026

Despite being over 10,000 km apart, those in and around Abbotsford will be able to experience Egyptian culture this month at a new upcoming fundraiser.

On Aug. 29, an Egyptian-themed market is coming to OPEX Abbotsford, with vendors offering a glimpse into the cultures from that part of the world.

While people browse the wide array of food, beverages, and handmade products, they’ll also be helping a local charity give an education to Egyptian students in need.

This event is being hosted by Salsabeel Charity, which is run by Abbotsford’s Nehal Azab and her son Eiad El Fateh, both of whom were born in Egypt before coming to Canada.

Salsabeel Charity has been helping people in Egypt for several years now, providing funds for medical treatments, food distribution, and education costs.

“The charity now provides monthly food assistance to 45 families in Siwa and Borg El Arab and supports students facing financial barriers to completing their education,” said Fateh.

“It remains entirely volunteer-run, with the founders covering the administrative expenses.”

Fateh explained that the charity’s scope of work has grown exponentially in the past year, creating a need for even more fundraising.

That’s why Salsabeel Charity created this new market, which is specifically raising money for the latest recipient of the group’s education bursary.

After helping a radiologic technologist student continue her studies at Alexandria University in 2025, Salsabeel Charity has recently given a bursary to its second-ever student.

This time around, it’s an Arabic education student at Marsa Matrouh University who is entering her final year.

Zinab Osman Yonis has already completed three years of her program, but has lost the ability to pay for her education as her father has had to use his money to support Yonis’s five younger siblings.

To continue her plans of graduating and becoming an Arabic teacher, Yonis is now in need of approximately $1,500.

To reach this goal, Salsabeel Charity has begun collecting money for Yonis and will use the proceeds from the upcoming market to cover the expenses for her final academic year.

The market takes place at OPEX Abbotsford (1575 McCallum Rd.) on Aug. 29 from 4 to 8 p.m.

“It is intended to be a relaxed, family-friendly evening where people can experience Egyptian culture, support local entrepreneurs, and learn more about Salsabeel’s charitable work,” said Fateh.

Admission to the market is free, with more information about it and Salsabeel Charity available at salsabeelcharity.org.