Latest news with #TheBigHeartFoundation
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- General
- Sharjah 24
Dignity: The right that must never be forgotten
This becomes clear when we compare stable societies with refugee communities. In the former, necessities are often taken for granted. Over time, needs evolve—towards freedom of expression, creativity, personal growth, and fulfillment. In refugee communities, however, needs multiply in proportion to loss. Refugees long for a home, memories, school, protection, and the dream of a future, a need that only genuine human solidarity can fulfill, restoring a sense of reassurance to the spirit. This reality reminds us of a core principle in humanitarian work: the distinction between meeting basic needs and rebuilding the human spirit. Dignity, respect, and self-determination can take precedence over food or shelter. The need is not just to survive, but to feel alive. Without dignity, even food and medicine lose meaning. Aid must preserve self-respect and empower people as active participants in rebuilding their solidarity is not measured solely by what we provide, but by what we help keep alive within the individual. What keeps someone truly alive is not just bread and water, but passion, decision-making, expression, and the ability to dream. That's why at The Big Heart Foundation, we affirm that refugees are not a 'special case.' Our mission goes beyond physical needs—we must support to keep their spirit alive and their future is theirs to shape. We must move past viewing refugees solely as victims. Their needs extend beyond survival to all that gives life meaning. When dignity is restored, aid becomes partnership. Shelter becomes a home. The refugee becomes the architect of their future. Guided by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and supported by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi,Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, we put dignity at the heart of our work. We ask ourselves: Have we listened? Have we preserved dignity? Have we made space for individuals to lead? On World Refugee Day, our message is clear: let us redefine solidarity. Let us make dignity a measure of success. Because without dignity, a person cannot rise—and if we strip it from others, we lose our own humanity.
Sharjah 24
2 days ago
- General
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Crown Prince honours 22nd SAVW winners
Recognition of distinguished personalities The ceremony, hosted at the Sharjah Education Academy, recognised His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Humanitarian Envoy of The Big Heart Foundation, in the Veteran Personalities category for his exceptional contributions to humanitarian and volunteer work. Also recognised were Sheikh Essam bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Advisor at the Ruler's Office, for his distinguished volunteer and charitable efforts in community service, and Khamis bin Salem Al Suwaidi, Advisor at the Ruler's Office, for his notable community service contributions. Overview of the Award His Highness the Crown Prince was presented with a comprehensive overview of the award's 14 categories, which included details on the number of winners, honourees, veteran figures, and the sustainable endowment initiatives backed by the award. Ceremony highlights The event commenced with the UAE national anthem, followed by a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. Attendees, including His Highness, then viewed a theatrical performance and a video presentation that emphasised the value of family volunteering and its positive impact on both individuals and society, reinforcing principles of social cohesion and solidarity. Showcasing Award milestones A second video showcased key award milestones, featuring notable figures, statistics on participants and winners across various categories, total recorded volunteer hours, and the accomplishments of the honourees. Chairman's address: Reinforcing volunteerism In his address, Ahmed Ibrahim Al Mail, Chairman of the Social Services Department and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work, reaffirmed Sharjah's commitment—under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah—to promoting volunteerism and a culture of community giving. He highlighted that over the award's 22-year history, hundreds of individuals and institutions have been recognised for exemplary humanitarian and volunteer initiatives, helping to strengthen social unity and solidarity. Celebrating impact and innovation Al Mail praised the esteemed status the award has attained, noting its role as a prominent platform for celebrating innovation in charitable work, cultivating a sense of social responsibility among youth, and inspiring both public and private sector institutions to implement meaningful volunteer initiatives. Inclusivity and moral commitment He further stressed that the award encourages participation from all community segments, including persons with disabilities and the elderly. Volunteerism, he noted, transcends age and circumstance, driven by a deep-seated belief in serving others. Quoting the words of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, he said: 'Volunteer work is a noble human value and a vital contributor to achieving comprehensive societal development. It fosters moral values through active participation and boundless generosity.' A call to continue the journey Concluding his remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees congratulated the award winners, extended his appreciation to the judging panel, the board members, and all those who contributed to elevating the award's status. He urged everyone to continue on the path of volunteering, describing it as both a humanitarian obligation and a driving force for social cohesion and sustainable growth. Jury Chairman's address For his part, Dr Abdul Aziz bin Butti Al Muhairi, Chairman of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work Jury, delivered a speech in which he emphasised the significant role volunteers play in strengthening community cohesion and solidarity. He noted that the 22nd edition witnessed widespread participation, revealing that the award received 292 applications, of which 142 were qualified. These applications were carefully reviewed, and the winners were selected with precision and transparency according to clear and objective criteria. This reflects the award's prestigious position in promoting the culture of volunteering and its lofty values in the UAE. Acknowledging support and encouragement The Chairman of the Jury expressed his sincere appreciation to the Board of Trustees for its ongoing support, which has played a vital role in the award's growth and success. He highlighted that this support reflects the Board's strong commitment to the award's mission and noble objectives. He encouraged all participants to continue their volunteer efforts and actively contribute to community service, wishing them continued success and distinction in this meaningful endeavour. Best Volunteer Opportunity Creator Award His Highness honoured the award's 14 different categories. In the Best Volunteer Opportunity Creator Award, Dubai Municipality won in the Government Institutions category for the "One Hour with a Cleaning Engineer" opportunity, while the Emirates Cancer Society won in the Non-Governmental Institutions category for the "Health Awareness Ambassadors Programme." Distinguished Supporter of Volunteer Work Award In the Distinguished Supporter of Volunteer Work Award, the Dubai Police General Command took first place, and the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi took second place in the Government Institutions category. Mohammed Issa Al Hammadi won first place in the Individuals category. Best Volunteer Initiative Award The Dubai Police General Command received the Best Volunteer Initiative Award in the Government Institutions category for its 'Establishing Protection Schools' initiative. In the Families category, the family of Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed Al Ali was honoured for their 'My Book is My Friend' initiative, while Fatima Ismail Al Sarayrah won in the Individuals category for her 'Statement for Autism' initiative. Volunteer teams and private sector recognition The Abaqira Volunteer Team earned first place in the Volunteer Teams category for their initiative, "Integrating Our Children with Our Elders," while the Najah Academic Centre at Abu Dhabi University secured the top spot in the Private Sector category for their 'Peer Mentoring Program.' Volunteer hours record Winners Ismail Halkouj set the record in the Individual category with 3,978 volunteer hours. In the Family category, Hanan Saeed Saeed Salem's family claimed first place with 306 hours. The Ataa Hamdan Volunteer Team topped the Volunteer Team category, contributing an impressive 45,477 volunteer hours. University Student and Knight of Volunteer Work Awards The University Student Award for highest volunteer participation was awarded to Batoul Saadi Ibrahim Al-Najjar, who completed 1,943 volunteer hours. The Knight of Volunteer Work Award went to Tabarak Saadi Al-Najjar for achieving 1,606 volunteer hours. Asalah Award for Elderly Participation The Asalah Award for Best Volunteer Participation by the Elderly was awarded to Halima Ahmed Saif Al Naqbi, who earned first place with 86 volunteer hours. Latifa Mahmoud Mohammed secured second place with 26 hours, while Mira Hamad Saif Al Ketbi came in third with 25 hours. Himma Award for Volunteer Participation The Himma Award for Best Volunteer Participation was awarded to Salem Mohammed Karim, who claimed first place with 1,296 volunteer hours. Ayman Azhari Ali earned second place with 575.2 hours, while Salma Khamis Hamdan Al Salami secured third place with 301 hours. Civil society and volunteer leadership awards In the Best Civil Society Award category, the International Charity Organisation from Ajman secured first place, while the Hamdan Volunteer Team was recognised as the Best Volunteer Team. Sultan Salem Al Kaabi received the Best Young Leader of a Volunteer Team Award, and Dr Ahmed Mohammed Al Kamali was honoured with the Role Model Volunteer Award. Arada Real Estate Development Company earned the Excellence in Social Responsibility Award, and the Al Khalidiya Suburb Council was named Best Suburb in Volunteer Work. Special volunteer category honourees His Highness also honoured the recipients in the Special Volunteer Category, recognising outstanding blood donors including: Adel Abdulrahman Al Ali, Ibrahim Mohammed Al Zarouni, Roger Nicola Sahioni, Abdullah Mohammed Al Mulla, Ibaa Nazir Shabouk, Mubarak Amoud Ghadban, Eid Rashid Al Mutlaq, Jassim Mohammed Al Shehhi, Raed Fadhel Ramadan, Mustafa Abdulrahman Dakhel, and Mohammed Kamal Nazir Al Lauwza. Supporting Sharjah's volunteer vision This annual award is part of the Emirate of Sharjah's ongoing efforts to promote and support volunteerism, celebrate exemplary contributions in the field, and foster sustainable development while strengthening social solidarity within the community. Distinguished guests in attendance The honouring ceremony was attended by Sheikh Essam bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Advisor at the Ruler's Office; Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office; Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai; along with several senior officials and award recipients.
Gulf Today
26-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf Today
Jawaher donates Dhs7m to fund 3 humane projects in Zanzibar, benefit over 82,000
Under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), the Foundation has announced the implementation of three critical humanitarian and developmental projects in Zanzibar with a total funding of Dhs7 million. These projects reflect TBHF's strategic expansion across the African continent and aim to address pressing challenges in education, health services, and socio-economic empowerment. The announcement follows Her Highness's official visit to Zanzibar in the United Republic of Tanzania last year, during which she assessed the developmental needs of local communities. Sheikha Jawaher interacts with a child. TBHF will implement the projects in collaboration with Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation and Save the Children, aiming to impact more than 82,440 direct and indirect beneficiaries through a comprehensive plan to foster long-term social and economic development. A vision of sustainable humanitarianism Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi's leadership continues to shape TBHF's humanitarian approach and its initiatives in Zanzibar. During her September 2024 visit, Her Highness met with Maryam Mwinyi, First Lady of Zanzibar and President of Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation, who later visited Sharjah in February 2025 to engage with key institutions led by Her Highness and to explore Sharjah's pioneering model of inclusive social development. The two leaders discussed opportunities for collaboration to empower women and youth, recognising Sharjah's global reputation as a developmental model rooted in human capital, skills development, and community-based institutions. The newly announced projects directly support this vision by contributing to Zanzibar's national development agenda and the long-term sustainability of its social infrastructure. Alya Obaid Al Musaeibi, Director of TBHF, stated: 'At The Big Heart Foundation, we believe that humanitarian action should extend beyond emergency aid to create sustainable impact. These projects – in education, sanitation, and economic empowerment – reflect our commitment to long-term solutions, particularly those that uplift women and youth. By working with trusted local partners, we are ensuring that our support translates into meaningful, measurable change for individuals and communities.' Economic empowerment of women and youth through seaweed farming Over a one-year implementation period, TBHF will partner with the Zanzibar 'Maisha Bora Foundation', chaired by the First Lady of Zanzibar, to launch a social and economic empowerment programme benefiting 200 women and youth involved in seaweed farming. Sheikha Jawaher listens to a briefing during her visit. The initiative includes training in sustainable farming techniques, marketing strategies, and contract farming models to enhance productivity and secure income stability. It also aims to raise product quality standards and integrate small-scale producers into local and international markets. By boosting the value-added seaweed industry and linking it to the broader blue economy, the programme enhances the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises and contributes to Zanzibar's sustainable economic development. Clean and inclusive school environments for Zanzibar students To strengthen school infrastructure, TBHF has previously announced its collaboration with Save the Children to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities across four districts: Unguja, Kaskazini A & Kati, Pemba, Micheweni, and Mkoani. Over 18 months, this initiative will directly benefit 21,173 students and indirectly impact over 42,346 community members. The project includes the construction of 20 sanitation blocks (comprising 128 toilets) across 12 of 28 primary schools, designed to be age-appropriate, gender-segregated, and accessible for students with disabilities. It also provides hygiene kits and delivers health education sessions focused on menstrual hygiene management for girls, helping to reduce absenteeism and support uninterrupted education. Upgrading schools into modern learning hubs In a parallel 18-month programme with Save the Children, TBHF will rehabilitate Ghana Primary School and Shwaka Primary School to transform them into model institutions that provide equitable access to high-quality education. The project will benefit 1,114 students at Ghana School and 957 at Shwaka, with additional outreach to 16,848 students from neighbouring schools. The schools will be upgraded with modern classrooms, libraries, science and ICT labs, and sports facilities. The initiative will also promote digital learning and skill-building to prepare students for future challenges. TBHF's ongoing commitment to Africa Over the past decade, TBHF has launched 179 humanitarian projects across Africa, benefiting more than 1.4 million people in Tanzania, Somaliland, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Sudan, Mozambique, and Swaziland. Previous projects in Zanzibar include the Big Heart Mobile Medical Clinic, launched in 2024 to serve 20,000 patients annually, and a sanitation improvement initiative across 12 schools. The new initiatives deepen TBHF's role as a key catalyst of sustainable development in Africa, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). With these expanded efforts, TBHF continues to drive forward a people-centred model of change — one that empowers communities and builds a future of opportunity for generations to come.
Sharjah 24
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Reem BinKaram: ‘Precious Heart' inspired by Emirati 'Talli'
Craft and Heritage BinKaram stated that all the pieces unveiled today are crafted from high-purity royal jade and inspired by Emirati heritage, inspired by the Emirati craft of Talli. The collection features rings, necklaces, earrings, and pendants, embellished with gold, diamonds, and natural pearls. Supporting Global Projects In her statement to "Sharjah24", BinKaram added that the proceeds from the collection will go toward supporting The Big Heart Foundation's projects around the world. The market value of the collection exceeds £9.7 million. Message of Impact The 'Precious Heart' collection reflects the message of Sharjah and the UAE, blending modernity with tradition, beauty with creativity, and a human-driven will to bring meaningful change to the lives of millions worldwide.
Gulf Today
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Sultan opens new buildings of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services
His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, praised the efforts of those managing the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) and its distinguished and specialised level of service as it approaches its 50th year. He commended Sheikha Jameela Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, for her great effort in founding the city after studying and specialising in this field in the United States. This came during the inauguration of the new buildings of SCHS by Sheikh Sultan on Monday in the Barashi area. The new buildings mark the first phase of the city, covering an area of 100,000 square metres, and embody the concept of a cohesive community within an integrated complex that offers an inclusive educational and rehabilitative environment based on the best international practices. Sheikh Sultan praised the structures, facilities, and the beautiful layout of the buildings, which meet the needs and requirements of the city's beneficiaries. He appreciated the rapid progress in treating cases that even leading medical institutions find challenging to handle. He stressed the importance of the city's expansion and doubling its space along Emirates Road, emphasising that the expansion should not only include treatment institutions but also employee housing to facilitate proximity to the city. Sheikh Sultan directed the allocation of the back area and the northern section adjacent to the city to become part of SCHS property, to be developed into buildings providing direct services for treating various cases of disability. His vision is to elevate the city to a global standard in serving and treating people with disabilities. The Ruler of Sharjah noted the continuous increase in enrollment applications, which he confirmed reflects the high quality of services and the excellent reputation achieved through the dedicated work of Sheikha Jameela and her team, along with generous contributions from institutions and individuals. He added that the government covers the city's operational expenses. Sheikh Sultan expressed gratitude to government entities for their strong cooperation with the city and stressed the need for ongoing collaboration to complete the aesthetic vision of the new buildings by planting trees, improving the surrounding roads, and removing electrical barriers to create an ideal environment for students and visitors. Sheikh Sultan praised the donation of Dhs44.4 million by The Big Heart Foundation to construct the treatment centre at SCHS, which will cover 8,188 square metres with a capacity to serve 2,800 beneficiaries as part of the city's second phase of development. Sheikh Sultan concluded his speech by wishing all those involved with SCHS success in providing outstanding treatment services for people with disabilities and urged them to continue excelling and working hard to ensure the city becomes a leading global centre for supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities. Sheikh Sultan unveiled the commemorative plaque marking the official opening of the new buildings, which include the Sharjah Autism Centre, Al Wafa School for Capacity Development, and the administrative building. Sheikh Sultan toured the Sharjah Autism Centre, which offers specialised services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. WAM The facilities will serve 3,000 individuals, including 1,287 daily service recipients and 1,159 treatment centre beneficiaries. The new buildings rely on innovative initiatives grounded in scientific research, adhere to the latest global practices, are environmentally friendly, technologically advanced, and meet universal design standards to offer an inclusive and accessible environment. Sheikh Sultan toured the Sharjah Autism Centre, which offers specialised services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) based on the latest practices, with a capacity of 120 students across 4,934 square metres. Sheikh Sultan observed the skills and efforts of the teaching staff, interacted with the students, and witnessed practical applications of lessons in specialised classrooms such as arts, music, life skills, the gym, and the library. Sheikh Sultan then visited Al Wafa School for Capacity Development, which accommodates 352 students with intellectual disabilities, offering specialised programmes and services following global best practices. He toured the school, visiting classrooms, physical therapy and occupational therapy rooms, and severe disabilities units, noting the attractive and inclusive learning environment. Sheikh Sultan also visited the city's new administrative building, which houses administrative offices, meeting rooms, and multipurpose halls. He posed for a commemorative photo with the city's staff. The new buildings were designed to meet the deep and noble needs of humanitarian services, while also strategically preparing for future development with a foundation in scientific research and best engineering and operational practices in education, rehabilitation, and support services. Sheikh Sultan received a detailed explanation of the city's future expansion plans, including the second phase, which features: Early Intervention Centre: Specialised services for children from birth to 5 years old. Al Amal School and Kindergarten for the Deaf: Educational services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Sheikh Sultan visits Al Wafa School for Capacity Development, which accommodates 352 students with intellectual disabilities. WAM Masarat Centre for Development and Empowerment: Vocational and independent living training for young people with disabilities. The second phase also includes Independent Living Units, a unique regional project offering services for adults with disabilities who seek independent living, contributing to building an inclusive and sustainable community and supporting thousands of families and individuals. Sheikha Jameela extended her deepest thanks and appreciation to Sheikh Sultan for his unwavering support of the rights of persons with disabilities across scientific, academic, intellectual, economic, and social fields. Sheikha Jameela stated, "The city's new buildings are not only an achievement for SCHS but also a milestone for the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the grace of God and the continuous support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, whose concern for individuals with disabilities has driven progress and leadership in providing cutting-edge services and raising community awareness.' Sheikha Jameela emphasised that SCHS places great importance on strategic and phased planning to achieve the best outcomes, with education being a top priority, staying aligned with the latest global best practices. Since its founding in 1979, SCHS has been committed to offering integrated services by expanding facilities and opening new branches, now comprising 13 specialised centres and three branches in Khorfakkan, Al Dhaid, and Kalba. The city continues to deliver modern and advanced services with a comprehensive infrastructure that ensures smooth operations and high-quality services. Thanks to the patronage and support of Sheikh Sultan, SCHS has established a pioneering reputation locally, regionally, and internationally, achieving its vision of being a leading institution in advocating for and empowering individuals with disabilities in the UAE, the Arab world, and globally. Accompanying Sheikh Sultan on the tour were Sheikha Jameela, Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Charity International, several senior officials, heads of government departments and authorities, and SCHS staff members. WAM
