Young volunteers: Nurturing compassion and community spirit
The workshop was presented by Ms. Suad Al Shamsi, Acting Director of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work (SAVW).
It focused on instilling the concept of volunteer work in children and introducing them to the importance of community participation from an early age.
It also highlighted the various areas of volunteer work in which they can engage, depending on their age and daily environment, whether at home, school, or the community.
Compassion for animals
The workshop also included a fun, practical aspect through the "Bird Food Bowl" activity. Children coloured and decorated the bowls, then filled them with bird food and hung them outdoors. This activity embodied an awareness message about compassion for animals and environmental conservation, emphasising that volunteer work is not limited to serving humans alone, but also encompasses other creatures and the surrounding nature.
Developing personal skills
SAVW emphasised that this workshop falls within the framework of a programme targeting children and youth, and represents a pioneering model for utilising free time during the summer vacation through purposeful activities that contribute to developing personal skills and fostering a sense of social responsibility among participants.
The award commended the significant efforts made by the Sharjah Sports Council in organising diverse and comprehensive annual summer events, in which the emirate's sports and specialised clubs participate. It commended its role in promoting a culture of volunteer work among young people and investing energies in recreational and educational activities that contribute to building an aware and effective generation in its community.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Sharjah 24
SAVW highlights youth empowerment on International Youth Day
Dedicated categories to support youth The award features specific categories aimed at youth, such as the "University Student Award for Highest Volunteer Participation" and the "Record Number of Volunteer Hours Award." These categories are designed to reward outstanding contributions and motivate young people to engage more in volunteer work. Volunteer exhibitions at university campuses To raise awareness and promote volunteer opportunities, the award also hosts ongoing volunteer exhibitions at various university campuses across Sharjah, including University of Khorfakkan and University of Al Dhaid in the Eastern and Central Regions. These exhibitions introduce students to the impact and importance of volunteering in building a cohesive, sustainable community. Fostering values of giving and responsibility Suad Al Shamsi, Director of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work, emphasised the significance of youth involvement, stating, 'Youth are the foundation of the future. Investing their energy in volunteer work fosters values of giving and social responsibility.' She added that the award aims to create a supportive environment that encourages creativity and initiative among young people in different areas of volunteerism. Supporting sustainable development and social solidarity The Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work affirms that youth empowerment through volunteering is a core pillar of its strategic vision. By offering platforms and opportunities, the award contributes to comprehensive community development and helps establish volunteerism as a way of life for young people across the UAE.
Sharjah 24
31-07-2025
- Sharjah 24
SVWA honours 41 initiatives in its 22nd edition
Universities empower students with peer support In the educational institutions category, Abu Dhabi University's Academic Success Centre received an award for its "Peer Advising Programme"—a "volunteer effort that helps first-year students adapt to university life through supervised activities conducted by more experienced peers." A total of 252 students volunteered, helping 3,582 immigrants. Bringing generations together The Abqari (Genius) Volunteer Team, which is linked with the Community Development Authority, was recognised for its effort "integrating our children with our elders." The programme's goal is to promote intergenerational communication through cooperative activities, so reducing loneliness among older adults and passing on valuable experience to younger generations. A family-led environmental endeavour On an individual level, the family of Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali received recognition for their effort "My book is my friend," which encourages book recycling in collaboration with the "Pride of the Nation" team. The family-funded programme aims to increase environmental awareness and reduce paper waste. Empowering mothers of children with autism Fatima Ismail Al Saraira received the award for her programme "Bayan for Autism," which offers scientifically based training to empower mothers of autistic children. The seminars seek to teach women how to assist their children's psychological and developmental needs, changing them into successful careers. Reflecting diversity and ingenuity The Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work stated that the winning efforts demonstrate the diversity and innovation found at all levels of voluntary participation. They exemplify the spirit of generosity and social responsibility that the award aims to instil in the UAE community. Modern volunteering drives long-term progress The award also stated that the Best Voluntary Initiative category serves as a powerful motivator for individuals and institutions involved in volunteer work, inspiring ongoing efforts to solve community challenges and advance sustainable development—regardless of whether the initiative is led by a government body, a private entity, or an individual. The award reflects the UAE's modern approach to volunteering, which emphasises direct community involvement and social welfare leadership.
Sharjah 24
25-07-2025
- Sharjah 24
Al Hamriyah: Nurturing youth and community engagement
His Excellency Mubarak Rashid Al Shamsi, Director of Al Hamriyah Municipality, affirmed that the municipality's participation in the "Our Holiday is Different" programme to manage summer activities at Al Hamriyah Cultural and Sports Club embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to support generations and enhance the role of government institutions in serving the community. Youth welfare Al Shamsi noted that the municipality places youth welfare and building a stimulating educational and recreational environment among its strategic priorities for the Year of Community. This came during Al Shamsi's inspection visit, which took place on Thursday to the summer programme activities held at Al Hamriyah Club under the supervision of the Sharjah Sports Council (SSC). Closing and honouring Al Shamsi reviewed the results of the municipality's participation in the programme and witnessed part of the closing ceremony of the fourth week, which included a review of the most prominent activities, and distinguished participants were honoured amidst an atmosphere of enthusiasm and strong parental engagement. Al Hamriyah Municipality support Al Shamsi emphasised that Al Hamriyah Municipality, as a strategic partner of Al Hamriyah Club, is actively contributing to the programme's implementation by providing logistical, technical, and organisational support, and by participating with specialised teams from various departments, including engineering, agriculture, public health, information technology, corporate communications, and innovation. This is part of an integrated summer plan that includes seven unique events, specialised workshops, and interactive lectures that contribute to honing the skills of children and adolescents and promoting the values of citizenship and belonging. The municipality's social responsibility Al Shamsi pointed out that this participation represents a practical translation of the municipality's social responsibility and its commitment to being present in the fields of positive upbringing and contributing to creating a balanced environment that combines fun and knowledge, contributing to building an aware, empowered, and creative generation. Appreciation At the end of his visit, Al Shamsi commended the efforts of Al Hamriyah Club and Sharjah Sports Council, commending the organisational level and purposeful content provided in the programme. He emphasised the commitment of Al Hamriyah Municipality, through its staff, strategic plans and programmes, to continue cooperating with various partners to achieve a sustainable community impact and enhance the quality of life in Al Hamriyah area through quality initiatives that keep pace with the aspirations of the emirate and serve its present and future.
