Latest news with #JawaherBintMohammedAlQasimi
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Health
- Gulf Today
UK's Royal Marsden Cancer Charity hails Sheikha Jawaher's role
The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which supports the work of The Royal Marsden, has commended the significant support of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Founder/Royal Patron of the Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP). Its annual report highlighted her contributions to advancing cancer research, particularly through initiatives over the past five years that have accelerated progress at the Sharjah Clinical Genomics Laboratory within the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Centre for Molecular Pathology (CMP), housed within The Royal Marsden in the UK. These efforts have greatly enhanced faster delivery of precise diagnoses and cutting-edge personalised treatments for patients. The report underscored that Her Highness's support has empowered the lab's scientific team to fast-track diagnostics and treatments, bringing hope to thousands of patients. This was achieved through the introduction of state-of-the art facilities to the Sharjah Clinical Genomics Laboratory, including the UK's first robotic genome testing facility; and bringing together world experts in molecular pathology, bioinformatics, translational research. A humanitarian grant has been driving rapid progress The Sharjah Laboratory was launched in 2018 as a humanitarian initiative by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, who donated £500,000 to support its establishment within the CMP at The Royal Marsden in the UK. This donation reflects Her Highness's strong belief that investing in scientific research is foundational in the fight against cancer and that such research can make a genuine global impact, benefiting patients far beyond the institution itself. Founded in 1851, The Royal Marsden in London is the world's first and most renowned cancer centre. Founded in 1851, The Royal Marsden in London is the world's first and most renowned cancer centre. It specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and research of all types of cancer, with a highly experienced medical team and a dedicated department for paediatric and adolescent care. The hospital serves more than 50,000 patients annually and works in close collaboration with its academic partner, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, cementing its position as a global leader in cancer treatment innovation. Recent advancements raise cancer care Recent advancements at the CMP are enhancing cancer care and were reflected in a comprehensive report. The 'Marsden360' service, developed in partnership with Guardant Health, uses liquid biopsy (a blood test for cancer) to identify the genetic changes in DNA, allowing patients to be matched to targeted treatments. The testing was offered as part of an NHS England national study for patients with suspected late-stage lung cancer, as well as providing a commissioned NHS ctDNA service to guide treatment decisions for eligible patients with suspected late-stage breast cancer. The report also noted the Sharjah Clinical Genomics Laboratory is on track to become the first facility in the UK to offer fully automated genomic testing, with the capacity to conduct 5,000 tests monthly. This is being achieved through collaboration with Automata, a global biotech company providing robotic automation solutions to the life sciences industry. The advancement has improved early detection of genetic mutations and enabled proactive care for high-risk cancer patients. Cutting-edge technology includes the Nanopore PromethION device for precise long-read DNA sequencing, already analyzing 110 whole genomes to yield new insights for treatment development. The CMP also plays a vital role in key clinical trials like 'ENABLE-NGS', 'PREVAIL', and 'ICED' (targeting leukaemia, lung, and rare cancers), 'SIGNIFIED' (offering annual scans for Li-Fraumeni Syndrome), 'INOVATE' (blood-based monitoring for head/neck cancers), and 'RECUT Plus' (studying radiotherapy resistance). Further amplifying its impact, the lab contributed to over 24 peer-reviewed studies in 2024, presented at major conferences like ESMO and ASCO, exploring molecular profiling to redefine cancer risk and reshape treatment strategies. A UAE humanitarian vision for the world The Sharjah Clinical Genomics Laboratory reflects the UAE's vision of investing in human potential and scientific research, transforming humanitarian efforts into tangible impact in patients' lives. It serves as a prime example of successful collaboration between philanthropy and science, through which Sharjah has become an active partner and contributor to the future of genomic medicine worldwide. The laboratory's success in the UK exemplified the vision and commitment of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi commitment to supporting cancer patients. Her Highness's efforts have directly supported several specialised institutions such as Children's Cancer Hospital Egypt 57357, the Children's Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL), the National Cancer Institute in Egypt (Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi Building), and the Union for International Cancer Control's (UICC) Fund for Childhood Cancer Patients.
Gulf Today
31-07-2025
- Gulf Today
KSQF steps up international action to safeguard children
On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, marked annually on July 30, the global community is once again confronted with a deeply uncomfortable truth: children are among the most exploited, most vulnerable, and least protected populations in the world. Child exploitation and human trafficking have surged post-pandemic, with a 31% rise in detected child trafficking victims. Meanwhile, nearly 138 million children remain trapped in child labour globally, according to the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF — a slight decline from previous estimates of 160 million, but still alarmingly high. These figures not only underscore the scale of the crisis but also illustrate the cyclical nature of harm, where each crisis further entrenches children in a system of exploitation and abuse. As governments, NGOs, and advocacy groups spotlight the growing threats of exploitation, one organisation is pushing the conversation beyond awareness and toward urgent, systemic action. The Khalid Bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation (KSQF), based in Sharjah, is implementing a proactive strategy to protect children by rewiring the structures that allow abuse, trafficking, and injustice to persist. KSQF recognises that today's crises are interconnected; displacement caused by climate disasters leads to school dropouts, heightening children's exposure to trafficking, and conflict and poverty push children into labour and criminal networks. Gender inequality multiplies these risks; especially for girls subjected to sexual exploitation and boys forced into armed groups or illicit work. The Foundation recognises that no single issue can be solved in isolation, and that meaningful protection requires a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach. Committed to the protection of children as its core mandate and overarching objective, KSQF's efforts also directly align with three key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 16.2, which calls for ending abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against and torture of children; SDG 5.3, which seeks to eliminate child, early, and forced marriage practices as well as female genital mutilation; and SDG 8.7, dedicated to eradicating forced labour, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labour in all its forms. 'Protection is no longer just about rescue—it's about structural prevention,' says Lujan Mourad, Director of KSQF. 'The Foundation is implementing a comprehensive strategy encompassing three main pillars of advocacy programmes, safeguarding initiatives and capacity building. This involves prevention, specifically community awareness and development programmes; support, focusing on caring for and safeguarding children in need; and partnerships, building a global network of collaborations.' At the heart of this vision is the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of the Foundation, and one of the region's foremost advocates for children's rights and global humanitarian development. Her Highness's commitment to the dignity and safety of children transcends borders, backgrounds, and bureaucracies. She has instilled in KSQF a bold humanitarian philosophy: that child protection is not an act of charity, but a duty of justice. Her leadership has steered the Foundation towards long-term, sustainable action that addresses the root causes of vulnerability and amplifies the voices of those too often unheard. KSQF recently launched its first global initiatives aimed at protecting over 30,000 vulnerable children and their communities in Zanzibar and Mexico. In partnership with Save the Children International and Plan International, these projects tackle urgent issues like gender-based violence, child exploitation, and the hazards faced by migrant children. In Zanzibar, KSQF is expanding support services for survivors of violence, directly benefiting 1,000 individuals and reaching another 10,000 through community outreach. In Mexico, the 'Guardians of Children' project will provide essential aid and protection to 7,000 migrant children and adolescents, while indirectly supporting more than 15,000 people through awareness campaigns and community capacity building.
Gulf Today
28-02-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sheikha Jawaher launches 'For Gaza' campaign to support over 20,000 orphaned children
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), and UNHCR Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children, emphasised that uniting communities to save children affected by war is not merely a passing act of kindness or temporary aid. Rather, it is an investment in humanity's shared future — an assertion to the world that compassion triumphs over destruction and that we refuse to leave children abandoned in their suffering, anywhere in the world. Her Highness stated: "Children who endure the severe horrors and atrocities of war will carry lasting scars that may never fade. Their memories are weighed down by fear, the loss of parents, siblings, and loved ones, and the devastation of the only world they knew. This is where the world must step in — not only to provide material aid but to counter these traumatic memories with love, care, and protection, demonstrating to them that there are people who will never abandon them. These children have lost everything — their physical and emotional sanctuary has been shattered — and they need all possible support to rebuild their lives." She continued: "From this unwavering commitment comes the launch of the 'For Gaza' campaign, built on the contributions of dedicated donors and global partners. It aims to rebuild what has been broken in the hearts of these innocent children — those we see daily in the media, whose stories of resilience and dreams inspire the world. They are proof that rebuilding humanity should be our highest priority, for human dignity surpasses any material reconstruction effort." These Palestinian children bear the brunt of acute food shortages in Gaza. Her Highness's remarks came as she launched the humanitarian campaign 'For Gaza' in partnership with Palestine's Tawoon Foundation, aimed at collecting zakat and charitable donations during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The campaign seeks to provide comprehensive care and support for over 20,000 orphaned children in Gaza, in response to the dire humanitarian crisis they face after losing their parents. The initiative ensures their right to education, healthcare (including psychological support), proper nutrition, and safe shelter until they reach 18 years of age. Donation channels: Bank transfers, cheques, cash, SMS, and online contributions Through this campaign, donors can contribute any amount or select from structured sponsorship packages. A donation of $167 (approximately Dhs 625) supports one orphan for a month, while $2,000 (approximately Dhs7,500) sponsors an orphan for a year. The scars of the conflict on these innocent children will never fade. A contribution of $10,000 (approximately Dhs37,500) provides care and support for an orphan for five years, whereas $20,000 (approximately Dhs75,000) secures the care and well-being of an orphan for ten years. The campaign highlights that every contribution, regardless of size, makes a difference — helping extend support to more orphans and providing them with essential care and protection. Kiswat Eid: Bringing joy to Gaza's orphans For the first time, TBHF's annual 'Kiswat Eid' initiative will be dedicated to the same orphans supported by the campaign. The initiative seeks to bring joy to their hearts during Eid Al-Fitr, allowing donors to sponsor Eid clothing for an orphan in Gaza by donating Dhs200. TBHF will ensure these donations are distributed in partnership with Al-Faris Al-Shahim, providing the children with clothing and shoes to celebrate Eid in dignity and happiness. How to donate Donations can be made through several approved channels to ensure aid reaches the orphans directly. Contributions can be made via bank transfers to account number 0011-430430-002 at Sharjah Islamic Bank, cheque payments to The Big Heart Foundation, and cash donations at TBHF's headquarters. Like the frayed edges of the tents, the lives of the children are in tatters. SMS donations and online contributions through TBHF's designated campaign portal at are also available. Companies and organisations interested in contributing can discuss support options by contacting +971 50 535 0152. Responding to a humanitarian crisis The campaign addresses the severe humanitarian crises facing orphans in Gaza, including acute food shortages, loss of shelter, the spread of chronic diseases, psychological trauma caused by the loss of parents and the horrors of war, and the lack of education and access to medical and psychological care. 45,000 orphaned children in Gaza The importance of the 'For Gaza' campaign is underscored by the staggering number of orphans in Gaza, with approximately 45,000 orphaned children. As of August 2024, 20,000 children were registered as orphans, and 25,000 children became orphans as a direct result of the war on Gaza. Many children now fall under the category of 'Injured Child with No Surviving Family' (WCNSF). 'Be there for them' – A call to action TBHF calls upon philanthropists, humanitarian organisations, government entities, civil society groups, and private sector companies to support the 'For Gaza' campaign. This initiative provides Gaza's orphaned children with critical support, ensuring access to food, education, healthcare, and psychological care, helping them build a more secure and stable future. Strategic partnership with Palestinian civil society organisations TBHF is implementing the 'For Gaza' campaign in partnership with Tawoon Foundation, one of Palestine's leading humanitarian organisations. Tawoon has launched the Noor Gaza Orphan Care Programme in collaboration with Bank of Palestine Group, providing continuous care for orphaned children from birth until the age of 18 under the motto: "In the darkest moments of their lives, be the light for Gaza's orphans." With $7.1 million already raised, the programme has delivered critical aid to over 11,000 orphans and aims to raise $377 million to secure long-term support for Gaza's most vulnerable children. This partnership reflects TBHF's commitment to sustainable and impactful aid, ensuring that donations reach those in need through trusted organisations with a proven track record in orphan care. By working with experienced local partners, TBHF guarantees maximum impact, directing contributions towards programmes that offer a safe environment, education, and healthcare, helping children rebuild their lives and overcome the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
