Latest news with #TBHF
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Health
- Sharjah 24
ERT Centre reopens in Beirut with $2.3M support from TBHF
Funded by a USD 2.36 million (AED 8.7 million) contribution from TBHF's 'Salam Beirut' campaign, the project has reconstructed facilities in Lebanon's oldest and most revered medical institution, severely damaged in the catastrophic 2020 Beirut Port explosion. The inauguration signifies an important step in restoring critical healthcare access for thousands, and underscores the power of international solidarity in crisis response. The reconstructed unit now boasts state-of-the-art medical equipment, expanded capacity, enhanced trauma care facilities, and a new paediatric section; enabling SGHUMC to operate at full capacity for the first time since the blast. Expected to serve over 40,000 patients annually, the facility is a significant step forward in strengthening Beirut's healthcare capabilities. Sharjah supports Beirut's recovery efforts after the 2020 port blast The Port of Beirut explosion claimed over 150 lives, injured thousands, and displaced nearly 300,000 residents; and among the hardest-hit institutions was SGHUMC, a 147-year-old pillar of Lebanon's healthcare system, which sustained extensive structural and operational damage. Sharjah's response, following the compassionate and visionary leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of TBHF, and UNHCR's first Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children, TBHF launched the 'Salam Beirut' campaign, raising over 30 million AED to aid recovery efforts. The reconstruction of SGHUMC's Emergency and Trauma (ERT) Centre has been one of the major accomplishments of the campaign. The inauguration ceremony was attended by His Eminence Metropolitan Elias Audi, Archbishop of Beirut and its Dependencies; Her Excellency Mariam Al Hammadi, Member of the Advisory Board of TBHF; Her Excellency Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF; Dr. Marwan Najjar, SGHUMC Chief Executive Officer; and Dr. Salah Chouairi, SGHUMC Chief Medical Officer; His Excellency Fahad Salem Al Kaabi, Chargé d'Affaires at the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Lebanon; alongside other important figureheads from both TBHF and SGHUMC as well as healthcare leaders, diplomats, and regional partners. Her Excellency Alya Al Musaiebi, TBHF Director: Humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in dignity At the inauguration ceremony, Her Excellency Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, reaffirmed Sharjah's long-term friendship with Lebanon, praising the strength of its people. 'This initiative carries a message of love and solidarity from Sharjah, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, and our Chairperson, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher, to the people of Lebanon who have always faced adversity with resilience and pride', she noted. TBHF Director continued: 'The reconstructed and expanded ERT Centre at SGHUMC symbolizes our belief that humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in the dignity of those we serve. The devastation caused by the Port of Beirut explosion was not just structural—it was deeply human, and our response through 'Salam Beirut' was committed to investing in systems that give people back not just services, but stability and self-worth. Today, we are not simply inaugurating a project; we are standing beside a community and investing in its future.' Dr. Joseph Wehbe, Chief of Staff and Head of the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Saint George University Hospital : This project goes beyond rebuilding—it restores hope to Beirut. Dr. Joseph Wehbe, Chief of Staff and Head of the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Saint George University Hospital, said: 'The rehabilitation, restoration, and expansion of the Emergency and Trauma Unit marks a moment of great pride for everyone at Saint George University Hospital. The hospital was among the most severely affected institutions by the tragic explosion that rocked the Port of Beirut, resulting in a complete shutdown for the first time since its founding in 1878. Despite the magnitude of the disaster, our determination never wavered. Through the dedication and perseverance of our medical and administrative teams, we managed to resume operations via a temporary emergency unit within a record time of just two weeks.' He added: 'Today, thanks to the generous support of The Big Heart Foundation, and under the guidance of its Chairperson, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, we inaugurate a fully developed and advanced emergency unit equipped to the highest medical and technical standards—ready to resume its vital role in serving over 40,000 patients annually. This project is not merely about rebuilding a medical facility; it represents a noble humanitarian message and restores hope to the people of Beirut.' After the speeches and ribbon-cutting, guests received a guided tour of the ERT Centre and viewed a documentary illustrating the journey from devastation to renewal. A commemorative plaque honouring TBHF was unveiled, symbolizing SGHUMC's appreciation for their crucial support. The event ended with a reception attended by healthcare leaders, diplomats, and regional partners, united in their commitment to rebuilding Lebanon with dignity and hope. Originally announced in December 2020 as part of TBHF's 'Salam Beirut' campaign, the reconstruction of the Emergency and Trauma Unit was set to be completed within a few months. However, the aftermath of the Beirut Port explosion coincided with the global COVID-19 crisis, leading to necessary delays as parts of the hospital were repurposed to treat urgent cases during the pandemic. Throughout this period, SGHUMC remained steadfast in its service to the community by establishing a temporary emergency facility that continued to provide life-saving care.
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- 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.
Al Etihad
17-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Jawaher Al Qasimi witnesses launch of ‘Precious Heart' jewellery collection to fund global humanitarian projects
17 May 2025 19:17 SHARJAH (WAM)H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council (Irthi) and The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), witnessed the launch of the exclusive luxury jewellery collection 'Precious Heart', which is a collaborative effort between Irthi, TBHF, and the British luxury jewellery house Asprey. All proceeds from the collection will go entirely towards supporting TBHF's humanitarian projects and initiatives for refugees, displaced individuals, and vulnerable communities by the Emirati craft of Talli, the collection features 20 pieces of jewellery made from high-purity imperial jadeite, with an estimated total value of £9.7 million. Imperial jadeite, the central element of the collection, is a rare and highly valuable type of jade known for its rich emerald-green hue. The collection also includes diamonds, amethysts, and natural pearls and consists of rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, and beaded jadeite necklaces, all set in 18-karat gold and adorned with precious her opening speech, H.H. Sheikha Jawaher highlighted that Sharjah, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has always aimed to build organisations that extend beyond administrative bodies providing living projects rooted in values and reflecting the emirate's culture of giving, cooperation, as well as the safeguarding human dignity.H.H. said: 'Since the very first event organised by our first organisation, we made it a condition that every beauty-focused initiative must be paired with a charitable cause that serves a community in need — and this belief has never changed. Through this, we established a culture that distinguishes our organisations and created a humanitarian dimension to our gatherings and events, one that engages with global issues and challenges, and contributes to shaping a more just and compassionate future.''This collaboration between Irthi, The Big Heart Foundation, and Asprey demonstrates the value of unified efforts and shared resources in continuing to support noble humanitarian causes. When one party carries the legacy of heritage, another champions humanitarian responsibility, and a third the excellence of design, their partnership becomes a creative humanitarian initiative which is now embodied in the 'Precious Heart' collection. This reflects the role of art as a means of empowerment and a goodwill tool,' H.H. Highness also attended the opening of a silent charity auction for the collection, held at The Chedi Al Bait Hotel in Sharjah. Running until May 19, it offers a unique opportunity to acquire limited-edition pieces that merge the refined craftsmanship of an iconic global brand with the cultural identity of the UAE and a noble humanitarian mission. The agreement underpinning the collaboration between Irthi, TBHF, and Asprey was signed in London in 2024, establishing a unique global model for partnerships between craft organisations, humanitarian organisations, and luxury brands; all in aid of supporting noble causes. Asprey donated 1,000 grams of high-purity imperial jadeite, initially expected to produce 12 pieces valued at £4 million. However, due to the exceptional clarity of the jadeite, containing only 7% impurities compared to the typical 40%, the material yielded 20 pieces, raising the collection's total estimated Rigas, CEO of Asprey, commented: 'Our shared values of sustainability, craftsmanship, and humanitarian service are fully aligned. We are proud to collaborate with Irthi and The Big Heart Foundation on this unique collection, which honours Emirati heritage while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in BinKaram, Director General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stressed that Sheikha Jawaher's leadership ensured the council's initiatives had global reach and meaningful humanitarian impact. 'Heritage reflects a nation's shared values and cultural foundations. H.H.'s support has enabled Irthi to build strategic partnerships with some of the world's most respected brands, driven by our shared belief that art is a noble message and a universal language that can empower communities and cultivate compassion. Inspired by the traditional Emirati Talli craft, the 'Precious Heart' collection showcases our efforts to preserve and reinterpret our cultural heritage through contemporary design,' BinKaram Obaid Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, emphasised that the most important lesson from Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher's approach is that the sustainability of humanitarian work is not measured solely by the longevity of programmes but by the depth of their impact on people's lives and the inspiration they offer to institutions across sectors. 'The partnership between TBHF, Asprey, and Irthi is an example of sustainable collaboration and a creative model for mobilising resources and investing in art and craftsmanship to serve humanity. This is the true purpose of art and the role of heritage to serve as tools for change and aspirations toward a world where human dignity and rights are protected.'The 'Precious Heart' collection represents the vision of Sharjah and the UAE, blending authenticity and modernity, beauty and creativity, and a commitment to meaningful humanitarian change. It also invites institutions and companies worldwide to contribute to efforts that create a lasting impact for individuals and communities alike.
Khaleej Times
13-04-2025
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
UAE delegation led by Sharjah Deputy Ruler visits Palestinian refugee camp in Jordan
A delegation from the UAE, led by Sharjah Deputy Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, visited the Marka refugee camp in Jordan where over 70,000 Palestinian refugees are currently living. The delegation highlighted the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the escalating humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, and called for implementing sustainable development projects in health, education, and food security to provide essential life resource. 'The Palestinian people have endured decades of displacement and now face severe humanitarian suffering in Gaza as a result of the ongoing war, which has dismantled their social and institutional structures and deprived them of basic human rights, including access to education and healthcare,' the Sharjah Deputy Ruler said. 'Therefore, our humanitarian efforts must go beyond immediate relief to include sustainable projects that support current and future generations through health and education.' Al Qasimi added that humanitarian work is a religious and moral obligation, and a right of the vulnerable and the needy. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. His visit came alongside the the ongoing 'For Gaza' campaign, launched by Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi during Ramadan, to provide comprehensive support for more than 20,000 orphaned children in Gaza. Last month, The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) announced the launch of the campaign in partnership with Palestine-based Taawon Foundation to provide long-term care and essential services for orphaned children in the city. Food scarcity The delegation comprising representatives from TBHF, government entities, and private sector companies visited a food security project led by the humanitarian organization ANERA, which supports refugees and conflict-affected populations in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The initiative empowers refugee communities to produce food through farms and greenhouses, enabling year-round agricultural output. This model aims to strengthen self-reliance among refugees and lessen dependence on external assistance. Food scarcity is regarded as one of the fastest-escalating humanitarian crises, with immediate and profound impacts on communities during periods of conflict, instability, or natural disasters. The programme also included a visit to the Marka Girls' Preparatory School, operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Sheikh Sultan also met with members of the student parliament from Marka Camp who shared their educational experiences and the challenges they face. He toured classrooms, engaged with teaching staff, and reviewed the school's development plans and the camp's future educational requirements. He also met with representatives of the Tawoon Foundation where they discussed strategies for rapid response to essential needs and plans to provide critical services across key sectors. The Tawoon Board of Directors briefed the group about the Noor program for orphan care, launched in the Gaza Strip, where the number of children orphaned by the war has exceeded 39,000. The delegation also heard a series of recorded and live contributions from program staff based in Gaza and Egypt. The visit concluded with a debriefing session involving the accompanying delegation to review the outcomes and examine best practices in humanitarian work within Jordan's refugee camps. The discussion also addressed how these models could be adapted and applied to support refugees and displaced persons within the occupied Palestinian territories. His Highness underscored the importance of developing humanitarian programs and initiatives that respond effectively to the unprecedented challenges facing the region.
Gulf Today
20-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sharjah's Big Heart calls for helping 20,000 orphan children in Gaza
The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) has launched a renewed call to action, urging individuals and institutions to unite efforts for the 'For Gaza' campaign. In partnership with the Palestinian Taawon Welfare Association, the initiative provides long-term support for over 20,000 orphaned children in Gaza, ensuring access to education, healthcare, psychological aid, and essential needs. This message was reinforced at a charity Suhoor held on Monday evening at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park, bringing together philanthropists, business leaders, and humanitarian organisations to mobilise resources and advocate for sustained support. A panel discussion under way. The event featured panel discussions and keynote speeches highlighting the power of collaborative action in addressing the crisis. An art exhibition by University of Sharjah students further strengthened the campaign, raising Dhs90,000 to support Gaza's orphaned children. Goodness never stops, and solidarity remains unbreakable The Suhoor began with a speech by Alya Obaid Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, who highlighted that the "Salam Ya Seghar" campaign, launched 17 years ago, was the first initiative introduced by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of TBHF. This campaign laid the foundation for a lasting humanitarian commitment to Palestinian children: "Today, this commitment remains strong, reflected in real, tangible actions that restore hope to every child who has lost their family and dreams amidst the devastation of war and suffering." An art exhibition by University of Sharjah students raised Dhs90,000 for Gaza's children. Al Musaiebi added: "What distinguishes TBHF is its policy of not deducting administrative fees from donations or Zakat funds. We believe that every dirham contributed by generous donors should reach those in need in its entirety... We firmly believe that every contribution, no matter how modest, carries within it the promise of a new beginning for a child awaiting a glimmer of hope. More importantly, it sends a powerful message to the world that, as individuals and institutions, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most." Effective Development and Humanitarian Programmes: On his part, Dr Tareq Emtairah, Director General of Taawon Welfare Association, highlighted the organisation's vital role in implementing these initiatives in Gaza and ensuring that donations reach beneficiaries efficiently and transparently. He stressed that the partnership with TBHF serves as a leading model for unifying humanitarian efforts to create a sustainable and meaningful impact in supporting orphans in Gaza. 5 He said: "Drawing on our extensive experience in implementing effective development and humanitarian programmes, we at Taawon have developed the 'Noor' programme, a comprehensive initiative to support orphans in Gaza, which builds on our past experiences with the 'Wajd' and 'Mustaqbali' initiatives in 2009 and 2014." Strong collaboration to support humanitarian efforts: The event welcomed Hind Al Huwaidi, Chief Development Officer at BEEAH Group, who highlighted the strategic role of the private sector in supporting humanitarian efforts and ensuring the sustainability of development initiatives. She emphasised that collaboration between charitable organisations and businesses serves as an effective model for unifying efforts and expanding impact, ultimately contributing to sustainable community development and a stronger response to the most pressing humanitarian needs. Panel discussion highlights the campaign and donation options As part of the charity Suhoor, TBHF organised a panel discussion titled 'For Gaza: Towards a Sustainable Future.' The session featured Mariam Al Sarkal, Head of Partnerships at TBHF, and the Director-General of Taawon, moderated by Tarek Sakik, content creator and founder of the Takhayaal podcast. The discussion explored the role of the For Gaza campaign in supporting orphans in Gaza and the mechanisms for efficiently and transparently distributing donations. It also reaffirmed the campaign's long-term commitment to orphan care while emphasising the importance of partnering with Taawon to implement support programmes effectively. Donation channels and options The For Gaza campaign offers various donation options, allowing individuals and companies to support orphans in Gaza. One month of sponsorship is available for Dhs625, one year sponsorship for Dhs7,500, a five-year sponsorship for Dhs37,500, and a ten-year sponsorship for Dhs75,000. Additionally, the campaign includes the Eid Clothing Initiative, enabling donors to bring joy to orphaned children by contributing Dhs200. To facilitate participation, the campaign provides several donation channels, including bank transfers via Sharjah Islamic Bank (Account: 0011-430430-002), cheque payments to The Big Heart Foundation headquarters, cash donations at TBHF offices, online contributions via or SMS donations or via +971505350152.
