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The National
25-02-2025
- General
- The National
Arab Hope Makers are a timely antidote to growing global fatalism
When confronted by global challenges such as climate change, war and poverty, it is understandable that people can become despondent. Many news headlines can lead to a sense that more people are working to harm, rather than improve, the state of the world. However, many individuals play their part in building a better world – last year's World Giving Index found that 4.3 billion people gave time, money or helped a stranger in 2023 – despite that fact that the size and complexity of 21st-century problems remain daunting. A recent study by Gallup, conducted across 52 countries, representing 76 per cent of the world's adult population and 86 per cent of global gross domestic product, found hope to be the primary need of followers worldwide. According to the study, more than half (56 per cent) of all attributes linked to influential leaders pointed to hope. Given this, public recognition of those who go the extra mile becomes even more important, particularly because such figures can inspire and motivate others. It is no different in the UAE, where philanthropy is an integral part of the country's culture; the World Giving Index last year also ranked the Emirates as the ninth-most generous nation worldwide. Generosity, philanthropy and efforts to help others all feed into creating hope, especially in situations that may seem hopeless. On Sunday evening in Dubai, the role philanthropy plays in the Emirates was again celebrated when Moroccan charity worker Ahmed Zainoun became the winner of the 2025 Arab Hope Makers award. Mr Zainoun cares for children who suffer from a rare disease that causes extreme damage when they are exposed to sunlight, effectively condemning them to live in the dark. Established in 2017 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, the award honours people in the Arab world who dedicate themselves to bettering the lives of others. Finding and identifying 'hope makers' is in itself an effort to look for bright spots in the region and to champion those responsible for them. As well as helping the winners financially, it also provides them with a high-profile platform to highlight the issues so close to their hearts These causes can be a rare syndrome that affects a relatively small number of people, such the children cared for by Mr Zainoun, or more common problems. This can be seen in the work of two other nominees whose work was honoured at Sunday's award ceremony. Egypt's Samar Nadeem offers shelter to neglected elderly mothers who have been condemned to a life on the streets after being abandoned by their families. Khadija Al Qarti, another Moroccan, opened her home to female cancer patients after losing her husband to the disease. Taking in 30 patients a day, Ms Al Qarti gives them food, drink and a place to sleep for free. In the past 15 years, she has helped about 60,000 women. The work of these two formidable women, as well as helping the individuals involved, also highlights societal issues around cancer and health care for women more broadly. The power of Arab Hope Makers and awards like it lies in the attention that they can direct to such issues. Too many charities and individual humanitarians struggle to raise awareness and attract enough funding. Exposure that highlights the winners' capability and reputation boosts their credibility and puts them on stronger footing to seek more financial and logistical support. Arab Hope Makers also presents a valuable networking opportunity, sharing skills and experience to better help those in need. Mohammed Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has described Arab Hope Makers as 'a realistic call to combat despair and negativity by focusing on the positive within our Arab communities'. Celebrating those who put others first – day in, day out – is a vital tonic against fatalism.
Morocco World
24-02-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
UAE Prime Minister Names Morocco's Ahmed Zainoun Arab Hope Maker
Rabat – The Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has named Moroccan Ahmed Zainoun the top Arab Hope Maker. Zainoun was crowned during a grand ceremony on Sunday at the fifth edition of the Hope Makers initiative in Dubai. He also received a prize money of AED1 million ($272,000), according to the Emirates News Agency. The award honors people who make a positive difference in people's lives. Zainoun received the highest number of votes during the closing ceremony for his foundation 'Moon Voice,' that helps children with the genetic disorder Xeroderma Pigmentosum, commonly referred to as 'Children of the Moon.' Zainoun took to his social media to celebrate the recognition, saying that it is the culmination of years of 'work, effort, and struggle to create hope for children who have lost hope in life.' The other two finalists, Samar Nadeem from Egypt and Khadija Al-Qorti from Morocco, also received a prize money of AED1 million each. Speaking at the award ceremony, Al Maktoum described hope makers as 'inspiring role models' who transform lives without seeking recognition. 'Hope Makers embody the true meaning of selfless giving, working tirelessly behind the scenes … leaving an enduring legacy of humanitarianism,' the ruler of Dubai added, as reported by local media He added that the Arab world is 'rich' in such examples of hope makers that display 'kindness and service,' noting the importance of recognizing their efforts and encouraging such initiatives. The fifth edition of the Hope Makers initiative received over 26,000 entries within only a month, bringing the number of participants throughout all editions to 320,000. 'Since its inception in 2017, Hope Makers has become a landmark initiative in the Arab world's humanitarian landscape. It inspires positive competition, motivating individuals to serve their communities and develop innovative projects that address the needs of thousands,' said Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs. Tags: hope makermoon childrenMoroccoUAE
Emirates 24/7
24-02-2025
- Health
- Emirates 24/7
Mohammed bin Rashid crowns Ahmed Zainoun of Morocco as leading Arab Hope Maker
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, in the presence of H.H> Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, crowned Ahmed Zainoun from Morocco as the top Arab Hope Maker. Zainoun received a prize of AED1 million. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed also directed that the two other finalists, Samar Nadeem from Egypt and Khadija Al-Qorti from Morocco, also be honoured with equivalent cash prizes of AED1 million, thus raising the total value of prizes presented with the Hope Makers awards to AED3 million. Zainoun earned the top honours after receiving the highest number of votes during the closing ceremony of the 5th edition of the Hope Makers initiative, the largest of its kind in the Arab region dedicated to honouring people who make a difference to the lives of others. Zainoun was recognised for his initiative to treat children with the disorder called Xeroderma Pigmentosum. Young patients suffering from the condition are also referred to as 'Children of the Moon.' The closing ceremony of the initiative was held at the Coca Cola Arena today and its broadcasts watched by tens of millions across the Arab world. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said, 'Hope Makers embody the true meaning of selfless giving, working tirelessly behind the scenes. They are inspiring role models, transforming lives without seeking recognition, leaving an enduring legacy of humanitarianism. The Arab world is rich in such examples of kindness and service. Recognising these initiatives is an acknowledgment of the values of generosity and compassion.' Congratulating the winners and all participants, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed added, 'Thousands of inspiring individuals across the Arab world joined this fifth edition of Arab Hope Makers. These philanthropists embody generosity and a commitment to positive change, serving as beacons of hope for a brighter future. The UAE remains dedicated to supporting hope and inspiring initiatives, serving as a champion of optimism in the Arab world.' The closing ceremony was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council; and H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture). The fifth edition of the Hope Makers initiative received over 26,000 nominations within a span of just one month. Each nomination was carefully reviewed according to the initiative's criteria. Over the past five editions, the initiative has engaged more than 320,000 participants. Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, and Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), stated that the Hope Makers initiative reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of fostering a culture of giving and encouraging humanitarians and volunteers to develop impactful projects that drive positive change and counter negativity across Arab communities. Al Gergawi added, 'Since its inception in 2017, Hope Makers has become a landmark initiative in the Arab world's humanitarian landscape. It inspires positive competition, motivating individuals to serve their communities and develop innovative projects that address the needs of thousands, empowering them to rebuild their lives with hope and confidence in the future.' Al Gergawi noted that receiving over 26,000 nominations in a single month for the fifth edition, with the vast majority of participants presenting innovative charitable projects, demonstrates the Arab world's rich humanitarian spirit and its people's capacity to create a brighter future. Hosted by Neshan Der Haroutiounian and Asmahan Al Naqbi, the fifth edition's closing ceremony featured several performances, including a musical operetta by Hammoud Al-Khader, Walid Al-Shami, Balqees, and Omar Al-Abdallat, which preceded the announcement of the Arab world's top Hope Maker. Internationally renowned singer and music producer RedOne also performed at the ceremony. At Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena, attendees watched videos showcasing the journeys of the three finalists, highlighting their humanitarian work and the impact they made in the lives of those in need, including orphans, the sick, the elderly, and the homeless. The audience also heard inspiring stories from two Hope Makers from Tunisia and Mauritania. Samar Nadeem, founder of the 'Zahrat Masr' shelter, dedicated her life to helping others. Raised with a strong sense of compassion, she began her journey in 2016 by assisting an elderly woman living in her building, helping facilitate for her basic necessities that she lacked. After sharing the woman's plight on Facebook and receiving an outpouring of support, Samar began receiving numerous requests for help from the public. She responded by aiding the homeless and placing them in shelters. In 2017, Samar founded 'Zahrat Masr' to provide safe housing for elderly homeless individuals, and today, the shelter houses dozens of people from across Egypt. Ahmed Zainoun leads the 'Moon Voice' association, which supports children with Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP). Also known as 'Children of the Moon,' young people with this rare genetic disorder are extremely sensitive to ultraviolet light, raising their risk of skin cancer. Since there is no cure, protection through special creams and UV-protective clothing is crucial. Zainoun cares for 144 children with XP, raising funds to provide them with necessary medications and protective gear. Despite his efforts, some children have succumbed to the disease, motivating him to seek further support for Moon Voice to enable these children to live fulfilling lives and continue their education. Zainoun remains dedicated to his mission, hoping for greater community support to instill hope in young patients and to help them adapt to their condition and lead enriching lives. Khadija al-Qorti has become a symbol of hope for cancer patients in Morocco, particularly women. Known affectionately as the 'Mother of Morocco's Patients,' her journey began after losing both her husband and sister to cancer. Turning personal tragedy into a mission for compassionate action, she opened the doors to her home in Rabat, providing free shelter, food, medicine, and emotional support to women battling the disease. With the help of donors, she later expanded her efforts by establishing the Jannat Association, a larger facility to continue her charitable work. Despite limited resources, Khadija has welcomed over 10,000 women from across Morocco since 2009, offering them a place to stay and daily meals for up to three weeks while they seek treatment. Tunisian Hope Maker Karim Arfa builds and repairs bridges in his area using recycled materials. Inspired by the tragic drowning of a schoolgirl in 2019, he has proudly constructed over ten bridges around the town of El Mourouj to ensure safe passage over rivers and streams for locals. He also runs a small public works company and recycles old furniture to donate to those in need. Mauritanian rapper Racine Dia, abandoned as a baby and raised by a loving family, now dedicates his life to rescuing orphaned and abandoned children. Inspired by his personal experience, he provides care, shelter, and a sense of belonging to dozens of children. To further his work, he founded the 'Association for the Fight Against Child Abandonment,' which, with the help of volunteers, provides a supportive environment for these children to thrive and integrate into society. The Hope Makers initiative, operating under the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, aims to highlight these unsung heroes – the men and women dedicating their time, effort, and resources to serving others, aiding those in need, and improving lives. It seeks to amplify their stories and projects through traditional and digital media, increasing their recognition within their communities and across the Arab world. By showcasing these positive role models, particularly among youth, the initiative aims to inspire others towards constructive change and community development, celebrating them as true stars deserving of praise and recognition. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
The National
23-02-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Sheikh Mohammed awards prizes to Arab Hope Makers 2025
The winners of the 2025 Arab Hope Makers award were announced at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday evening. Samar Nadeem, Ahmed Zainoun and Khadija Al Qarti will receive Dh1 million each in recognition of their humanitarian work. The award was established by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, to honour people in the Arab world who dedicate their lives to humanitarian work. Ms Nadeem, also known as Egypt's rose, provides a safe haven for abandoned and neglected elderly mothers. She offers them shelter and picks them up from the streets after they have been abandoned by their families. 'I always tell my kids, if I grow old and wear a nappy, don't leave me. It's only a matter of days before I go to God,' she said. 'I hope that anyone who has a parent on the street will take them in before I do. It doesn't mean that just because your parents are sick, you should abandon them. They are heaven on earth.' Mr Zainoun cares for Children of the Moon, who suffer from a rare disease where exposure to sunlight causes extreme damage. 'I never imagined that people lived in the dark. A child dies without anyone hearing a voice,' said Mr Zainoun, from Morocco. Mr Zainoun provides everything for them, including masks with a heat-protective layer, making it his mission to bring them out into the sun. Ms Al Qarti, also from Morocco, lost her husband to cancer, which inspired her to help people in any way she could. She opened her home to cancer patients, sheltering more than 120 women at a time. Over 15 years, her house became a haven for 60,000 women suffering from cancer – many despondent, and one suicidal. She took in 30 patients per day, providing them with food, drink, and a place to sleep for free. 'I have one door. God has many doors,' she said. Arab Hope Makers was established in 2017 by Sheikh Mohammed. It attracted more than 300,000 nominations during its first four events. The award was launched to celebrate people engaged in projects that improve and uplift society. Sheikh Mohammed said the fifth Hope Makers received more than 26,000 stories from young men and women. "Hope is the bridge that connects the reality we live in and the future we desire. We must contribute to building bridges for millions of young people so that they are not overcome by despair and hopelessness," said Sheikh Mohammed earlier this month. In December, the Dubai Ruler encouraged people to nominate themselves or others on the Arab Hope Makers website. At the end of last year, Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, spoke of the importance of the award in showing charitable endeavours all over the region. "This initiative is a realistic call to combat despair and negativity by focusing on the positive within our Arab communities," Mr Al Gergawi said.
