Latest news with #PeopleOfDetermination
Associated Press
11-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Putting Everyone to Work; Zayed Higher Organization Unveils Bee Café
UAE's First Coffee Shops Staffed by Certified Uniquely Abled Workers ABU DHABI, UAE / ACCESS Newswire / July 11, 2025 / Zayed Higher Organization today announces the launch of its Bee Cafe, the first cafe brand of its kind in the United Arab Emirates to be operated by uniquely abled people internationally certified as baristas. Designed as a vocational training program and long-term employment solution that provides financial independence for its workers, it also expects a positive business return, proving that everyone wins when everyone works. Today's announcement celebrates three openings of Bee Cafe locations throughout Abu Dhabi. Located at ZHO's headquarters, at the Emirates Red Crescent Authority and The Innovation Center events complex, the decor represents a place for strong social connectivity, productivity and belonging. Each location serves specialty coffee and a selection of pastries. The Bee Cafe is a non-profit venture of Zayed Higher Organization (ZHO), with all revenue reinvested into the programming to support uniquely abled. Governed by the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, ZHO has served as a model throughout the MENA region of advancement. Since 2017 the UAE refers to members of the community as 'People of Determination' as a respectful nod to the level of purpose and persistence of someone physical and/or intellectual challenges. 'As a mother, it means the world to see my son grow with confidence and purpose. Thanks to the support of Zayed Higher Organization and his experience at Bee Cafe, he now has a meaningful role, new skills, and a sense of independence. He is also officially a certified barista, a qualification that's recognized internationally. I no longer worry about his future because I trust that he's in the right place, surrounded by people who believe in him.' said Hamda Khadim Al Qubaisi, the parent of Hazaa Mohamed Almehairbi. 'At Zayed Higher Organization, we believe that People of Determination possess unique energies that deserve to be discovered and invested in,' said His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary General of ZHO. 'The personal and professional successes that we have developed in the Bee Café employment model confirms that focusing on ability-based employment is the key to building a more inclusive and equitable society. In partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association, our nine employees were the first uniquely abled cohort to receive the internationally accredited barista certificate. The skills they learn by getting this certificate opens doors for them to have a sustainable future (even) beyond the Bee Café.' Broadening vocational and workplace pathways programs is a top priority of ZHO. The focus for ability-driven work is in practice in the United States. Dr. Ivan Rosenberg, founder of the Uniquely Abled Project, a vocational program for machining in the US and Oman said, 'Everybody that has a job challenge has a compensating unique ability that enables them to be highly successful in a work capacity.' The American non-profit, Helping Adults with Autism Perform and Excel (HAAPE), touts a proprietary algorithm that estimates the increase to the GDP if businesses hire autistic workers. Dr. Larry Rothman, president, provided a cursory estimate of nearly $500M in new income to the economy of UAE if all autistic adults were hired, proving the wrap around value of workforce pathway programs available to all people. ZHO invites the public to experience the cafe, support its mission, and help it grow. Visit ZHO Instagram and the Bee Café Instagram for more information. Media inquiries: Heidi Kershaw, Founder of Global Autism Coalition, 571-277-7482, [email protected] SOURCE: Global Autism Coalition press release
Al Bawaba
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Al Bawaba
Dubai Sports Council announces Snow, Water, Mountain and Mall activities as part of 'Our Summer is Sporty' initiative
The Dubai Sports Council has announced the launch of its 'Our Summer is Sporty' initiative, which will run until the end of events will take place across various locations in Dubai, featuring new and diverse activities such as the first-ever Snow Duathlon, indoor mall races and snow-based stationary cycling competitions. The initiative is being organised in collaboration with numerous national institutions and sports event organisers.'Our Summer is Sporty' aims to promote a culture of physical activity and encourage all segments of society - residents and visitors of all ages and nationalities - to actively participate in summer sports. It stands as a pioneering community initiative to enhance the quality of life in Dubai and further solidify its position as one of the most active cities in the range of events, locationsThe initiative offers a broad array of sports activities, including beach, snow, water, mountain, women's and People of Determination events. It also features competitive tournaments, training camps and recreational activities, providing an inclusive community platform that aligns with Dubai's vision of becoming the world's most active sports highlightsSki Dubai at Mall of the Emirates will host an exciting line-up of innovative snow sports events. Leading the programme is the first-ever Snow Duathlon, scheduled for June 29. Additional activities include snow yoga, snow walking, open challenges, fitness classes and snow spinning sessions specially designed for women and families in a safe, professionally organised programme also features a women's snow hike, adaptive skiing activities for People of Determination, ice skating championships, a senior citizens' snow walk and a summer ski the unique activities is snow yoga (Snoga), which recently attracted significant participation from women at Ski Dubai, where temperatures reached minus 4 degrees Celsius. Other events include fitness competitions at Luna Sports Centre for women, the Kabayan Badminton Challenge at We Meet Sports Club and the Ski Dubai Grand Prix for freestyle activitiesHatta will host a range of summer sports events, supported by the Supreme Committee for Overseeing the Development of Hatta. Activities will include mountain hiking, trail running, kayaking, yoga, night walks and indoor sports sessions in air-conditioned sports adventuresJumeirah beaches and the Waterfront will feature a series of water sports events, including kayaking, stand-up paddling and Dubai International Marine Club will organise an Open Water Sports Day at Jumeirah Beach, offering surfing and kayaking activities. In collaboration with the Dubai Sailing and Yacht Club, a series of summer sailing races and other marine events will also be Hamdan Sports Complex will host several key events, including the Iron Star Indoor Triathlon, the Global Meet Festival and a variety of activities for senior racesSeveral indoor running races will take place across Dubai's shopping malls, providing a unique, climate-controlled environment suitable for all age groups and offering an enjoyable summer experience for running scheduled mall races include:• Dubai Hills Mall: June 28 and July 13• Ibn Battuta Mall: July 13• City Centre Mirdif: July 6• Mall of the Emirates: August 3• Wafi Mall: August 10• Dubai Festival City Mall: August 31In addition to these, many other indoor running races will be organised throughout competitions and campsThe initiative also features specialised training programmes for various community groups, particularly women, senior citizens and People of Determination. Programmes will include women's fitness classes, as well as women's football and basketball tournaments at Danube Sports World and Jam Sports fitness activities will also be provided for senior citizens, alongside inclusive sports events that enable People of Determination to actively participate in a supportive, integrated environment.A series of summer sports camps will target children and youth, offering multi-sport training in swimming, gymnastics and skating under the supervision of certified coaches at fully equipped sports children's summer camp at Dubai Sports World and the sports camp at Danube Sports World will run concurrently from June 30 to August sporting events include:• The World Curling Masters Tour at Dubai Ice Rink on July 4• Fight Night Boxing Championship on July 4 at The Crafty Fox, Jumeirah Golf Estates• Wrestling Championship at Warehouse Four on July 19• Cycling and scooter competitions at the Meydan track, offering participants professional outdoor sports experiences• Men's football and basketball tournaments at Danube Sports World and Jam Sports AcademyPublic and private sector collaborationThe 'Our Summer is Sporty' initiative is supported by numerous governmental and private sector organisations. Events and activities are being held in collaboration with specialised local and international sports organisers at fully-equipped venues such as Hamdan Sports Complex, Dubai Sports World, Danube Sports World, Ski Dubai and various multi-purpose sports an active lifestyleThe initiative is part of the Dubai Sports Council's broader vision to make physical activity an essential component of daily life for the emirate's residents and visitors. All events are organised to the highest safety and professional standards, with additional activities to be announced in the coming weeks. The Dubai Sports Council invites all members of the community to participate in these diverse activities, take advantage of this pioneering initiative, and enjoy the many opportunities to stay active throughout the summer.
Zawya
23-06-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Emirates Motor Company onboards Emirati people of determination through Bee Café Initiative
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Emirates Motor Company (EMC), the flagship company of Al Fahim Group, has welcomed four new Emirati employees who are People of Determination, through a meaningful collaboration with Bee Café, a pioneering initiative by the Zayed Higher Organisation (ZHO). As part of EMC's inclusive Emiratization strategy, the new hires are officially employed by EMC. They will carry out their roles at Bee Café in Abu Dhabi, the UAE's first café fully operated by People of Determination. The Bee Café stands as a powerful symbol of workplace diversity and the meaningful contributions all UAE talent brings to the professional world. Supported by Al Fahim Group, this innovative employment model reflects EMC's commitment to creating accessible job opportunities in environments that nurture individual strengths and potential. This initiative also forms part of Al Fahim Group's broader Emiratisation and inclusion program, aimed at empowering People of Determination through diverse career pathways that encourage long-term professional and social integration. The company warmly welcomed its newest team members, marking a significant milestone in its recruitment efforts and reaffirming its dedication to inclusive national development. Al Fahim Group and its subsidiary, Emirates Motor Company, share a firm conviction about the importance of recognising talent in all its forms and creating inclusive opportunities for all. Such initiatives, although regarded as small steps, can lead to meaningful change, especially as more organisations come together to support and acknowledge the value of people with Determination in the UAE's thriving society. About Emirates Motor Company As the flagship company of ALFAHIM Group, Emirates Motor Company (EMC) – Mercedes-Benz General Authorized Distributor in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi since 1962, symbolises the phenomenal growth and success the group has achieved. In true Mercedes-Benz tradition, EMC continuously strives for customer satisfaction and excellence. EMC markets, distributes and services Mercedes-Benz vehicles, from luxury sedans through SUVs, sporty AMG vehicles as well as electrice cars, providing quality service by certified experts. Operations in Abu Dhabi are carried out from purpose-built premises with a well-integrated network of showrooms, offices, part depots and workshops. About ALFAHIM Group ALFAHIM Group is one of the UAEs most successful family businesses. Based in Abu Dhabi, the conglomerate has played an intrinsic role in the development of the country's progressive economy, and continues to harness its assets to deliver on a clearly defined mission: To remain a leading sustainable group of companies providing prosperity for future generations across multiple industries. Through its portfolio of companies across the automotive, real estate, energy and travel sectors, the group is a key contributor to Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030 leading to a more sustainable and diversified economy.
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
UAE delegation to COSP18 hosts international session discuss new ways to improve community inclusion for people of determination
The UAE's pioneering and scalable solutions redefine the concept of inclusive cities, inspiring global action for People of Determination. New York – The UAE delegation at the 18th Session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP18) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) hosted a session titled "Amplifying Our Voices: A Collective Ambition Towards Re-Imagining Community Inclusion for All" as part of its efforts to empowering and integrating individuals of all abilities into the development process. This session was organised through a collaborative effort by the Permanent Mission of the UAE to the United Nations, the Ministry of Family, the National Projects Office, the Executive Council of Dubai, the Department of Community Development in Abu Dhabi, Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity, the Asian Paralympic Committee, and Sedra Foundation. It reaffirmed the UAE's strong commitment to creating integrated support systems for People of Determination while contributing innovative ideas and visions to global efforts, inspiring effective action on a global scale. This UAE delegation used this session as a strategic platform for discussing the latest strategies aimed at advancing inclusive urban development and enhancing community integration. They showcased the "POD-Friendly City Prototype" and the conceptual framework for creating a "Global Index" for these cities, thereby presenting a clear vision and an ambitious roadmap for designing cities that ensure full accessibility for People of Determination, while establishing measurable global standards for inclusivity. Both fundamental initiatives aim to bring about a qualitative transformation in the lived experiences of individuals by addressing accessibility challenges at both systemic and community levels. In her keynote speech during the UAE Session, Her Excellency Sana Suhail, Minister for Family, emphasised the nation's insightful vision and inspiring leadership in reimagining inclusive cities, despite the challenges facing the region. Her Excellency stated: "The UAE is determined to build a future where inclusion is a fundamental rule. Through innovative programmes and advanced frameworks, we hope to achieve a radical transformation that redefines how societies support and empower People of Determination." Her Excellency Sana Suhail highlighted the session's strong focus on the role of family, community, and institutional partnerships in achieving true empowerment. 'True empowerment starts with family, and when families, communities, and institutions work together, we create a world where People of Determination can thrive. That's why, at the Ministry of Family, we are committed to equipping parents, siblings, and extended families with the tools they need to support their loved ones', Her Excellency said. The session also highlighted the inspiring voices of People of Determination, whose lived experiences enriched practical and actionable recommendations for removing barriers and enhancing their active participation in civic life. In his opening address, His Excellency Majid Al-Usaimi, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, National Ambassador to UNICEF in Dubai, and CEO of the Dubai Club for People of Determination, praised the leadership of the United Arab Emirates for its unwavering support for people of determination across various sectors. He said: "We are incredibly proud of the achievements the UAE has made in terms of policies, laws, and programmes. Chief among these is the National Policy, which encompasses six main pillars addressing education, healthcare, and a suitable social living environment, among other areas. The UAE has become a global role model, recognised as one of the nations exporting expertise. There is no doubt about this, thanks to the cooperation of our allies and friends worldwide who joined us at this conference.' Al-Usaimi highlighted the importance of exchanging ideas and experiences at such conferences, stressing how artificial intelligence and advanced technology can enhance the daily lives of people of determination both in academic and professional settings. Dr Victor Pineda, President & Founder of World Enabled, Berkeley, California and Executive Director at the Center of Independent Living (CIL), Berkeley, California delivered powerful remarks. He discussed the progress of disability rights, emphasizing the impact of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and reflected on his experience of starting CRPD negotiations 23 years ago. As a long-time UAE partner, he praised its progress over the past 20 years since ratifying the CRPD, noting its inclusive policies driven by unity and innovation. Victor called for eliminating barriers, reducing stigma, and empowering people with disabilities, particularly in the AI era, saying: "If artificial intelligence is taught to people with disabilities, we have a chance not only to catch up, but to lead." Through constructive engagement with international delegations, experts, and advocates of the rights of People of Determination, the UAE Session clearly demonstrated how pioneering strategies such as the "POD-Friendly City Prototype" and the conceptual "Global Index" can be adapted across different geographical regions, with the aim of building inclusive and resilient urban environments. Attendees exchanged valuable ideas on formulating a shared blueprint that ensures accessibility, equity, and equal opportunities for all. With a continuous focus on innovation and scalable strategies, the UAE reinforced its role as a global leader in providing comprehensive solutions that fully align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Concluding the session, Her Excellency Sana Suhail called for concerted global collaboration to advance community inclusion worldwide. Her Excellency said, 'Achieving a world that truly empowers People of Determination requires us all to think boldly and work together to redefine community inclusion as a shared responsibility.' The session highlighted the UAE's impactful role as a global leader in shaping inclusive policies and systems. The delegation showcased a unified effort and a comprehensive approach to supporting people of determination, involving government entities, private sector institutions, and community members dedicated to this cause. The 18th Conference of States Parties is a key global platform for countries to showcase their achievements. The UAE participated prominently, emphasising its commitment to equal opportunities as a foundation for sustainable development for all. These ongoing efforts stand as a testament to the UAE's belief that an inclusive society is a stronger, more resilient society. About the Ministry of Family On 8th December 2024, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the establishment of the Ministry of Family in the United Arab Emirates. This initiative, guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, positions the Ministry as the principal authority for developing and implementing policies, strategies, and legislation aimed at fostering stable and cohesive families across the UAE. Its core remit includes bolstering the family's role in nurturing sound upbringing, reinforcing national identity, and promoting positive values and behaviours within society. Furthermore, the Ministry will play a crucial part in undertaking research and proposing vital policies and initiatives to boost family fertility rates and mitigate the risks and adverse societal impacts of family breakdown, working closely with all pertinent specialist agencies.
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment participates in AccessAbilities Expo 2025
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Reaffirming its commitment to supporting the UAE's efforts in empowering and integrating People of Determination, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) has announced its participation in the 7th edition of the AccessAbilities Expo 2025. The event will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from October 6 to 8, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. This participation aligns with MBRHE's strategy to provide an inclusive and sustainable residential environment by developing innovative solutions and offering flexible housing services that meet the diverse needs of all segments of society, especially People of Determination. The expo serves as a key platform for showcasing the latest innovations in assistive technologies. It is expected to host around 270 exhibitors from 50 countries and welcome over 15,000 visitors from across the globe. The event will highlight a wide range of technologies, including wearable devices, smart systems, interactive mobility applications, and advanced prosthetics designed to support physical, visual, and cognitive disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders. Commenting on the participation, Thilal Khalifa Al Falasi, Assistant CEO for Corporate Support Sector at MBRHE, stated:"At MBRHE, we believe that empowerment begins with a human-centered residential environment that respects diversity, supports independence, and enhances social stability and quality of life. Our participation in this event underscores our commitment to fostering community inclusion through innovative housing projects that leverage the latest assistive technologies, ultimately ensuring long-term integration and well-being for People of Determination." Through this engagement, the establishment aims to showcase its efforts in adopting universal design standards and presenting innovative models in residential facilities that align with Dubai's vision of becoming the world's most disability-friendly city. Over the past years, MBRHE has launched several pioneering initiatives, including the 'People of Determination Charter,' signed cooperation agreements with specialized centers, and implemented accessibility features across its housing projects to ensure ease of use and inclusion. About Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment: The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment is a government entity committed to delivering proactive and sustainable housing services to UAE nationals through flexible policies and strategic partnerships, driven by innovation and digital transformation in line with Dubai's future vision. Media Inquiries: Khalid Mohammed Al Bannai, Head of Communication, MBRHE Email: kalbannai@ Ghada Yousuf Abdullah, Communication Specialist, MBRHE Email: gabdulla@
