Recently launched by the Federal Youth Foundation, the “Social Missions Program for Youth” aims to equip Emirati youth for participation in global social missions encompassing humanitarian, developmental, and cultural initiatives. With this initiative, the Foundation seeks to nurture specialized national talent through training programs that enhance social responsibility among the youth of the UAE. This effort aligns with the “Society and Values” focus within the National Youth Agenda 2031, reinforcing the country’s commitment to global volunteerism and sustainable development.
Program Objectives
The program, introduced during a launch event in Japan, is designed to empower Emirati youth to represent the nation in high-priority missions. It promotes a culture of volunteerism and community responsibility, reflecting the core values of the UAE. Participants will develop specialized skills through targeted training programs that prepare them for active engagement in the field, creating a tangible impact. The program also supports global crisis response efforts and contributes to the achievement of sustainable development goals, while fostering cultural exchange and the positive soft power of the UAE on the world stage through meaningful youth participation.
Inspiration and Vision
According to Khalid Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal Youth Foundation, the UAE has consistently strived to support humanitarian causes, embodying the vision of the nation’s founding leader, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. His legacy instilled in the Emirati people a spirit of generosity and solidarity with those facing crises, disasters, and emergencies. This steadfast commitment has positioned the UAE as one of the most influential countries in providing aid to communities in need, including medical and food assistance, as well as developmental projects globally.
Active Participation in Humanitarian Efforts
Al Nuaimi emphasized that the launch of the “Social Missions Program for Youth” marks an important step in enhancing the UAE’s vital role in volunteer work and humanitarian aid. Involving youth in these noble efforts fosters their role as a significant global force for change and community support. The program aligns with the National Youth Agenda 2031, which encourages young people to actively contribute to society while maintaining their connection to Emirati values. It aims to prepare an inspired and capable generation to create a positive impact within their communities and globally for the greater good of humanity.
Program Offerings and Benefits
The “Social Missions Program for Youth” focuses on enabling Emirati youth to take active roles in humanitarian, developmental, and cultural fields around the world. Humanitarian missions will focus on providing urgent assistance to disaster-affected areas, including food distribution, medical supplies, psychological support, and relief efforts. Developmental missions aim to implement sustainable projects that enhance quality of life, such as building schools, supporting education, promoting livelihoods, and engaging in environmental initiatives to combat climate change. Cultural missions will encourage cultural exchange and highlight Emirati identity through the organization of events and educational programs that foster understanding between cultures.
Over the next five years, the program will target youth aged between 21 and 35 who are passionate about humanitarian work and wish to instill values of solidarity and social responsibility. It offers participants insights into global issues and humanitarian needs, enhancing international collaboration and tolerance while providing opportunities to acquire effective communication, leadership, and time management skills. This engagement not only fosters their self-confidence but also prepares them to adapt to diverse and changing work environments, thereby enabling them to contribute positively to social development projects and humanitarian causes.
Participants will benefit from numerous quality offerings, including the honorary title of “Humanitarian Ambassadors” and opportunities to document their experiences through media content. The program also constructs partnerships with international organizations dedicated to humanitarian and community work, ensuring participants receive certified credentials from accredited bodies and genuine opportunities for field missions in collaboration with partner organizations.
The program includes training workshops, field visits, meetings with experts in humanitarian work, practical training, and research that prepares youth for effective participation in international humanitarian missions. Additionally, it will open new horizons for volunteering and relief work while organizing global forums to celebrate the contributions of Emirati youth to the humanitarian sector. The initiative also involves their active engagement in national and regional field missions to support communities during emergencies.