In a significant move towards empowering women and enhancing their psychological and personal skills, the Sharjah Family Development Foundation launched the initiative “180 Degrees of Change” on Thursday. This initiative is part of the “Women in Fields of Influence” programme, specifically aimed at mothers with children aged between 12 and 18 years.
A Comprehensive Approach to Women’s Empowerment
The launch event was attended by Her Excellency Mouda Al Shamsi, President of the Sharjah Family Development Foundation, alongside a distinguished group of specialists focused on family and psychological well-being. The venue for this initiative was the Sharjah Ladies Club, which served as a collaborative space for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and experiential learning.
Interactive Sessions and Personal Development
This programme presents an interactive environment where participants can engage in discussions and acquire skills that have practical applications in their personal and family lives. Central to the discussions were the roles and spheres of influence of women, with special focus on sessions like “Family Impact and Support,” which explored topics related to mental and emotional support, as well as the crucial role of mothers in fostering balanced relationships with their children.
The Importance of Psychological Resilience
During one session, Professor Ameera Al Marzouqi highlighted the necessity for mothers to possess psychological flexibility and skills to effectively engage with their teenage children. She emphasised that enhancing mothers’ awareness and psychological skills not only benefits them directly but also extends to their children, improving family communication and equipping them to manage daily challenges in a more balanced and effective manner.
Focus on Mental and Physical Health
The programme also included specialised discussions on women’s mental and physical health, the equilibrium between personal commitments and life, as well as activities that promote mental wellness. Techniques for alleviating stress and managing anxiety were integral components of the curriculum.
Practical Tools for Everyday Life
As a practical element, participants engaged in an interactive session led by Professor Afra Salem, who provided tools for managing anxiety and stress. The goal was to equip attendees with practical strategies to help them navigate daily pressures with awareness and flexibility.
Investing in Self-Development
Professor Afra Salem underscored the importance of viewing self-development and mental health as a vital investment, one that significantly impacts not only their immediate family but also their wider community. She asserted that fostering self-awareness and attention to mental well-being contributes to women who are more capable of balancing challenges and promoting family stability and quality of life.
Foundation’s Commitment to Family Development
The “Women in Fields of Influence” programme epitomises the Sharjah Family Development Foundation’s commitment to delivering quality programmes that position women at the forefront of family development. The Foundation firmly believes that positive change originates from within, and that a woman’s growth, awareness, and ability to manage herself and her relationships are fundamental to creating resilient family units capable of adapting to life’s fluctuations.
The “180 Degrees of Change” initiative is a continuation of the Foundation’s efforts to support families and enhance quality of family life through programmes that combine education, personal development, and practical experience. This initiative offers participants a chance to learn, engage, and acquire skills essential for fostering lasting positive change in their lives, families, and communities.