In a significant move to enhance community engagement and volunteerism, the Board of Trustees of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work convened for a regular meeting at the House of Wisdom Library in Sharjah. The primary objective of this gathering was to discuss the ongoing development of various initiatives related to the award and to review preparations for the launch of its twenty-third edition scheduled for November 2025. This effort is part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the ecosystem of volunteer work and promoting a culture of giving and community responsibility.
Key Discussions and Developments
Chaired by the honorable Mariam Majid Al Shamsi, Chair of the Board of Trustees, the meeting was attended by key members including Dr. Jassim Al Hammadi, Secretary-General of the award, Hamid Ali Al Abbar Al Shamsi, Dr. Musbah Saeed Balajid Al Kutbi, Eman Rashid Saif, and Fatima Mousa Al Balushi. During the meeting, the council addressed various agenda items, particularly regarding the organizational and technical arrangements for the upcoming edition of the award. They reviewed updates to eligibility criteria, participation guidelines, and evaluation methods, ensuring alignment with recent developmental approvals that express the award’s commitment to keeping pace with modern trends in volunteer work.
Check on Past Performance
The council also evaluated reports concerning the award’s performance in past editions, highlighting the accomplishments in attracting individual and organizational volunteers from across the UAE. The dedication of various committees in strengthening the award’s reputation was highly praised. The Board of Trustees reiterated that the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work, under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, serves as a leading platform for recognizing and appreciating volunteer efforts while promoting a humanitarian giving culture.
Innovations in Future Editions
Looking forward, the upcoming cycle will introduce innovative approaches to encourage and honor a wider range of individual and institutional volunteers. Emphasis will be placed on leveraging youth creativity and energy towards community service, fostering an environment that inspires initiative and innovation in volunteerism. The council announced plans to launch a campaign aimed at informing the community about the different categories of the award, participation criteria, and submission requirements in preparation for the official application opening.
Partnerships and Future Aspirations
As the meeting concluded, the Board of Trustees expressed gratitude for the efforts made thus far, commending the achievements that have bolstered the award’s presence and responsibilities in contributing to the enhancement of volunteerism values. The council affirmed that the upcoming phase would see increased collaboration and partnerships with various institutions and volunteer organizations to achieve the award’s objectives and expand participation to encompass new models of humanitarian and community contributions. Additionally, they directed that the final arrangements for the new edition be completed, paving the way for an official announcement in the near future—signaling the start of a new era in organized institutional work for the award.