Abu Dhabi is set to host the Sheikh Fatima bint Mubarak Conference on Societal Intelligence on November 17 and 18. This significant event aims to gather experts and stakeholders to discuss key topics, including digital awareness, family empowerment, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, and converting knowledge into practical initiatives that enhance community cohesion and quality of life. The theme for this year’s conference is “A Cohesive Society Where Everyone Participates.”
Details of the Conference
The Family Development Foundation has announced the details of the conference, which is part of the eighth cycle of the Sheikh Fatima bint Mubarak Programme for Excellence and Societal Intelligence. This was revealed during a press conference held at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi, where the objectives, themes, and programme, including five panel discussions, workshops, and a platform for sharing inspiring experiences, were outlined. The press conference was attended by Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Director General of the Family Development Foundation, Wafa Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Family Development Department, along with various experts and media representatives.
Vision and Goals
Mariam Mohammed Al Rumaithi emphasised that the conference embodies the humanitarian and developmental vision of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, President of the General Women’s Union, Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, known as the “Mother of the Nation”. Sheikha Fatima’s commitment to building human capacity and empowering families is seen as a national mission that recognises that true investment begins with individuals. The conference is designed to open avenues for collaborative societal work, encouraging innovation and outlining practical solutions that foster community engagement.
Exploring Community Intelligence
The conference aims to raise awareness about the concept of societal intelligence, presenting leading experiences and discussing pivotal issues related to awareness building, family empowerment, entrepreneurship, innovation, and community responsibility. These discussions are expected to reinforce the roles of individuals and institutions in addressing community needs and aspirations. Al Rumaithi noted that this initiative supports the wise leadership’s vision, particularly that of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who considers people the core of development and families the foundation of community strength and stability.
A Platform for Impact
The Sheikh Fatima bint Mubarak Programme for Excellence and Societal Intelligence continues to motivate creativity and highlight role models, encouraging initiatives that offer innovative solutions to community needs, while embedding a culture of excellence as a driving force for positive change and social progress. The foundation’s ambitions extend beyond the sessions and workshops; they aim for tangible, positive impacts on the present and future of society through integrated efforts, activated partnerships, and the transformation of knowledge into actionable initiatives that enhance individuals’ and families’ ability to confront challenges and seize opportunities.
Community Potential
Aisha Al Kaabi, Project Manager of the Sheikh Fatima bint Mubarak Programme for Excellence and Societal Intelligence, stressed the importance of developing a comprehensive system to uncover promising community potentials and direct them towards addressing priority issues. She indicated that the next phase requires a shift from individual initiatives to more integrated models of collaboration, built on a deep understanding of community needs and leveraging knowledge and expertise to create new ways to address changes. This approach will enhance the ability of individuals and institutions to proactively respond to challenges and develop flexible and effective solutions that keep pace with rapid transformations and future requirements.
Panel Sessions Overview
During an introductory presentation, Aisha Al Kaabi outlined the conference’s objectives and programme, noting that the five panel discussions will cover topics such as building awareness in the digital age, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, family empowerment, and community responsibility. The conference will also showcase inspiring experiences and facilitate the exchange of expertise, ultimately aiming to develop practical insights and solutions that support social cohesion and improve quality of life.