Sharjah offers a Global Paradigm for human development

Sharjah: Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, welcomed a distinguished delegation of female diplomats to the United Arab Emirates, in a gathering held at Al Bade’a Palace, organised by the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah. The gathering sought to enrich cross-cultural dialogue, fortify international diplomatic ties, and present Sharjah’s pioneering model in empowering women and cultivating a sustainable, human-centric social ecosystem.

Sheikha Jawaher shared her journey in fostering holistic development that supports Sharjah’s social advancement. She established the Sharjah Girls’ Club as a refuge for women and children, launched campaigns and organisations to bolster social cohesion, and expanded into global philanthropic efforts. Her milestones reflect a profound humanitarian philosophy, asserting that true empowerment starts with the provision of dignified, creating safe environments that enable individuals, particularly women, to fully contribute to societal progress.

“In Sharjah, we do not follow trends, rather we create ones that are aligned with our beliefs and values. For us, culture is not a rhetorical motto, but a tangible practice embodied in our children and youth”, said Sheikha Jawaher.

“What began as a humble space for women and children evolved into a comprehensive network of organisations shaping profound messages of empowerment and national identity. We live in an era of swift knowledge and our children deserve guidance with inspirational reflection, curiosity, and the ability to perceive knowledge from myriad sources.”

Sheikha Jawaher also underscored the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, in highlighting the culture and Emirati identity through documenting scenes from the history. Beyond traditional documentation methods, His Highness pursued visual storytelling, as exemplified by the historical film “Khorfakkan”, a cinematic endeavour produced under his direct supervision to preserve historical authenticity untainted by dramatic embellishment. This initiative, among others, ensures future generations understand the sacrifices of their ancestors and the foundations of the nation they inherit.

The attending ambassadors expressed profound admiration for Her Highness and the model of humane leadership she represents, one that places human dignity at the heart of governance. They praised Sharjah’s bold cultural identity and the emirate’s transformative approach to community development.

Present in the event were Sajeda Shawa, Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA); Valentina Bernasconi, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Mission in the UAE; and ambassadors of Ireland, the Republic of Malta, Latvia, Estonia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Slovenia, and the Republic of Cyprus. Also present were Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Business Women Council; Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director General of Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Creating Leaders and Innovators; and a number of directors of organisations chaired by Her Highness.