Revive & Thrive Programme Launched By Al Jalila Foundation And AmCham Dubai To Support Cancer Survivors' Workforce Reintegration

The Al Jalila Foundation, the charitable branch of Dubai Health, has teamed up with AmCham Dubai to introduce the 'Revive & Thrive' programme. This initiative is crafted to assist women in rejoining the workforce after undergoing cancer treatment. Already, nine members from Al Jalila Foundation’s Majlis Al Amal have secured roles in various sectors through this programme.

Majlis Al Amal, translating to Hope Lounge in Arabic, serves as a unique drop-in centre for female cancer patients and survivors. It offers a supportive environment where patients and their families can focus on emotional well-being. The centre is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for these women by providing a safe and nurturing space.

The Revive & Thrive programme tackles a major issue faced by cancer survivors both in the UAE and globally. According to research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 26 to 53 percent of cancer survivors either lose their jobs or leave work during or after treatment. This disruption can lead to financial challenges and hinder career growth.

Women often choose to leave their jobs to focus on health, impacting their financial stability and career paths. The programme offers structured support through training, mentorship, and six-month paid returnships. These returnships help women gradually re-enter the workforce, rebuild confidence, and gain practical experience under mentor guidance.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, stated that Majlis Al Amal was created as a comprehensive support centre for women affected by cancer. He emphasised that healing goes beyond medical treatment to include emotional, social, and professional well-being. "The Revive & Thrive programme represents a natural evolution of our mission," he said.

Cara Nazari, CEO of AmCham Dubai, highlighted the programme's impact: "AmCham Dubai's Revive & Thrive programme... continues to create meaningful impact by supporting women returning to the workforce after a career break." She noted that it connects jobseekers with private sector leaders committed to inclusive growth.

Private Sector Participation

The initiative has garnered participation from prominent organisations such as GE Aerospace, Medtronic, Cigna Healthcare, FedEx, NAS Neuron, and MENA Legal. This demonstrates strong private sector commitment towards supporting cancer survivors' professional reintegration.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni added that placing nine women into meaningful employment showcases the real impact of their engagement programmes. He expressed commitment to transforming lives through collaborative community efforts that enable women to rebuild careers and regain workplace confidence.

Cara Nazari further explained that Revive & Thrive is more than just a programme; it's a movement led by AmCham Dubai's HR Committee. From mentoring sessions and workshops to successful job placements, they are proud to help talented women reignite their professional journeys.

This initiative reflects AmCham Dubai's mission: empowering people through connection, opportunity, and action. By fostering inclusive growth and opportunity within the private sector, Revive & Thrive supports women's return to work after career breaks due to health challenges.

With inputs from WAM