Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Recognises Ahmed Zainoun As Leading Arab Hope Maker For Humanitarian Work

Ahmed Zainoun from Morocco was awarded the top prize at the Arab Hope Makers event, receiving AED1 million. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, presented the award. The ceremony also honoured two other finalists, Samar Nadeem from Egypt and Khadija Al-Qorti from Morocco, with equivalent cash prizes. This brought the total prize value to AED3 million.

The event celebrated individuals making a difference in their communities. Zainoun's initiative focuses on helping children with Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP), a condition that makes them extremely sensitive to ultraviolet light. Known as ‘Children of the Moon,’ these young patients require special care to prevent skin cancer. Zainoun's efforts include raising funds for medications and protective gear for 144 children.

Prev

Next

The Hope Makers initiative is part of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives. It aims to highlight unsung heroes dedicating their time and resources to help others. By sharing their stories through media, it seeks to inspire positive change and community development across the Arab world.

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum remarked on the significance of recognising these selfless individuals: "Hope Makers embody the true meaning of selfless giving, working tirelessly behind the scenes. They are inspiring role models, transforming lives without seeking recognition, leaving an enduring legacy of humanitarianism."

Samar Nadeem founded ‘Zahrat Masr’ shelter in Egypt after helping an elderly woman in need. Her journey began in 2016 when she assisted this woman with basic necessities. After sharing her story online, Samar received overwhelming support and requests for help, leading her to establish a shelter for elderly homeless individuals.

Khadija al-Qorti became known as the ‘Mother of Morocco's Patients’ after losing her husband and sister to cancer. She opened her home to women battling cancer, providing free shelter and support. With donor assistance, she later established the Jannat Association to expand her charitable work.

Celebrating Humanitarian Efforts

The closing ceremony featured performances by artists like Hammoud Al-Khader and RedOne at Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena. Videos showcased finalists' humanitarian work impacting orphans, the sick, and homeless individuals. Two Hope Makers from Tunisia and Mauritania shared their inspiring stories during the event.

Tunisian Karim Arfa constructs bridges using recycled materials after a tragic incident inspired him in 2019. He has built over ten bridges around El Mourouj town for safe passage over rivers. Mauritanian rapper Racine Dia rescues orphaned children through his association dedicated to fighting child abandonment.

A Vision for Positive Change

Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi highlighted that since its inception in 2017, Hope Makers has become a landmark initiative in the Arab world's humanitarian landscape. It encourages positive competition among individuals developing projects addressing community needs while empowering them with hope for future rebuilding.

The fifth edition received over 26,000 nominations within one month alone—demonstrating rich humanitarian spirit across Arab communities capable of creating brighter futures through innovative charitable projects aimed at improving lives significantly.

With inputs from WAM