Honours for young volunteers excelling in 2013

Abu Dhabi, UAE, September, 14, 2013:  Some of the UAE's most dedicated young volunteers were honored today at a recognition ceremony held by the Emirates Foundation for Youth Development's Takatof Program for Social Volunteering.

More than 350 male and female Takatof volunteers along with the Foundation's work team and some of the nation's pre-eminent volunteering and community service leaders were present at the recognition ceremony held at the Ferrari World, Abu Dhabi. The event honored volunteers from across the country who took part in the Takatof Ramadan project 2013 and Takatof International Volunteering program.

keynote speaker at the ceremony, Lt. Colonel Dr Salah Obaid Al Ghul, Cultural Director at the Secretariat-General of the Office of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior spoke about his personal experiences and highlighted the important role volunteering had in building an individual's personality, aspirations and helping them realize the significance of personal hopes and ambitions.

Lt. Colonel Dr Salah Obaid Al Ghul's participation comes in the framework of “Takatof” Youth Mentoring Program which is a new initiative aimed at encouraging and motivating Emirati youth through the shared knowledge and experience of senior community mentors, who have made positive contributions to UAE society.

By connecting UAE youth to positive role models, the program creates a proactive platform for youth to be engaged and in supporting the community. It promotes a lifestyle where community service is the norm, while simultaneously providing opportunities for senior members of society to give back to the public.

Maytha Al Habsi, Chief Program Officer at Emirates Foundation for Youth Development said;” I'd like to take this opportunity to thank you, our volunteers who have generously dedicated time to give back to society this year. Your contribution to organizing and running the Takatof program has added to the development of the UAE and the betterment of its people”.

Ms Al Habsi added, “Along the way, through the people you have met and the time and compassion given, you have had the opportunity to explore yourselves, grow in confidence and develop your communication and management abilities- skills, which will enhance your capacity to fulfill your individual expectations both personally and in your career”.

Saeed Abdullah Al Amri, Takatof Volunteer said, “volunteering gives the Takatof members the opportunity to learn new skills, particularly in communication, organizing and managing this volunteer program. The recognition we received today was significant and appreciative, it was a great push for us, which motivated us to pursue our voluntary work and contribute more to our community.”