On the occasion of the Emirati Children’s Day, Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, in cooperation with Al Jalila Foundation, hosted a number of young patients of the Foundation’s “Farah” program and their families for a day of arts and culture with the aim to spread happiness to sick children.

The 17 children, ages 6 to 16, participated in art workshops including music, ceramics, drawing, fashion design and theatre. The children enjoyed learning technical skills and had the opportunity to retain their artistic pieces, along with enjoying some quality family time at the centre dedicated to nurturing children’s creativity.

The children’s centre believes that art is one of the most important means in the child’s therapeutic journey supporting them psychologically and enhancing their positive energy and confidence; art also has the power to distract them from their suffering by focusing on their artistic talents and abilities.

Farah, Al Jalila Foundation’s paediatric program in Dubai, is dedicated to saving young patients’ lives by providing medical treatment, funding research and spreading hope to sick children and their families.

Through Farah, Al Jalila Foundation is transforming children’s lives in the UAE; the humanitarian program also brings the community together to raise funds through community-based campaigns and encourages donations from the wider society. All funds raised are invested in vital treatment and research of paediatric medical conditions. The program helps to alleviate the financial burden on families with sick children allowing them to focus on the treatment plan and recovery.

Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children contributes to all community initiatives that serve children in the UAE. It also provides artistic activities for orphans and sick children, in order to give every child in the community an opportunity to discover his/her talents and become the best versions of themselves and confident citizens of the world.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, announced it raised AED 1 million for breast cancer research and treatment during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the international health campaign held every October to increase awareness of the disease and raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. The events across the UAE drew thousands of people and families including many breast cancer fighters and survivors proving that the community is steadfast in its support for the cause.

It is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer, making it the most common cancer among women. According to studies it is now believed that in the UAE the average age of diagnosis is 20 years younger than elsewhere in the world. The high prevalence of breast cancer in the UAE reinforces the critical need for medical research and improved treatment to combat the disease and ultimately, save lives.

During the month of October Al Jalila Foundation led a month-long community campaign #PINKtober bringing together over 120 partners who hosted pink themed activities and events across the UAE; highlights included a pink Abra parade on Dubai Canal; 11 public sports events; 49 school carnivals; and a number of public activations across the country. Sports events included pink runs, swims, walks, yoga, scuba diving, ballet and golf tournaments with proceeds dedicated to breast cancer research and treatment.

Government and corporates organised employee wellness days which included talks by medical practitioners and survivors. Topics covered the importance of early detection, how to conduct self-examinations and the symptoms of breast cancer. Breast cancer survivors shared their personal stories of courage, hope and triumph reinforcing that the disease can be beaten.

Sulaiman Baharoun, Director of Partnerships & Sustainability of Al Jalila Foundation: “Once again we have received overwhelming support from the community to help raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research during the month of October. It is heartening to witness the philanthropic spirit that takes over during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and our aim is to continue this beyond October, 365 days a year, to ensure that we do not lose sight of our mission to fight the disease.”

The month concluded with the annual Brest Friends gathering bringing together 80 women who have been personally touched by breast cancer. The inspiring event celebrated life and survivorship with the reminder that the disease can be overcome.

Dr Houriya Kazim, President and Founder of Brest Friends, commented: “We have all been affected by breast cancer in some way and it is important to bring the community together to raise awareness and give hope that the disease can be beaten. As we move away from October, I would like to remind everyone that breast cancer awareness should not be limited to one month and call on the community to keep the message alive all-year round.”

Breast cancer is one of the many healthcare programs that Al Jalila Foundation leads in its mission to advance medical treatment and research. Since inception, Al Jalila Foundation has invested approximately AED 5 million to fund nine breast cancer research studies and provide quality medical care and treatment to 33 patients in the UAE.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, announced that Emirati journalists, Nahid Al Naqbi and Iman Ben Chaibah, have successfully completed the Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Journalism (RCJF) Fellowship Program and graduated in the presence of former US First Lady Rosalynn Carter at the annual fellows meeting held in Atlanta recently. The program is the first mental health fellowship program for journalists in the Middle East, launched in the UAE in 2016 by Al Jalila Foundation.

For nearly two decades, the Center has awarded one-year fellowships to 200 journalists to connect them with resources and experts to increase the quality and accuracy of mental health reporting around the world. The program is currently in the United States, Colombia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar and was previously in New Zealand, South Africa, and Romania.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Journalists have immense power to inform, educate and influence society. Their support is essential to raise awareness and create a dialogue about mental health in the region. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that people with mental illnesses are not marginalized and that they receive the required support to live happy productive lives. We are very proud of the dedication of our fellows to spread President and Mrs Carter’s message to the UAE paving the way for a national conversation to overcome the cycle of stigma.”

“These fellows can reshape how media in the Middle East covers one of the most significant, misunderstood public health problems. Like the fellows before them, they will have the opportunity to impact their colleagues and newsrooms, and become the point person in their field on mental health issues.” said former US First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

Nahid Al Naqbi, Deputy Head of Editorial Content Support, Al Bayan Newspaper, explored why the treatment of mental illnesses remains shrouded in fear and misconception in the UAE and how to reduce mental health stigma. Nahid authored several mental health articles in the UAE’s most widely read Arabic newspaper and initiated a social media campaign, #ShareYourExperience, as a safe space for people suffering to share their stories and realise that they are supported. “The UAE is forging the path for mental health awareness in the region and I am honoured to be placed at the frontline of this national conversation.”

Iman Ben Chaibah, CEO of Sail Publishing and Editor-in-Chief of Sail Magazine, studied mental health issues among UAE youth and how to support people who suffer from mental illnesses. Iman and her team at Sail Magazine published a number of articles focusing on potential causes that lead to higher mental health volatility, including academic anxiety and social perceptions which resonates with so many today. “I am grateful for this unique opportunity that enabled me to connect with pioneers in mental health journalism giving me invaluable knowledge to continue to support our youth.”

The Carter Center leadership team commended the UAE Fellows’ efforts citing their admiration for the “groundbreaking work done in the UAE”.

Since the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism were established in 1996, fellows have produced more than 1500 stories, documentaries, books, and other works during and after their fellowship year. Their projects have garnered Emmy Awards, nominations for the Pulitzer Prize, and other awards.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, marks Emirati Women’s Day by reaffirming its commitment to women in science. To date, Al Jalila Foundation has invested AED 9 million to empower Emirati women pursuing careers in medicine and scientific research.

The Year of Zayed commemorates 100 years since the birth of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, whose timeless legacy and noble values continue to inspire generations. Sheikh Zayed believed that investing in people’s welfare, knowledge and capabilities would produce the highest dividends, and his investments in healthcare and education transformed the country and its quality of life. Sheikh Zayed was a strong advocate for women’s rights. He believed that “the woman is half of the society” and should be empowered, respected and developed to contribute equally to the country’s success.

The goal of Emirati Women’s Day is to highlight the accomplishments of women and honour them for their contributions to the development and advancement of the nation. In recognition of these remarkable efforts, this year’s Emirati Women’s Day will be held under the theme ‘Women on the Course of Zayed’.

In its efforts to be a leader in medical innovation, Al Jalila Foundation invests in the next generation of doctors by offering medical scholarships to Emirati students and research grants to UAE-based scientists. Since 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has awarded 59 medical scholarships of which 65% were to Emirati women pursuing careers in medicine and health sciences. In addition, 7 Emirati women pioneering important research for the region’s most pressing health issues are recipients of Al Jalila Foundation research and fellowship grants.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are thrilled to see so many Emirati women seizing the opportunity to take on leading roles in science. Today, with the support and encouragement of our leaders, Emirati women are already playing a prominent role across all industries and professions in the UAE. These women have proven to be strong, hardworking and resilient leaders with a goal to improve the lives of their fellow citizens. On this Emirati Women’s Day, we celebrate women’s contributions to the development and advancement of the UAE and know that by empowering our women, we empower our nation. It is with great pride and gratitude to our nation’s leaders, donors and the community that we mark this Emirati Women’s Day, in the Year of Zayed, and pledge our continued commitment to women in science.”

Dalia Al Nuaimi, first graduate of Al Jalila Foundation scholarship for the Master of Medical Sciences in Global Health Delivery (MMSc-GHD) at Harvard Medical School, said: “Studying at HMS has added considerable depth to my career path and opened many doors for me as an Emirati researcher. I am proud to draw attention to the incredible work the UAE does in leading aid distribution globally. None of this would have been possible without the invaluable support and guidance of Al Jalila Foundation, and the scholarship, which allowed me to follow my dream of studying at Harvard Medical School.”

Emirati women researchers are pioneering ground breaking research, such as Dr Habiba Al Safar, recipient of two (2015, 2017) Al Jalila Foundation research grants to study cancer and diabetes. Dr Habiba has received numerous accolades for her contributions to science: UAE First Pioneer Medal for Genomics Research (2014); Emirates International Award of Genetic Diseases Prevention in the category of Best Scientific Researcher in the field of Genetic Diseases Prevention (2014); and has ranked number 52 among the most powerful women in the Arab world by ArabianBusiness.com (2015).

Al Jalila Foundation has supported 44 Emirati women to date through postgraduate medical scholarships, research and fellowship grants, with an investment of over AED 9 million.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, announced that it has received a donation of AED 3 million from Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to support its A’awen (treatment in Arabic) program which helps patients in need.

Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has supported 467 patients from 36 nationalities, including 190 children, and invested AED 34 million to provide relief to patients who have suffered a number of chronic illnesses and life-threatening conditions. The treatment costs for patients, newborn to 90 years of age, have ranged from to AED 20,000 to AED 250,000 per individual.

DIB’s support echoes the values of the Year of Zayed as announced by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to foster and strengthen a sense of social responsibility across the public and private sectors, in addition to developing the spirit of volunteering and service to the nation.

Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees, Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are extremely grateful to Dubai Islamic Bank for its longstanding support to our A’awen program that offers hope and healing to patients in need of medical care. It is a privilege to work with distinguished banking and financial institutions like DIB to help deliver the UAE’s vision to be one of the happiest nations in the world.”

In its efforts to be a leader in medical innovation, Al Jalila Foundation works closely with healthcare partners to develop special treatment programs that meet the needs of patients. It also invests in local medical research to discover better treatment options for future generations.

His Excellency Abdul Razzaq Al Abdullah, Head of Community Services Department, Dubai Islamic Bank, said: “Dubai Islamic Bank is a long term supporter of Al Jalila Foundation and we are honoured to be able to support the organisation’s noble mission to make a difference in people’s lives. Our support mirrors the values and teachings of Sheikh Zayed and we are honoured to continue his legacy of compassion and service to humanity.”

Al Jalila Foundation is a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education, treatment and research. It was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE, to position the UAE at the forefront of medical innovation.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic healthcare organisation dedicated to transforming lives, announced the successful completion of the Ramadan campaign ‘basma’, smile in Arabic, launched in partnership with a number of hospitality, leisure and retail outlets across the UAE. The month-long charity campaign was a great success thanks to the support of over 40 partners who engaged their customers raising AED 1 million to provide life-saving treatment and medical care to children in need.

In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, “to create hope, life and happiness for everyone in the UAE”, Al Jalila Foundation believes that health is the cornerstone to happiness and every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, dream and realise their potential.

Al Jalila Foundation works closely with healthcare partners to develop special treatment programs that meet the needs of patients who are unable to afford quality treatment. Farah, happiness in Arabic, is the Foundation’s paediatric treatment program which has helped 190 children in the UAE: from life-saving heart surgeries to treatment of childhood cancers, cochlear implants and prosthetic limbs, all have been given a fresh start in life after receiving special care by some of the best medical providers and physicians in the region.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Ramadan is a time of giving and there can be no greater cause than to support and improve the health and well-being of children. Through our healthcare programs, Al Jalila Foundation sponsors some of the best medical treatment in the world and invests in vital research to eliminate illnesses in the future. Our partners and donors continue to inspire us with their generosity and, every day, we witness the culture of giving that is embedded in the nation’s DNA instilled by the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed. We are grateful to the business community for lending their support to Al Jalila Foundation and our mission to improve the lives of young patients.”

Throughout the month of Ramadan, Al Jalila Foundation also ran a digital campaign in partnership with Al Bayan and Emarat Al Youm featuring 5-year old Bushra who underwent open heart surgery to correct a life-threatening congenital heart defect. The video garnered great support in SMS donations from the community which will ensure that more children like Bushra receive the treatment they need.

Ramadan is about connecting people; Al Jalila Foundation praised the basma partners for their creative fundraising initiatives and admirable efforts in engaging their patrons during the month of giving.

The ‘Magical Wishing Well’ at Dubai Festival City Mall saw 7,000 messages sent around the world, including 5 marriage proposals! Haji Sahab distributed thousands of Iftar packs at labour camps in Dubai; Al Madani Group dedicated a portion of sales proceeds across 9 dining and shopping outlets to basma; 15 Marriott hotels came together for ‘Ramadan with Marriott’; a number of hospitality partners offered Iftar and Suhour proceeds including an exclusive event ‘Majlis by Gossip’ dedicated to help children in need; and for the sweet-toothed Shakespeare and Co. donated a portion of patisserie sales throughout the month.

The basma campaign was not just about food; there were a number of beauty inspired offers from Kiehl’s, L’Occitane en Provence, NStyle Beauty Lounge, and Urban Male Lounge. At Splash ‘n’ Party children were able to ‘Dunk the Mermaid’ to donate AED 20 to Al Jalila Foundation and, for the thrill-seekers, XDubai’s #DareToDonate campaign sent donors Ziplining through the Dubai night skyline with 100% of proceeds donated to basma to spread hope and healing to sick children.

In addition to the basma campaign, Al Jalila Foundation also received generous donations from a number of organisations including Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank; Atlantis, The Palm; Commercial Bank of Dubai; The Indian High School, Dubai; and Kaloti amongst others.

Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has supported 467 patients from 36 nationalities, and invested AED 34 million to provide relief to patients who have suffered a number of life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, cancer and other chronic illnesses. The treatment costs have ranged from to AED 20,000 to AED 250,000 per individual.

As a non-profit organisation Al Jalila Foundation relies on the support of its partners and 100% of donations are invested directly into healthcare programs to benefit those in need.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education, treatment and research, announced today that it has received AED 100,000 donation from Dhamani for the proceeds from the DPINK collection created with the most sought after pink diamonds in the world, Argyle pinks. The initiative to mark the ‘Year of Giving’ saw Dhamani pledge 5% of the entire year’s sales of the exclusive pink diamonds to Al Jalila Foundation to support breast cancer treatment and research.

It is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer, making it the most common cancer among women. In the UAE the average age of diagnosis of breast cancer is 10 years younger than elsewhere in the world. The high prevalence of breast cancer reinforces the critical need for medical research and improved treatment to combat the disease and ultimately, save lives.

Sulaiman Baharoun, Director of Partnerships & Sustainability of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Dhamani is a long term supporter of our ‘Brest Friends’ program which provides treatment for breast cancer patients and funds breast cancer research in the UAE. We count on the support of our partners to advance medical research to improve patients’ lives and we are most grateful to Amit Dhamani and Dhamani Family for their generosity and dedication to a cause that affects millions of women around the world.”

Amit Dhamani, CEO and Managing Director of Dhamani, said: “We are honoured to work with the Al Jalila Foundation for this innovative initiative to mark the UAE Year of Giving. Philanthropy is as important to the Dhamani family as it is for the leadership of the UAE, and we are always delighted to support. This is a tremendous opportunity to play a vital role in the UAE’s humanitarian approach.”

The Dhamani brand has been adding a brilliant sparkle to the lives of its clients for more than forty-five years, offering the finest quality jewels set in world-class designs. The premium brand satiates the appetite of contemporary and luxury-loving connoisseurs from across the globe through intricately crafted jewellery.

Since inception, Al Jalila Foundation has invested more than AED 5 million to fund 7 breast cancer research studies and provide quality medical care and treatment to 26 patients in the UAE as part of its efforts to improve lives through medical innovation.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, celebrates Zayed Humanitarian Day by recognising the contributions from the community to support life-saving treatment to children in the UAE.

The Year of Zayed commemorates 100 years since the birth of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, whose timeless legacy and values of compassion, giving and volunteerism are honoured and continuously celebrated. Al Jalila Foundation, through its A’awen program, echoes the vision of Sheikh Zayed by providing support, medical treatment and care to patients in the UAE who are unable to afford quality treatment. Since its inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has supported 467 patients from 36 nationalities, including 190 children, and invested AED 34 million to provide relief to patients who have suffered a number of chronic illnesses and life-threatening conditions. The treatment costs for patients, newborn to 90 years of age, have ranged from to AED 20,000 to AED 250,000 per individual.

In its efforts to be a leader in medical innovation, Al Jalila Foundation works closely with healthcare partners to develop special treatment programs that meet the needs of patients. Farah, happiness in Arabic, is the Foundation’s paediatric treatment program which has helped many young patients: from life-saving heart surgeries to cochlear implant or prosthetic limbs, all have be given a fresh start in life after receiving special care by some of the best medical providers and physicians in the region.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “In line with Sheikh Zayed’s vision of prosperity for the nation, at Al Jalila Foundation we believe that every child should have the chance of a happy, healthy life. Through our healthcare programs we sponsor some of the best medical treatment in the world and invest in vital research to eliminate illnesses in the future. It is with great pride and gratitude to our nation’s leaders, donors and the community that we mark this Zayed Humanitarian Day, in the Year of Zayed, and pledge our continued commitment to transform lives in the UAE.”

Al Jalila Foundation relies solely on the funding of donors and since inception has maintained strong partnerships who support Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and vision. Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) is one of the distinguished financial institutions and longstanding partners who has generously dedicated funds to the A’awen program to offer hope and healing to patients in need.

Abdul Razzaq Al Abdullah, Head of Community Services Department, Dubai Islamic Bank said: “Dubai Islamic Bank is a long term supporter of Al Jalila Foundation and we are honored to be able to support the Foundation’s mission to make a difference in people’s lives. Our contributions demonstrate the pioneering role of Dubai Islamic Bank to serve the UAE community to lead happier lives.”

DIB’s support echoes the values of the Year of Zayed as announced by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to foster and strengthen a sense of social responsibility across the public and private sectors, in addition to developing the spirit of volunteering and service to the nation.

A number of philanthropists and corporates have supported Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen program namely Easa Al Gurg Charity Foundation; Khalifa Juma Al Nabooda; Dubai Islamic Bank; Sharjah Islamic Bank; Emirates Islamic Bank; Commercial Bank of Dubai; among others.

Al Jalila Foundation has launched the first Glamour for Good initiative bringing together four ladies – Fina, Marwa, Sarah and Sharifa – with various health conditions for a full day of luxurious pampering and red carpet treatment at Palazzo Versace Dubai. The initiative complements the medical treatment program, A’awen, to spread hope and happiness to patients who have been affected by chronic illness and other serious medical conditions.

Glamour for Good was supported by Palazzo Versace Dubai who provided a 3 bedroom luxury residence for the day which began with a visit to The SPA where the ladies were treated to massages and facials followed by lunch at the acclaimed Vanitas restaurant. The afternoon was dedicated to hair styling, manicures and pedicures provided by Sisters Beauty Lounge. Makeup artist Laure Sejean gave the ladies a full makeover with beauty products sponsored by Kat Von D, Marc Jacobs and Caudalie. The ladies were styled by Marianne Azhari from True Reflections and dressed in beautiful garments sponsored by So Chic, Alanoud Badr, Nadine Chammas, Nadia Saleh and abayas by NM Boutique. The entire day was documented and each lady was treated to a special photoshoot by the talented Uschi Irani.

Ayesha Shahdad, head of A’awen treatment program at Al Jalila Foundation, said: “With the support of our partners and donors we are able to offer life transforming treatment to patients. Our patients come from all walks of life, nationalities and backgrounds and have gone through some traumatic experiences due to their medical conditions and, all too often, life’s indulgences have been pushed aside. Through the Glamour for Good initiative we are thrilled to give these courageous women the extra special care and attention they deserve, offering them a distraction from their daily cares and the chance to enjoy a day of luxurious pampering.”

The ladies concluded the day enjoying afternoon tea in Mosaico in the opulent hotel lobby lounge. All were styled from head to toe in couture and wearing exquisite jewellery on loan from Damas with a total value of AED 300,000. As an extra special treat, Damas surprised each of the ladies with a gift of the Al Jalila Foundation ‘Key of Hope’, a beautiful limited edition pendant created exclusively for Al Jalila Foundation.

It was a day of friendship, happiness and renewed hope. Sharifa, who was bed ridden for several years before her knee replacement exclaimed “My life has changed with the support from Al Jalila Foundation; I am living my life without limitation now and I really enjoyed this special day.” Individually the ladies expressed their appreciation for the beautiful day of pampering even remarking: “I felt like a princess for a day.” said Fina who has suffered from debilitating rheumatism most of her life. “I was overwhelmed with the love and support from everyone” said Marwa who had undergone treatment after a recent heart transplant. Sarah, a breast cancer survivor, remarked “The very generous gift we received from Damas at the end of the day was a true symbol of hope and positivity for the future.”

Through Glamour for Good, Al Jalila Foundation hopes to give patients the opportunity to tell their stories, to be celebrated for their courage in the face of adversity and the chance to inspire others going through health challenges. Al Jalila Foundation, through its A’awen program, has supported over 432 patients including 125 women affected by a number of chronic illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and other serious health conditions.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, today celebrated Brest Friends 13th anniversary acknowledging the impact the home-grown program has contributed to breast cancer awareness in the UAE.

It is estimated that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and it is the second leading cause of death among women. The high prevalence of the disease reinforces the critical need for medical research and improved treatment to save lives. Al Jalila Foundation and Brest Friends work together to raise awareness, fund treatment and invest in pioneering research.

Brest Friends was established in 2005 as the first breast cancer support group in the UAE, by Dr Houriya Kazim, the UAE’s first female surgeon, with the mission to save lives by increasing awareness of breast cancer and providing a platform where patients and survivors can learn, share experiences and offer moral and emotional support to each other which has proven to be instrumental in a woman’s healing process.

Dr Houriya Kazim, President and Founder of Brest Friends, commented: “We are delighted to achieve this milestone by honouring survivors and reflecting on the impact Brest Friends has made to women in the UAE. Breast cancer awareness has improved dramatically since 2005, thanks to the support of strong advocates and the community who promote and run campaigns highlighting the importance of early detection throughout the year. We would like to mark this anniversary by amplifying a message of hope that the disease can be beaten – there is life after cancer – and through ground-breaking research we aim to develop tangible results to transform the future health of women.”

Brest Friends partnered with Al Jalila Foundation in 2015 expanding its capabilities to facilitate medical treatment and fund locally-based research into the epidemiology of breast cancer. The 3-year partnership has already yielded positive results with more than AED 5 million invested in life-saving treatment to support 26 women and fund seven breast cancer research studies in the UAE.

Her Excellency Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors and Member of the Board of Trustees of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are proud to celebrate this milestone with Brest Friends who, over the last thirteen years, has established itself as a beacon of hope for breast cancer patients in the UAE. Through our partnership, and with the help of our donors, we have been able to provide quality medical care and support to women with breast cancer. In line with our mission to advance medical research in the region we have funded a number of pioneering projects which are underway and promise to yield positive outcomes that will offer hope and healing to patients in the future.”

The anniversary event was generously sponsored by Sesame restaurant in Sunset Mall and attended by more than 60 Brest Friends members, patients and survivors, commemorating the positive impact Brest Friends has had on women in the UAE.