All posts by Carla Duarte

Stories of Hope

dnata drives community development

If you live in the UAE you will certainly know the name dnata and would likely have used their services. What you may not have known is that when you engaged the services or bought products from dnata you were supporting Al Jalila Foundation healthcare programs.

Since 2019 dnata, the leading global air and travel services provider in the Middle East, has initiated and executed some amazing philanthropic activities and fundraising events throughout the year to improve the lives of patients in the UAE.

With breast cancer as the key theme during October dnata Travel jumped at the chance to be a part of our #PINKtober campaign by donating a percentage of all holiday bookings to support breast cancer research and treatment. In order to raise more awareness for the disease they even painted one of the airplane pushback tractors pink to promote regular screening and early detection of breast cancer. Travellers from all over the world who used Dubai International (DXB) airport would have likely seen dnata’s eye-catching pink equipment while waiting for their flight.

In addition to charity activations the travel group has dnata4good, an employee-driven initiative that supports the communities in which they operate. The importance of social accountability and making an impact beyond business goals is key and dnata4good pledges to give back to the communities by supporting charities and community development projects that align with their charitable pillars: Community, Environment and Wellbeing.

Thanks to the continuous support of dnata management and employees the team have raised almost AED 100,000 to support Al Jalila Foundation programs.

Stories of Hope

UAE teachers gain invaluable inclusion skills

Through the Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, Al Jalila Foundation is committed to supporting inclusion in the classroom so that every child of determination can reach their full potential. Since 2014 the Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, in partnership with Zayed University, has been offered to educators across the UAE equipping them with the skills they need to ensure all the children attending their classes will blossom and develop to the greatest of their abilities.

St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah has been sending their teachers to the one-year program since 2018 which has contributed to far greater inclusion of children with all abilities in their classes.

Principal Father Suresh Kumar has noticed a marked improvement in the school, “Through the Al Jalila Foundation Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, the teachers at St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah have been able to adapt their approach to special education within their classrooms. The teachers have been able to better assist in early identification and subsequently suggest and implement strategies to support these children to reach their highest potential. As a result, the school continually progresses towards the goal of being an inclusive learning environment. We are excited to continue our partnership with Al Jalila Foundation and increase our capacity for inclusion.”

Al Jalila Foundation, in partnership with Zayed University, has trained 548 teachers from 163 government and private schools across the seven emirates, to deliver on our commitment to support the happiness and wellbeing of children of determination.

Research Matters, Stories of Hope

Through collaboration we all succeed

At Al Jalila Foundation we know that research has the power to advance medical breakthroughs that could save millions of lives and change the fabric of science as we know it. We also know that this goal will not be achieved alone and believe in the power and strength of our partnerships. Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute, an initiative of Al Jalila Foundation, partnered with Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) to advance biomedical research in the UAE.

Al Jalila Foundation provides AED 8 million of funding annually to support MBRU research activities which fosters greater unity among the research community and creates more opportunities for faculty and students to further their education and explore ways to support each other’s research objectives. A number of joint research studies have already been published in prestigious global research papers.

Scientific research is a critical resource for discovering new ways to diagnose and treat diseases affecting mankind. Al Jalila Foundation and MBRU share a commitment to advance discovery on therapies and treatment protocols that will benefit the UAE population. This partnership combines the strengths of our institutions and supports the mission of Dubai Academic Health Corporation to advance health for humanity. It inspires collaborative research and enhances the quality of both entities’ research programs to contribute to the UAE’s thriving medical research ecosystem.

Testament to Dubai’s status as an emerging global hub for scientific research and innovation, Stanford University recognised nine faculty members from MBRU in its latest rankings of the world’s top 2% scientists. Click here to read more.

Press Release

Al Jalila Foundation announces launch of new grant cycle to support cancer research in the UAE

Al Jalila Foundation, a philanthropic healthcare organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, announced the launch of a new cycle of grants to support cancer research in the UAE.

The new cycle, which will award grants to UAE-based scientists, is in line with the vision of the Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC) to advance health for humanity. It also reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading destination in the field of medical education, research and scientific innovation.

Al Jalila Foundation is inviting applications to conduct a two-year cancer research study to address local and regional needs. The new grant cycle will provide up to AED300,000 to support basic science, translational and clinical research projects. The grants are available to UAE nationals and residents, provided they conduct the research in the UAE. Applicants should also be holding positions at universities, research or clinical institutions in the UAE.

According to the Foundation, the applications will be assessed through an independent, international peer review process that will be overseen by a scientific advisory committee. The committee will consist of specialised experts in the region, who will work with the international peer review panel, to award research grants to the most deserving scientists.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, Vice President of Administration and Professional Services of MBRU and Acting CEO of  Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Al Jalila Foundation’s latest grant cycle, which is in line with DAHC’s ‘Patient First’ mission, will further support our efforts to advance scientific discovery and promote better health outcomes to improve the wellbeing of cancer patients in the UAE. The Foundation’s investment in medical research reaffirms our commitment to the UAE’s long-term healthcare strategy. By supporting talented scientists, we are investing in the next generation of innovators in health sciences and paving the way for medical breakthroughs to transform lives.”

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for one in six deaths. The cancer burden continues to grow globally, exerting tremendous physical, emotional and financial strain on individuals, families, communities and health systems.  Cancer research – to discover, detect, prevent, and treat the disease – is integral to progress in understanding the fundamental biology of cancer and new prevention measures, tests and treatments.

Since 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has awarded more than AED28 million in research grants in a number of areas including cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Applications are open until 16 January, 2023. Scientists interested to apply for a research grant can visit Al Jalila Foundation’s website:  https://www.aljalilafoundation.ae/what-we-do/research/seed-grants/

Stories of Hope

Cancer survivor pays tribute to ‘The Pink Couch’ at Majlis Al Amal

Pier Shilliday found small lumps under her arm and on her bikini line during her husband’s 40th birthday celebrations and was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma on 30 October 2021.

On 16 November 2021 Pier started her treatment which included chemotherapy and radiation. Pier says “chemo was tough” but her biggest concern was explaining the diagnosis to her 5-year-old daughter and how she would react when “mummy lost her hair”. Children are resilient and Pier and her husband tried to include April as much as possible in the most age-appropriate way to make it less “scary” – when her husband shaved her hair, April was part of it.

Pier’s positivity got her through the tough days and as life slowed down so that she could focus on her health, Pier pursued art. It was a fun activity to do with her daughter and her creativity flourished. Pier found solace in art and it was the beginning of her journey as an artist.

When Pier visited Majlis Al Amal, she did so with some hesitation. “I am in tears thinking about that first day I walked into Majlis Al Amal, how I felt its immediate calmness, and the warm welcome I received from everyone who was there that day. Since then, it has become my sanctuary, where I’ve met wonderful, positive women, and attended various activities, some of which I would never have contemplated before being diagnosed. I even encapsulated its spirit by doing a painting of the pink couch, where I have seen women consoling each other, inspiring each other, organising activities and outings with each other, even having meals or naps! Majlis Al Amal is truly a place to escape and be with women who have been through a similar journey to yourself. And that is a big comfort.”

Pier is the artist behind ‘The Pink Couch’ a beautiful tribute to Majlis Al Amal and the community of cancer warriors that have been a shoulder to lean on when life with cancer gets too much to bear. Pier recently had the honour of sharing her art notebook with Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), during her visit to the cancer drop-in centre. “It was an unforgettable experience, I never imagined that my cancer journey would lead me to this incredible moment” Pier exclaimed.

If you are a cancer patient or survivor, or know anyone that is, please join the Majlis Al Amal Facebook Group to connect with an inspiring community of hope.

Stories of Hope

Swaba receives the precious gift of hearing

Imagine for a minute that you could not hear the birds singing, the leaves fluttering in the wind, and the laughter of children playing in the park. Imagine a world without sound. Now, imagine a parent who has just been told that their child cannot hear. Despair turns to hope when they learn of the cochlear implant – a surgically implanted electronic device that restores hearing.  However, for many families, the cochlear implant is out of reach as it is an expensive procedure that requires extensive post-operative speech therapy and rehabilitation.

At the heart of our A’awen program is our mission to help improve the lives of patients. With A’awen, there is always hope.

When Swaba was born, her parents were devastated to learn that she could not hear. “It was heartbreaking. The doctor confirmed that she could not hear anything and we were told that her development would be slow,” says Raseena, Swaba’s mother.

Early intervention improves speech and hearing outcomes. It is crucial that children with hearing loss are treated as early as possible. Swaba was eligible for a cochlear implant with all the costs covered by Al Jalila Foundation.

Since the cochlear implant surgery and the activation 3-year-old Swaba has become very inquisitive;  she is imitating sounds and can already say “mama” and “baba” much to her parents’ delight. When Swaba heard for the first time her parents were overwhelmed with joy, and so much hope! In that moment, the sweet little girl’s life was changed forever. Swaba received a precious, life-transforming gift: the gift of hearing. She still has a long road to recovery but the path ahead is bright and full of hope.

Click here to watch Swaba’s video.

Newsletters

Join us to create a better future for every child

November 2022

On the occasion of World Children’s Day we are reminded to work together to create a better future for every child. On this day we stand with every child suffering from a chronic illness, devastating diagnosis or debilitating disorder. We pay tribute to every parent and the sacrifices they made to protect, nurture and do whatever it takes to give their child every opportunity to live a healthy, happy life – despite all odds. At Al Jalila Foundation we believe that every child deserves to grow up strong, happy and healthy to reach their dreams.

Stories of Hope

Aadvika is energetic and happy once again

4-year-old Aadvika’s parents became concerned when they saw her behaviour change. Their once bubbly and energetic girl no longer enjoyed socialising or playing with other children, she was tired all the time and did not have any energy.

Upon further medical examinations her parents were devasted to hear that their first child had been diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

In addition to the shocking news Aadvika’s parents were overwhelmed with the cost of the life-saving treatment desperately needed for their daughter. Their plight for help came to the attention of Al Jalila Foundation and a special campaign was placed on the patient crowdfunding platform A’awen Giving. Much to the family’s delight the community were there to support young Aadvika with the full amount needed for her treatment was raised in a short time.

Aadvika’s parents were overjoyed, “It was heart-breaking to see Aadvika suffer. We felt so helpless. Now we feel so supported from our amazing community who are always by our side and have helped us get our precious daughter the treatment she needs. Now Aadvika is once again our athletic and social girl who loves to play with her little sister.”

Al Jalila Foundation held a Superhero Day as part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month for the children who received support through the A’awen patient treatment program. We were delighted to see Aadvika so eager to take part in all the fun activities throughout the day. She truly has blossomed into a talkative, active and happy young girl.

Press Release

Brest Friends celebrate 17 years of giving hope to breast cancer patients in the UAE

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, celebrated the 17th anniversary of longstanding partner Brest Friends 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. Studies show that when breast cancer is detected and treated early the survival rate is 99 percent. Al Jalila Foundation and Brest Friends work together to raise awareness on early detection.

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. It is thanks to Dr Houriya’s dedication and foresight, almost 20 years ago, to create a special movement that has impacted thousands of women and inspired the community. What was once a taboo subject has transformed into a national conversation promoting breast cancer awareness nation-wide.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Brest Friends is an organisation that is a shining example of what can be accomplished when you nourish one small seed with courage, dedication and passion. Today we see the astonishing growth of that seed as the movement against breast cancer has never been bigger with a wider community reach. It is undeniable that the incredible work of Brest Friends over the last 17 years has saved more lives than we will ever know. We commend Dr Houriya, the Brest Friends Board and the community of breast cancer warriors on their dedication and we could not be more proud of the great impact their work has had on the lives of women.”

Dr Houriya Kazim, Founder and President of Brest Friends, said: “When I started Brest Friends, the only qualifications that I brought to the task were the experience of treating breast cancer patients and the desire to help my patients survive the experience. But here we are – 17 years of giving our members a nurturing, safe and fun environment where women are supported as they go through the difficult breast cancer journey. Cancer is an individual experience; each person has a unique path and we are in awe of all the incredible women who have been a part of the Brest Friends family who have met challenges with such a strength of spirit and grace. It takes my breath away. These women are testament that breast cancer can be beaten and that there is life after cancer.”

The anniversary luncheon was held at Rhodes W1 at Grosvenor House, sponsored by Marriott Business Council, commemorating the positive impact Brest Friends has had on women in the UAE. It was a celebration of 17 years of friendships and an opportunity to honour the brave women who have faced breast cancer with incredible courage, grace and hope.

Pam Wilby, Chair of the UAE Marriott Business Council, said: “My team and I were thrilled to once again host the Brest Friends anniversary and share in the celebrations of such a joyous occasion – it’s so inspiring to be among so many incredible women and to be able to celebrate each of them and their triumphant journey.”

Pam added: “Since 2015 the Marriott Business Council has been supporting Al Jalila Foundation programs through a number of fundraising activities. Our Marriott associates work hard to raise funds throughout the year to support Al Jalila Foundation healthcare programs including the partnership with Brest Friends. I am very proud that that we now have 69 Marriott hotels and 16,000 Marriott associates working passionately to make a difference to the lives of women in the UAE.”

To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Al Jalila Foundation launched the 8th edition of #PINKtober in partnership with Brest Friends. The month-long community campaign unites hundreds of partners – ranging from schools, corporates, hospitality, retailers and government entities – who host pink-themed events across the UAE to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and patient treatment.

Press Release, Uncategorized

Latifa bint Mohammed visits Majlis Al Amal, the UAE’s first cancer drop-in centre established by Al Jalila Foundation

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), Member of the Dubai Council and Member of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, visited Majlis Al Amal, the UAE’s first cancer drop-in centre, established by Al Jalila Foundation. Majlis Al Amal is the first community centre of its kind that provides a ‘home away from home’ for female cancer patients and survivors.

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed was welcomed at the offices of Al Jalila Foundation by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Foundation, and Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of the Foundation. Her Highness was briefed about the organisation’s healthcare programmes transforming patients’ lives. She was also briefed on the progress of the project to build ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the UAE’s first cancer charity hospital, being developed by Al Jalila Foundation with the mission of redefining cancer care in the region.

Her Highness toured Majlis Al Amal where cancer patients can drop in anytime for information, take part in art workshops, and attend educational sessions conducted by medical experts. The centre features several other activities designed to enhance the wellbeing of its members. The services of the centre are offered free of charge by volunteers passionate about making a difference to the lives of women affected by cancer. Less than a year since opening its doors, Majlis Al Amal has developed into a 400-strong community of women with cancer. The centre’s members come from all backgrounds united in their mission – to beat cancer.

During her visit, which supports international breast cancer awareness month being marked in October, HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed commended the Foundation’s various teams that work behind its programmes. Her Highness met with women who know first-hand the realities of cancer and its impact on their lives and that of their families, friends and their community.

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed said: “Al Jalila Foundation’s philanthropic medical initiatives have brought significant benefits to the community. Majlis Al Amal is one of the Foundation’s exceptional programmes that supports the physical and mental well-being of female cancer patients and survivors. It was very inspiring to meet and hear the incredible stories of some of the strong women who have found a sense of community and belonging in Majlis Al Amal. I look forward to the continued positive impact of the Foundation’s medical, education, support, and research programmes on people’s lives.”

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said: “Majlis Al Amal supports cancer patients and survivors as they navigate the disease and its challenges. A cancer diagnosis has significant impact psychologically and emotionally and knowing that ‘you are not alone’ and that there is a community to lean on has a huge impact on the wellbeing of patients and their loved ones. Al Jalila Foundation aims to provide a support network in a safe, nurturing environment to women coping with the disease. The centre aims to keep the message of hope alive and improve the wellbeing of women during a very difficult time in their life.”

Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Studies show that emotional support is integral in the healing journey and Majlis Al Amal provides a platform where women can speak openly about their fears, share experiences and lean on each other for comfort and support that they may otherwise not find outside of the ‘cancer community’.  When we established Majlis Al Amal we knew it would be a very special place for women but we never imagined how much our members would come to depend on their new ‘circle of hope’. We are inspired by their stories and it is a privilege for my team and I to be a small part of their journey.”

“All the services and activities are designed to inspire, nurture and support women as they navigate their cancer journey. We are proud to have created this unique, life-changing community service in the UAE for the first time,” concluded Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama.

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has extended AED10 million worth of support to 168 women with cancer unable to afford quality medical care, through its A’awen programme.  One in six patients supported by Al Jalila Foundation have cancer. With the rising incidence of cancer and the consequent need for charity support for patients, Al Jalila Foundation is establishing ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the first comprehensive cancer charity hospital in the UAE, which brings together leading experts to manage prevention, diagnosis and treatment under one roof. The hospital is set to open in 2026 with a vision to redefine cancer care in the region.

As a member of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), which aims to improve the Arab world through humanitarian, developmental and community work, Al Jalila Foundation has, since inception, provided life-saving aid, locally and internationally, contributing to MBRGI’s mission to improve human life.