In the UAE, philanthropy is not just individual charity, but a comprehensive societal strategy that extends to all members of society. This was stated by Sheikha Layla bint Khalid Al Qasimi during a discussion titled «Philanthropy and Impact Investing as a New Model for Sustainable Growth in the Region», held as part of the ninth Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival.
Sheikha emphasized that the UAE government plays a pivotal role in providing a model for the community to follow through initiatives that encourage volunteering and social contribution. She cited the support for children in Gaza as a practical example, where parents involved their children in preparing and collecting food to foster the values of teamwork and charity from a young age.
She also highlighted the importance of awards and initiatives like the Zayed Sustainability Award, which aims to support youth in implementing innovative projects that serve the community. She also mentioned the efforts of the consort of the Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, President of the Sharjah Supreme Family Council, through numerous initiatives and programs, such as the Pink Caravan for early breast cancer detection. She noted that last October, the caravan provided free medical screening services to nearly 20,000 people across the country, with the participation of companies that rent mobile buses for their employees.
Sheikha Layla pointed out that education is one of the most important areas for sustainable philanthropy, as it can be a means of giving back to the community in the long term. She added that integrating philanthropy into a project's strategy and the spirit of social responsibility makes every economic project a tool for societal advancement, reflecting the essence of the UAE's philosophy of solidarity.
In her closing remarks, Sheikha Layla addressed entrepreneurs directly, stressing the importance of giving from the start and not waiting until one becomes wealthy. «Many people and project owners think they need to be rich before they can start giving, but the reality is that there is no need to reach that extent to start giving,» she said. She also urged not to forget ordinary employees, to learn their names and origins, to be grateful to them, and to help them.
Sheikha Layla bint Khalid Al Qasimi also gave examples of UAE universities, such as the American University of Sharjah and New York University Abu Dhabi, which encourage donors to support scholarships for outstanding students who lack the financial means, a cause she termed «Driving Forward». She added that philanthropy does not need to be tied to wealth; it can start with small things like volunteering and participating in improving the local environment.
