The UAE mission to the United Nations, in cooperation with the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination and the International Rehabilitation Organization, organized a side event titled “Empowering Life through Inclusive Approaches” to highlight initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people of determination. This event focused on removing obstacles that hinder their integration and active participation in national programs and plans, transitioning from intention to effective action for these goals.
The event coincided with the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP-18) at the UN headquarters in New York. Speakers at the event recommended exploring successful initiatives that demonstrate effective funding for comprehensive programs for people with disabilities, improving their access to healthcare and employment opportunities (Goal 8 of the Sustainable Development Goals: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Abdullah al-Hammadi, Secretary-General of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, highlighted innovative ways to enhance inclusive education and employment for people of determination, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to proactive integration. Christoph Gfrorer, President of the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics, discussed the organization’s role in promoting partnerships between stakeholders to enhance the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Abdullah Ismail Al Kamali, Executive Director of the People of Determination Sector at the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, emphasized comprehensive development for people with disabilities and showcased success stories and solutions achieved by the UAE. Mira Al Shamsi, a genetic counselor at the International Rehabilitation Organization, shed light on crafting a comprehensive healthcare and rehabilitation system for people with disabilities rooted in innovation and fairness.
Dr. Madan Kondu, Vice President of the International Rehabilitation Organization, discussed ways to enhance the work and employment of people of determination in profitable and purposeful ventures to promote their active participation in development. Dr. Chrisann Schiro-Geist, Professor and Director of the Disability Institute at the University of Memphis, addressed empowering youth with intellectual disabilities to transition to work and engage in their communities.
The UAE event featured Emirati experiences, including Ahmed Al Darmaki, a coach at the Al Ain Club for People of Determination, and Maryam Al Qubaisi, ambassador for Multiple Sclerosis and evaluator in the Comprehensive Design Program for Inclusion. Al Darmaki shared his journey starting as a deaf child, receiving support and education from the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination to establish the first football team for the deaf in the UAE.
Maryam Al Qubaisi, diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at 17, became an ambassador to raise awareness and challenge stigma, contributing to building an inclusive world. She expressed pride in participating in the UAE event at the UN headquarters in New York, reflecting the country’s dedication to caring for this group.