Culture

RJ Sarah’s Spread Smiles platforms talents of People of Determination

18 Mar 2023

Spreading smiles at the event.

Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

The debut public event of Spread Smiles, an emerging event management company headed by RJ Sarah, a Social Media Influencer based in the UAE and also Spread Smiles Founder, celebrated Women’s Day 2023 on March 12. “It is an ideal platform to highlight the significant achievements and valuable contributions of women, alongside empowering and inspiring others to rise and shine,” said RJ Sarah. Spread Smiles utilised the occasion by providing a platform for People of Determination living in the Emirates, an opportunity to showcase their talent.

Para-ability women and children were honoured and young entrepreneurs were also recognised and motivated by having details of their enterprises applauded and screened. It was an inspirational evening and the People proved they are not less than their compatriots when it comes to proving everyone is unique, in a multiverse world. The PoD stole the hearts of everyone; it was an emotional occasion, with parents, nannies, maids, upcoming entrepreneurs, teachers and the audience, united in their purpose to highlight perhaps not-so-noticed merit. Support the People of Determination in all possible ways, was the theme.

A honouree takes centre stage at the event.

The event recognised Mothers, Pink Collar women, Mothers-in-law … in fact, all women who have devoted their lives to make life better. There were 35 participants from the People of Determination community, who showcased their individual excellence. They presented their shows – which included an exciting fashion parade, a palette of songs, and a bowlful of exuberant dances – with careful orchestration and wonderful energy.

Their co-ordination as a group, cheerful performances that made their handicap a mere nothing, and their mutual cheers, were a treat to watch. Those in the audience, which consisted of proud parents, were moved to see their loved ones taking centre stage. Happy faces among the pink collar women and mothers-in- law who were awarded for their work, enhanced the evening’s ambience.

The moms of People of Determination were, of course, the people who made the event happen. They were rightly mentioned multiple times for their perseverance and their will to empower their wards. Their moving stories spanned many walks of life. Each participant showcased their determination, dedication, strength, and pure grit, as they presented their talents to the world.

A participant being honoured.

The Guests of Honour were Dr. Alka Kalra, CEO - Eduscan Group of Schools; Shobika Kalra, Founder - Wings of Angelz and Jayanarayanan, Principal, Al Ibtisama Centre for People of Disabilities. Also present were Director of Captain TV (GCC) Kamal KVL; Secretary of Captain TV (GCC) Imman Hameed Yaseen; entrepreneurs and social activists Kudil Mahadevan, Harish and Sona Ram; BM group’s Dr. Kanagaraj and Gilli FM’s Umar, besides other personalities.

The host was Ayesha Shaikh. Founder RJ Sarah said she wanted to take the message of Spread Smiles everywhere and to everyone. “Surely,” she said, “others too are hosting similar happenings. But I have lit the torch of bright happiness and am sure it will spread everywhere. To Spread Smiles is our motto!” She underlined that Spread Smiles is a pioneer in creating bespoke events for distinguished clients. “Our close-knit team of passionate event planners understand the brand personality of each of our clients and create customised events, with unexpected extras and exciting add-ons, along with great designs and ideas,” she said.

RJ Sarah is the Founder of Spread Smiles.

“Our attention to detail speaks volumes about the passion and creativity that goes into every event.” Spread Smiles provides services from planning and execution to 24-hour customer support. “The challenges are immense - but so are the opportunities,” RJ Sarah said, commenting on the event. “It is of paramount importance that women and children with disabilities should learn that they can move freely and independently.”

Most often, in moments of crisis, people in vulnerable situations, such as persons with disabilities, are the most excluded and left behind. But disability inclusion is an essential condition to upholding human rights, sustainable development, and peace and security. It is also central to the promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to leave no one behind. The commitment to realising the rights of persons with disabilities is not only a matter of justice; it is an investment in a common future.

A singer pours her heart out.

In line with the central premise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to “leave no one behind”, it is crucial for governments, public and private sectors to collaboratively find innovative solutions for and with persons with disabilities to make the world a more accessible and equitable place. Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General offered this message on December 3, 2022, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities: “Our world is confronting a cascade of crises that are disproportionally impacting persons with disabilities. We need transformative solutions to rescue the Sustainable Development Goals and leave no one behind.

This requires greater public-private sector collaboration to develop strategies for, with and by, persons with disabilities. “The cornerstone of this cooperation must be the active participation of persons with disabilities in their full diversity, and their full inclusion in all decision-making processes. Innovation and technology can be powerful tools for inclusion.

They can enhance access to information, education, and lifelong learning. And they can open new avenues for persons with disabilities to participate in the workforce and society at large on an equal basis. “On this day and every day, let us work together in finding innovative solutions to build an accessible and equitable world for all.”