Children of determination take part in event

Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter

A large number of children of determination (special needs) took part in a various activities as part of the day-long 2nd annual ‘Common Ground’ organised by the Aster Volunteers, the global corporate social responsibility initiative of Aster DM Healthcare.

The event that was organised by hundreds of volunteers was also attended by representatives of Senses – Residential Day Care for Special Needs, The Dubai Autism Centre, Vishakha School of Dance & Music for Special Children and Dubai Centre for Special Needs.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman and Managing Director of Aster DM Healthcare and a keynote address was delivered by chief guest Shobika Kalra, Founder – ‘Wings of Angelz’, a disability awareness group in UAE.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 11 percent of the UAE population live with a disability, with the UAE government placing an emphasis on driving inclusion.

The event ‘Common Ground’ was held at the Dubai Club for People of Determination

Dr. Azad Moopen while talking to the Gulf Today said that “Aster DM Healthcare, so far, has recruited 108 differently abled individuals, across different units, as part of one of the 6 pillars of the Aster Volunteers initiative - providing employment opportunities to the differently abled.

“The “Common Ground” event, in its second year of inception has aimed to not just create awareness about the inclusivity of differently abled persons into the workplace and everyday lives but also to encourage differently abled children from various special needs organizations to participate in a day filled with fun and laughter,” he added.

He also announced the launch of Aster Volunteers Sign Language Training Program soon.

The aim of the event held under the ‘super heroes’ themed fashion show titled “Beyond Labels” was participated by differently abled children from The Dubai Autism Centre and Vishakha School of Dance & Music for Special Children and Dubai Centre for Special Needs.  

Aster Volunteer and costume designer, Sushma Nair dressed the children while Aster Volunteer, dancer and special kids dance and art expert, Vishaka Verma choreographed the ramp walk and the group dance.  The flagship activity celebrated inclusivity alongside music and dance performances by differently abled children to mark the occasion and empower people of determination across the UAE.