The inaugural CSR programme aims to improve women's health and well being through cycling.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Team ADQ is pleased to announce the launch of its inaugural Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative as part of its extensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy.

This significant milestone highlights UAE Team ADQ's dedication to creating a positive influence in the UAE and contributing to the nation's sustainability objectives.

As part of its ESG strategy's social impact pillar, UAE Team ADQ launched its first CSR initiative in collaboration with ADQ, the Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company and the team's title sponsor.

The inaugural CSR programme aims to improve women's health and well-being through cycling. It supports the establishment of the UAE's first corporate female cycling team, the "ADQ Corporate Women’s Cycling Team."

The programme consisted of a 12-week foundation course and an 8-week advanced athletic course led by trainers and athletic performance specialists from UAE Team ADQ.

Throughout the programme, the cyclists engaged in practical sessions and workshops covering various topics such as gear-changing, bike practice, bike positioning, weather analysis, and nutrition.

Upon the successful completion of phase one, select participants were given the opportunity to partake in their first cycling competition. These individuals accomplished distances spanning from 20 to 40 kilometers. This achievement emphasizes the profound importance of fostering inclusive sports initiatives to overcome obstacles faced by women in this domain.

The programme aimed to enhance women's health and well-being by harnessing the power of cycling. Leveraging its extensive resources, expertise, and strategic partnerships, UAE Team ADQ dedicated itself to empowering beginners, enabling them to reach their full potential and unlock a newfound level of cycling professionalism.

Melissa Moncada, UAE Team ADQ Board Director, said: "As participants progressed at their individual pace throughout the program, one thing remained constant: the unwavering guidance, support, and remarkable camaraderie that accompanied them on their transformative cycling journey.

“UAE Team ADQ remains fully committed to this program as an integral part of our ESG Strategy and social impact pillars. We will continue collaborating with local organisations and closely engage with stakeholders who share our passion for fostering a healthy lifestyle among their employees."

Donia Bouabsa, Head of Communications and Sustainability at UAE Team ADQ, said: “UAE Team ADQ is deeply committed to cultivating a thriving cycling community within the UAE. Our unwavering mission is to empower women through the transformative power of cycling, providing them a platform to explore their unique talents, realize their full potential, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded women.

“Cycling is a remarkable enabler, unlocking the inherent abilities of women and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among fellow female cyclists. The program has positively impacted the participants, and we are excited about reaching out to more enthusiastic female cyclists in the future.”

Anas Jawdat Albarguthi, Chief Operating Officer at ADQ, stated, "We are dedicated to creating an empowering and inspiring platform that enables our employees to reach their full physical potential. This program aims to break barriers, instill confidence, and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth. In collaboration with UAE Team ADQ, we acknowledge the significant benefits of enhanced physical and mental well-being and strive to promote it across ADQ and our portfolio companies."

UAE Team ADQ's cycling-centered corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative empowers women employees, regardless of their fitness levels, to embrace cycling, a healthy lifestyle, and elevate their athletic capabilities. The inaugural programme demonstrated an impressive 80% progression rate, with participants seamlessly transitioning to phase two while witnessing substantial enhancements in their cycling proficiencies.