Under the generous sponsorship of Sheikh Saber Abdulrab Al-Naqib and the supervision of the National Advocacy Network for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the “Hunna” Initiative for Deaf Girls organized the “Ramadan Forum for Female Leaders with Hearing Disabilities.” Held during the 51st International Week of the Deaf, the forum aims to promote active participation and comprehensive empowerment. It embodies the human rights principle that deaf girls are essential partners in societal change, possessing exceptional leadership potential that requires support to reach decision-making positions.
Strategic Integration and Empowerment
In the context of strengthening inclusion policies, Ms. Samira Abdel-Ilah, Inclusion Officer at the National Network and Head of the “Hunna” Initiative, emphasized that integrating young deaf women into public spaces and challenging stereotypes is a strategic priority. She noted that this forum—following a previous Iftar banquet and specialized evening event—is a pivotal step toward moving young women from the margins into the spotlight of empowerment, turning theoretical rights into practical realities that enhance their social presence.
Program Highlights: Health, Rights, and Access
The training program, facilitated by a group of distinguished youth leaders, included several vital segments:
The Right to Health: Dr. Akram delivered an awareness session on physical wellness and the importance of nutritional literacy as a pillar of self-empowerment.
Universal Access: To ensure the inclusive flow of information, Ms. Mona Basharheel provided sign language interpretation throughout the evening.
Rights Awareness: Facilitator Ibrahim Al-Rashidi led discussions focused on raising legal and rights awareness and expanding “Safe Spaces” to ensure community participation without discrimination.
Ms. Ashjan Hassan, Coordinator of Affairs for the Association for the Care and Rehabilitation of the Deaf, expressed her pride in the girls’ successes as “honorable role models” capable of leading transformation. Her maternal words of encouragement, supported by interpreter Ms. Marwa Salem Karama, provided a moral boost that strengthened the cohesion of the participants.
Recognition of Support
In conclusion, the National Network expressed its deep appreciation to Sheikh Saber Abdulrab Al-Naqib, valuing his generous sponsorship and support. The Network noted that such contributions reflect a strong sense of social responsibility toward disability issues, affirming that the forum’s success represents a powerful push toward achieving comprehensive and sustainable development that leaves no one behind.