A handful of young members from Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah (SYL), a subsidiary of the Rubu' Qarn Foundation for Creating Leaders and Innovators, dedicated a day to lift up the spirits of the residents of the Old People's Home in Sharjah. 

 

A Heritage Day was organised by SYL in cooperation with the Department of Social Services, Sharjah, as part of Sajaya’s efforts to inspire the values of care and empathy in young ladies, enhance their engagement in social activities and encourage them to communicate people not in their age group, especially those in social care facilities. 

 

The day had a packed programme of events including video clips and storytelling sessions that highlighted the UAE rich historical heritage and authentic customs and traditions. Participants wore Emirati traditional costumes, and elderly women enjoyed having henna designs drawn onto their hands. 

 

Sheikha Aisha Khalid Al Qasimi, Director of Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah, said: “We are keen to encourage communication between the young and old generations, and teach our young members to respect their elders, engage with them and preserve our noble values and traditions, which are part of the unique identity of Emirati society. Our aim is to foster a generation of young ladies to be active contributors to humanitarian and social work.” 

 

Sheikha Aisha added: “The visit brought a smile to the faces of Sharjah’s senior most citizens, and was equally rewarding for us as it helped our future generations to experience the UAE’s heritage and listen to inspiring stories and receive wisdom from residents of the Old People's Home.”    

 

Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah is a leading organisation dedicated to developing the talents of young girls in the age group of 13-18, in all creative spheres. It was established in 2004 under the umbrella of Sharjah Children’s Centres before it became an independent entity in 2012, following an administrative decree issued by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Creating Leaders and Innovators.