Environment

The Family Development Foundation (FDF) has launched the ‘Youth Circles’ initiative in celebration of International Youth Day, which this year is themed ‘Digital Pathways for Youth towards Sustainable Development.’ The initiative is being held across all FDF centers in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region, with events scheduled to continue until the end of August 2024.

The inaugural Youth Circle, titled ‘My Digital Experience: Sustainability for My Community,’ took place at the Zayed City Community Centre. The session featured a variety of activities that emphasized the critical role of youth in driving technological innovation and promoting sustainable development.

Key Statements and Objectives

Wafa Al Ali, Acting Director of the Family Development Department at FDF, highlighted the importance of this event in showcasing the efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who has been a steadfast supporter of youth empowerment and sustainable development. Al Ali underscored Her Highness’s dedication to fostering an environment that nurtures ambition, innovation, and creativity among young people, aligning with the UAE’s long-term strategic goals.

Al Ali also pointed out the significance of youth in advancing modern technologies that contribute to sustainability and innovation. She emphasized that the Foundation is committed to creating an inspiring environment that supports innovation and the development of new concepts. To this end, FDF has launched various programs aimed at enhancing the capabilities of young people, encouraging them to engage in creative and innovative pursuits.

Asila Al Kalbani, Director of the Child and Youth Department at FDF, spoke about the importance of these programs in empowering children and young people with essential social skills. She noted that the initiative seeks to raise awareness among youth about their responsibilities to their communities and to leverage their talents through meaningful activities. The programs also aim to promote the role of youth in addressing social challenges through digital innovation.

Event Highlights and Themes

Bahia Al-Marzouqi, Head of the Youth Skills and Abilities Development Department at FDF, led the Youth Circle event, which focused on the theme ‘My Digital Experience: Sustainability for My Community.’ The session brought together over 300 young people from various FDF centers in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and the Al Dhafra region. Participants shared their experiences and success stories, offering inspiration to their peers and the broader community.

Al-Marzouqi noted that the International Youth Day events organized by FDF address several important themes, including the benefits and challenges of adapting to a digital lifestyle, societal awareness of digital transformation, the impact of digital skills on quality of life, and the opportunities that digital innovation will create in the future. She also emphasized the need to develop young people's digital skills to meet the demands of future generations and achieve sustainable development goals.

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