Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Zayed Authority for People of Determination and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Abu Dhabi Excellence Award for Inclusion of People of Determination - Damj, has chaired the second meeting of the Award's Board of Trustees for 2026. The meeting was attended by board members Shamis Ali Al Dhaheri, Sana Mohamed Suhail, Mohamed Taj El Din Al Qadi, Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Dr. Victor Santiago Pineda, and Dr. Layla Al Hyas.
According to Emirates News Agency, the board commended the winning entities from the Award's inaugural cycle for their efforts in promoting a culture of excellence in inclusion, contributing to empowering environments for People of Determination. These efforts align with Abu Dhabi's commitment to enhancing the quality of life and increasing opportunities for participation across all societal segments.
The board reviewed the outcomes of the award's first cycle, noting the significant engagement from entities within the government, private, and third sectors. The award's impact on raising awareness about excellence in inclusion was highlighted, encouraging entities to adopt inclusive policies in services, employment, and accessibility.
Strategic directions for the award's second cycle were approved, including expanding its geographical reach to all UAE emirates, enhancing award pillars and categories, and strengthening the operational framework and budget. These improvements aim to further establish the award as a leading national platform for promoting excellence in inclusion.
H.H. Sheikh Khalid affirmed the commitment to expanding the Damj Award's scope, reflecting the UAE's vision to empower People of Determination. He emphasized that the achievements of the first cycle laid a foundation for promoting innovation and developing solutions for the evolving needs of People of Determination.
Sheikh Khalid praised institutional efforts to enhance the quality of life for People of Determination and their families, supporting national efforts to create inclusive environments. He highlighted the importance of collaboration across sectors in transforming inclusion principles into sustainable practices.
Shams Ali Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi, remarked on the significance of the award's development in advancing the social sector and elevating inclusion into sustainable practices. He emphasized the need for a responsive approach to meet the needs of People of Determination and their families.
Al Dhaheri noted the Department of Community Development's commitment to an impact-driven approach based on evidence and partnerships, encouraging institutions to develop inclusive services. He stressed the importance of an ecosystem founded on data, innovation, and collaboration.
At the meeting's conclusion, the board expressed appreciation to the award's working teams, partners, and participating entities for their contributions to the inaugural cycle's success.