Sharjah: The Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work has announced the extension of its registration period for the 23rd cycle, now open until January 31, 2026. This decision comes in response to requests from individuals and institutions seeking additional time to prepare their entries for the award's various categories.
According to Emirates News Agency, the extension aims to enhance participation and foster competitive spirit among volunteer initiatives. This move is in line with efforts to promote a culture of volunteering and encourage innovation within community service. The award encompasses 15 categories that include volunteer, humanitarian, and social work, such as the Role Model Volunteer Award for individuals and families nominated by government and private entities, and the Best Neighbourhood in Volunteer Work Award aimed at boosting local community engagement in Sharjah.
Additional categories include the Excellence in Social Responsibility Award, which encourages institutions of all sizes to implement innovative social initiatives, and the Best Volunteer Opportunities Provider Award for entities and teams that deliver sustainable volunteer projects. The Outstanding Supporter of Volunteer Work Award acknowledges financial or knowledge-based contributions, particularly those that influence policy development related to volunteer projects. The Best Volunteer Initiative Award recognizes impactful initiatives from various sectors, including government and private entities, the private sector, volunteer teams, individuals, and families.
The award further includes the Record Number of Volunteer Hours Award for private institutions, volunteer teams, individuals, and families; the University Student Award for the most significant volunteer participation among university students; and the Volunteer Knight Award for school students achieving the highest number of volunteer hours. Senior citizens are honored through the Authenticity Award, which acknowledges their significant volunteer contributions, and the Himmah Award recognizes the best volunteer participation by People of Determination. Other categories include Best Private Entity Award, Best Volunteer Team Award, Best Young Volunteer Team Leader Award, and the Excellence in Specialised Volunteering Award, presented to individuals or teams applying their scientific and professional expertise in volunteer work with sustainable impact.
Dr. Jassim Al Hammadi, Secretary-General of the Award, noted that participation has increased annually, signaling a growing recognition of volunteering's role in fostering humanitarian values and supporting sustainable development. He explained that the registration extension allows applicants more time to effectively prepare their submissions.
Suad Al Shamsi, Executive Director of the Award, highlighted that the 23rd cycle includes new categories designed to meet community needs. She mentioned that evaluation would commence immediately after the registration period concludes, and encouraged individuals, institutions, and volunteer teams to participate, emphasizing volunteer work as an investment in building a resilient and cohesive society.
Applications can be submitted through the Award's website.