Abu dhabi: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has launched the sixth edition of the Arab Hope Makers initiative. This is the largest initiative of its kind in the Arab world, aiming to celebrate philanthropists and recognize their charitable, social, and humanitarian contributions. The initiative seeks to improve communities, assist those in need, and create a positive impact by dedicating resources and capabilities for the greater good.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the noble achievement of creating hope, which serves communities and nurtures dreams and security. He highlighted the countless examples of generosity and dedication among the Arab world's heroes. The new edition of Hope Makers invites participation and encourages nominating individuals who embody these values at arabhopemakers.com.
The initiative aligns with Sheikh Mohammed's vision of promoting giving and generosity, encouraging volunteers and philanthropists to effect positive change and combat negativity. Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), stressed that the Hope Makers initiative highlights inspiring examples from across the Arab world and spreads a message of optimism.
Al Gergawi noted that since its inception in 2017, the initiative has raised awareness of the impact of volunteering, both individual and institutional. Over its past five editions, it has received more than 320,000 nominations, reflecting the significant potential for good in the Arab world.
Potential Hope Makers, including individuals, volunteering groups, and non-profit organizations, can nominate themselves or be nominated by others. The winner will receive a AED1 million prize. Applications for the sixth edition are open via arabhopemakers.com, aiming to collect and celebrate stories of hope in the Arab world.
The Hope Makers initiative, under MBRGI, seeks impactful projects and initiatives that have improved lives and addressed challenges on a voluntary, non-profit basis. Since its launch in 2017, the initiative has attracted widespread participation, exceeding its original target of submissions.
Last year, the initiative received over 26,000 nominations in one month, with Ahmed Zainoun from Morocco being crowned as the top Arab Hope Maker for his work with children suffering from Xeroderma Pigmentosum. Sheikh Mohammed also honored two other finalists with equivalent cash prizes, raising the total value of prizes to AED3 million.
The initiative aims to amplify the stories and projects of unsung heroes dedicating their time and resources to serve others. It rewards impactful Hope Makers with financial support to expand their reach and fosters a culture of hope and positivity across the Arab world. By showcasing positive role models, it seeks to inspire others toward constructive change and community development.