Abu Dhabi Awards launches "Musahamati" to encourage youth address community issues

Abu Dhabi, Jan 10, 2012 (WAM) - A new initiative that encourages the youth of Abu Dhabi to develop their own ideas on how to make the Emirate a better place was announced by the Abu Dhabi Awards today. Recognising that youth are an integral part of Abu Dhabi's future, the Abu Dhabi Awards introduced a new initiative titled Musahamati. Musahamati, which means My Contribution' in Arabic, aims to engage 16-23 year olds to submit their own innovative and sustainable ideas that address particular issues in a community. The initiative is more than a competition; it is a chance for the youth to contribute ideas that create positive, lasting change in Abu Dhabi. Open to either individuals or groups of up to five people, entries for Musahamati can be submitted via www.musahamati.ae and must fall within five categories, including Environmental Preservation '&' Awareness, Culture '&' Heritage, Technology '&' Innovation, Healthy Lifestyle and Social Responsibility. The submission period is open from 13 January to 23 February, 2013. In March, Musahamati will host a one-day workshop for the shortlisted candidates, which will include advice from a range of experts on how to develop their ideas, after which the short listed candidates will submit their final proposal to bring the concept to life. The winning proposal will be announced later this year, and Musahamati will provide support and initial seed funding to make it a reality. Fatema Al Mulla, member of the Musahamati organising team, commented: "More than a competition, Musahamati is an opportunity for the youth of Abu Dhabi to make a real difference to their communities." She added "Youth are our future, and therefore the program's objective is to encourage and support their ideas on how to make the Emirate a better place for all. We look forward to seeing the great ideas submitted over the coming weeks." Established under the guidance and auspices of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the Abu Dhabi Awards is a government initiative that recognises individuals who contributed to the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. - Emirates News Agency, WAM