United Arab Emirates – 9 March 2025: In the spirit of Ramadan and to promote inclusivity, JYK Community Services and Westfield Event Management organized a heartfelt Special Iftar for Children and People of Determination at the Gloria Ballroom, Khalidiya Palace Hotel, Dubai. This remarkable evening celebrated the resilience and talents of these inspiring individuals while fostering a deep sense of belonging within society.
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities from across the UAE, reinforcing the importance of community support and inclusion.
A Celebration of Inclusion and Awareness
The primary objective of the Special Iftar was to uplift the families of Children of Determination, making them feel valued and embraced as an integral part of mainstream society. By bridging gaps and fostering awareness, the event aimed to highlight both the challenges these children face and their extraordinary talents and capabilities.
In line with this vision, JYK Community Services extended invitations to individuals from diverse sectors, including government officials, business leaders, entrepreneurs, media personalities, influencers, and socialites. The distinguished guests pledged their commitment to fostering a more inclusive and adaptive community for People of Determination.
Japanese Volunteers Strengthen UAE-Japan Cultural Ties
Adding to the evening’s spirit of generosity, a delegation of 21 Japanese volunteers flew to Dubai to participate in the Iftar and contribute their time to this noble cause. With great enthusiasm, they volunteered to prepare gifts for the children, ensuring that each child received a thoughtful token of love.
Their heartfelt participation was a testament to the deep and beautiful bond between Japan and the UAE, reflecting the values of cross-cultural solidarity and shared humanity. Their willingness to contribute to an Islamic cultural tradition during Ramadan showcased profound respect for Islamic values and a commitment to global unity through acts of kindness.
Special Gifts & Unique Certificates Created with Love & Care
JYK arranged a variety of gifts for Children of Determination and their families, including personal hygiene kits, toys, chocolates, and grocery rations.
Westfield management arranged unique gifts for boys & girls, personal items.
JYK also created a more personalized token of appreciation for supporters and partners. Several canvases were hand-signed by all the Children of Determination present at the Iftar and then presented as unique certificates of appreciation to the supporters and partners.
An Evening of Joy, Connection, and Inspiration
The evening began with a special Iftar and dinner, followed by heartwarming interactions between the children and esteemed guests. The event was filled with memorable moments, as the guests personally engaged with the children, offering words of encouragement and inspiration.
A unique Talent Showcase was arranged, providing the children with an opportunity to express their skills and aspirations. Nilofer Saleem beautifully recited verses from the Quran, marking a profound and spiritual moment to commence the Iftar.
The Khalidiya Palace Hotel management and staff made special arrangements to ensure the comfort of the children, offering a beautifully arranged meal and ensuring accessibility to all hotel amenities.
Juhi Yasmeen Khan, Founder of JYK Community Services, shared her thoughts:
“This initiative is about spreading happiness and ensuring the inclusion of People of Determination in mainstream society. I have been organizing this Iftar for the past 25 years, and I have seen these children grow before my eyes. I share a very special bond with each child and feel blessed to be connected heart to heart with them. Every child possesses a unique talent that deserves recognition and encouragement. By providing them with a platform to showcase their abilities, we hope to inspire greater understanding and support within the community.”
Support from Partners and Volunteers
Mr. Keisaku Nishida, CEO of Westfield Event Management & Ina Vacation Home Rentals expressed his appreciation for the initiative:
“Supporting & partnering this cause has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. At Westfield, we believe in creating events that bring people together and leave a lasting impact. Witnessing the joy and excitement among the children tonight reaffirms our commitment to fostering a more inclusive society.”
In the spirit of giving back, talented henna artists from Aroushi Salon added a festive touch, making the evening even more delightful. Harmony Clinic provided on-site medical check-ups, including dental screenings, ensuring the well-being of the children and their families.
The Special Iftar welcomed over 250 guests, making it a truly memorable and meaningful gathering. Families of determination expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate Ramadan in such a warm and welcoming environment.
One of the special children of determination guests, Nilofer Saleem, shared her joy:
“I feel so happy to be here, enjoying the delicious food, receiving gifts, and spending time with such wonderful people. It’s a night I will always remember.”
Volunteer Mohammad Mustafa emphasized the importance of such initiatives:
“Events like these are essential for bridging social gaps and ensuring that People of Determination receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve. I am honored to have played a small part in this beautiful gathering.”
A Call for Greater Inclusion
Mazhar Farooqui, an award-winning journalist, shared his heartfelt sentiments:
“I have been attending this special Iftar for many years, and it is always a heartwarming experience. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces and witnessing their incredible talents is a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to foster an inclusive and supportive society. I commend JYK and Westfield for their dedication to this noble cause.”
Expressing her admiration for the event, Kalpana Iyer, Bollywood veteran actress, highlighted the UAE government’s dedication to supporting People of Determination:
“The UAE prioritizes inclusivity, and it is crucial for all of us as a community to embrace and support individuals with determination. Initiatives like these remind us of the power of compassion and the importance of carrying these lessons back into our own communities.”
A Step Towards a More Inclusive Future
The JYK & Westfield Special Iftar successfully brought together individuals from all walks of life, reinforcing the values of compassion, unity, and inclusivity. As the evening concluded, guests left with hearts full of joy and a renewed commitment to supporting and empowering People of Determination.
The success of this event serves as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.