Dubai: The Dubai Police, represented by the People of Determination Empowerment Council, hosted the ‘Happiness Kiosk’ for individuals with Down Syndrome, which was managed by the Emirates Down Syndrome Hospitality Academy ‘s students. 

The initiative is part of the Emirates Down Syndrome Association's sustainable projects, which was aimed at training and empowering individuals with Down Syndrome, showcasing their talents and abilities, and highlighting their contributions across various fields.

The event, held for a week at the Dubai Police General HQ, was attended by Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansoori, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness; Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association; her deputy, Nawal Al Nasser; Major Abdullah Al Shamsi, Chairperson of the People of Determination Empowerment Council at Dubai Police; and several officers and guests.

Social Responsibility

Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansoori, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness, stated, “The hosting of the ‘Happiness Kiosk' exemplifies Dubai Police's commitment to its social role in supporting and empowering people of determination, including those with Down syndrome. We believe that assisting these individuals is a shared social responsibility that requires collaborative efforts between government and private institutions to foster a tolerant and inclusive society. This commitment involves forming strategic partnerships and fostering ongoing cooperation with relevant entities, such as the Emirates Down Syndrome Association, ensuring continuous rehabilitation and integration."

Sustainable Environment

Major Abdullah Al Shamsi remarked, "In line with the Year of Community and to strengthen Dubai Police's social role, this initiative embodies a partnership between the People of Determination Empowerment Council and the Emirates Down Syndrome Association. It is a key component of our strategic plan to empower and support individuals of determination within the police and the wider community. We believe that training and rehabilitation are fundamental rights for everyone. At the People of Determination Empowerment Council, we are dedicated to fostering a sustainable and inclusive environment that enhances the skills and abilities of this group, encouraging their professional, academic, and social engagement."

Meanwhile, Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Dubai Police, under the leadership of His Excellency Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, for creating opportunities for individuals with Down Syndrome to engage in their empowerment and integration. She also extended her thanks to Major Abdullah Al Shamsi, Chairperson of the People of Determination Empowerment Council at Dubai Police, for their exceptional support, emphasizing their vital role in facilitating assistance and cooperation, particularly in training individuals with Down Syndrome in para-taekwondo as well as ensuring their active and distinguished participation in various events and addressing their unique needs.

Dr. Jarrour stated, "In its initial phase, the project has successfully achieved its objectives by providing specialized training through the first program of its kind in the country at the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management. We tailored three courses to suit their abilities, empowering them for future employment. Additionally, we launched our inaugural product line, registered the trademark and visual identity, and obtained all necessary licenses to advance and expand this project thoughtfully."

She added, "The project is now starting to yield results, with academy graduates actively participating in various events organized by government entities. They provided hospitality services, including coffee and biscuits lovingly made by their own hands, which garnered enthusiastic praise from our wise leadership.

They showcased their skills during a meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination in Dubai, at the Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children. Additionally, they took part in the Sustainable Impact Challenge Awards organized by the National CSR Fund 'Majra’, the DB World Excellence Awards, the Arab Reading Challenge at the Dubai World Trade Center, and the opening ceremony of the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad, hosted by the UAE and organized by the Ministry of Education, which welcomed representatives from over 90 countries at the InterContinental Festival Hotel in Dubai.

Ms. Nawal Al Nasser, Vice Chairwoman of Emirates Down Syndrome, expressed, "We are thrilled to be at the Dubai Police General HQ. Our commitment lies in economically empowering individuals with Down Syndrome by providing them with suitable job opportunities and enhancing their participation in the workforce.

It’s worth mentioning that the 'Happiness Kiosk' is operated by individuals with Down Syndrome, who showcased their talents in coffee making and preparing various products and desserts, all crafted by their own hands. This vibrant initiative demonstrates their creativity and positive spirit and marks the beginning of their journey as they sell their products in an atmosphere filled with pride, joy, and robust community support."