Post by : Badri Ariffin

The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi recently held its second edition of the “Where Life Pulses” event in the Zakher District of Al Ain, drawing over 6,000 attendees and underscoring the significance of community involvement and family participation.

Hosted at Zakher Park, this initiative aimed to empower children and youth, transforming neighborhoods into dynamic social environments. Families, aspiring entrepreneurs, government representatives, and community members gathered to partake in a joyous atmosphere filled with educational, cultural, and entertainment offerings.

Several dignitaries attended the event, including His Excellency Shamis Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, and His Excellency Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Secretary General of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, among others from collaborating organizations.

Participants enjoyed a diverse array of activities such as youth-operated business booths, engaging games, live performances, culinary experiences, and creative workshops. The event featured over 12 workshops that allowed attendees to delve into activities like coffee painting, canvas art, bracelet making, clay modelling, origami, and tote bag painting.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi contributed through the Proud of the UAE initiative, offering activities linked to Arabic calligraphy, traditional crafts, decoupage, and nature-inspired art, aimed at fortifying national identity, heritage, and Emirati values.

Entertainment options included bubble displays, face painting, balloon artistry, and engaging family games like Jenga, hopscotch, and labyrinth challenges, fostering family bonds and community engagement.

Fatema Abdulrahman Al Hosani, Director of Social Cohesion at the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, stated that the substantial turnout and community involvement highlighted the initiative's success in fortifying family and social ties. She emphasized the program's role in assisting youth by providing avenues to present their projects and entrepreneurial concepts while deepening their connection to Emirati customs and traditions.

The successful Zakher event benefited from partnerships with various Abu Dhabi governmental bodies. The Department of Municipalities and Transport and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge focused on community and student engagement, while the Department of Economic Development aided young entrepreneurs with licensing resources. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority assisted by incorporating beneficiaries into entrepreneurial endeavors.

Funding for the initiative came from the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, along with key sponsorship from Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC), and support from numerous other partners. The event also provided a platform for the Madeem initiative and the Emirati Family Growth Program.

Looking ahead, the Department of Community Development announced that the “Where Life Pulses” initiative will continue in multiple residential neighborhoods across Abu Dhabi until 2026. Each event will feature activities tailored to resonate with local residents’ identities and interests to foster broader community involvement.

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