ABU DHABI, 4th May, 2023 (WAM) — The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, Abu Dhabi Government’s dedicated entity that addresses social priorities, continues to positively impact community members across an array of verticals, including sports and fitness.
Fit Fam is a social inclusion programme specifically for people of determination to enjoy football training – improving their overall physical and mental wellbeing and encouraging an overall active lifestyle.
Participants in the programme are buddied with volunteers during their training to further drive cohesion in the community.
Just three weeks after joining the programme, Mohammed Al Naqbi, one of the people of determination participating in Fit Fam, saw their talents recognised by receiving an incredible invitation and full scholarship to play in the Regional Sports Under 18 team, and is now playing with mainstream football players.
Regional Sports is a homegrown private football academy which is leading the charge in providing a safe and inclusive space for all.
“Being part of Fit Fam has been an incredibly enjoyable experience – one where I have made friends for life and been able to demonstrate my skills,” said Mohammed Al Naqbi. “I’m really happy to be part of this programme which gave me the chance to show a private mainstream academy what I can do.”
“We’re so proud of Mohammed Al Naqbi, for demonstrating how far people can go with the right talent and mindset, who are then presented with opportunities to excel,” said Dr. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Acting Community Engagement and Volunteering Executive Director.
“Mohammed Al Naqbi’s progression to the mainstream football team symbolises the reasons behind social programmes such as Fit Fam, to drive inclusivity and opportunities for everyone to feel part of the community. The buddy system with our generous volunteers is crucial in this progression, further demonstrating the pivotal role volunteers play in shaping others’ lives.”
Fit Fam is funded through Ma’an’s Community Volunteering Programme Grant, and those looking to get involved and make a difference, can email community.engagement@maan.gov.ae to receive support and funding to run impactful community volunteering programmes.