National CSR Fund – MAJRA participates in the Third Sector Forum in Abu Dhabi
The National CSR Fund – MAJRA participated in the third edition of the Third Sector Forum, organised by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD), in collaboration with ADNOC, to support third-sector institutions and drive a positive impact on society.
During the Forum, held under the theme ‘Partners in Impact’ at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre, Sarah Shaw, Director of the National CSR Fund – MAJRA, took part in an interactive session titled ‘Unpacking the Value Chain of Social Impact Entrepreneurship in the UAE’. The session was organised by the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, in partnership with StartAD, to evaluate and review the effective measures and strategies for developing sustainable projects.
This panel congregated a distinguished group of local and international speakers, including Ashwin Joshi, Director of StartAD, moderator for the panel discussion; Farah Al Qaissieh, Managing Director of SpeechCare Center; Salma Gharama, Director, Social Incubation and Contracting – Ma’an; Daniel Soloman, Founder of HeroGo. The speakers offered their invaluable insights into the CSR projects and the requisite measures that can be adopted to implement them and create a positive impact on society.
A presentation was delivered during the session that delved deep into the specific needs of social entrepreneurs at both the early and later stages of their projects. This presentation also included a study that showcased the lack of crucial support for these entrepreneurs during the later stages of projects compared to those in their early stages. The study also focused on strategies for launching and promoting early-stage projects, revealing a strong emphasis on these strategies compared to those required for later-stage ventures.
During the session, speakers responded to specific questions related to the study while Sarah Shaw emphasised the significance of CSR initiatives launched by Majra in supporting social entrepreneurs. She noted that these initiatives are well-aligned with the specific needs of entrepreneurs at various stages of their projects.
Sarah Shaw, Director of the National CSR Fund – MAJRA, said: “At the National CSR Fund – Majra, we are committed to launching CSR initiatives that support third sector institutions and social entrepreneurs. These initiatives are crucial to creating a supportive environment where social entrepreneurs can bring their projects to life, enabling them to make a positive impact on society. It also stimulates the progress and prosperity of social enterprises, fostering innovation and social impact. Strategic guidance, coupled with financial support, can significantly contribute to the growth and development of such projects and organisations. We seek to develop CSR programs that provide the necessary financial support to empower third sector institutions and bring about tangible changes in society.”
She added: “We also seek to provide collaboration opportunities and mentorship programs, as well as foster knowledge exchange to enhance the positive impact on society. In line with this, we have developed initiatives that support enablers by aligning private sector resources with social entrepreneurship needs, fostering an environment that is conducive to innovation. We look forward to making more social contributions and collaborating with stakeholders, thereby advancing the progress of third-sector institutions and social entrepreneurship in the UAE.”
Sara Shaw emphasised Majra’s efforts to support CSR projects and provide them with social and financial services, advancing their progress and prosperity. The Fund is keen to launch more CSR initiatives that promote a culture of corporate social responsibility, encourage cooperation between the government and private sectors, as well as consolidate sustainability practices, in line with the UAE’s strategic priorities, such as preserving the environment and promoting economic diversity.
Last Updated on 2 months by News Desk 1
