Sixteen-year-old Dania Hassan has become the only student from the eastern region of the UAE to be honoured with ‘Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Award for Excellence’.
She was lauded for her outstanding academic performance, leadership skills and contribution to social, environmental and global citizenship.
“I started working towards the award criteria almost a year ago. Getting rewarded for academic and co-curricular excellence is both inspirational and motivational. Reading and hearing about other students who’ve received this prestigious award before me also inspired me to aim and work towards it,” said the class 11 student of GEMS Winchester School, Fujairah.
“But irrespective of the award, I’ve always believed in having a holistic approach towards everything,” she added.
Dania said her disciplined approach enabled her to bag the award. “I am a sportsperson and love playing netball. I’ve continuously participated in various school initiatives and charity works that I genuinely like doing and is close to my heart. I have been part of beach cleaning sessions and have volunteered in other philanthropic activities raising funds for the underprivileged. The proceeds were sent to the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC). It’s something that you do over the years, in a sustained manner, that ultimately pays off.
“Sheikha Fatima is a legendary figure and an inspiration for all women. Today, women are coming up in every sphere of life, it is important to recognise their achievements, leading to future potential and that’s exactly what this award does.”
Dania’s father Dr Syed Hassan underlines how young people are the trailblazers of tomorrow and how a little bit of direction enables them to reach greater heights. “Her teachers inspired her to unlock her full potential to think and collaborate to make the world a better place. Right from the beginning, Dania has been a disciplined child who believes in utilising her time to an optimum level.
“Her gold medal and certificate is still due because of the Covid-19 situation and we are looking forward to that momentous day,” added the Khorfakkan resident.
The Sheikha Fatima Award for Excellence was established by GEMS Education in 2005 and highlights Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak’s role as Mother of the Nation, and her vision to celebrate and support women’s achievements and self-determination. The award includes a scholarship covering a year’s tuition fee for a winner at each GEMS school.
© Khaleej Times
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