Up until the age of 12, Khalid Hawari, a young Palestinian born and raised in Abu Dhabi, had never experienced formal schooling. Financial constraints meant that his education was limited to basic reading and writing taught at home.
“I couldn’t go to school for financial reasons,” recalled the 18-year-old. That changed when his mother’s friend introduced the family to the Lotus Holistic Retal Institute, which offers high-quality education and vocational training to individuals of all ages, with a particular focus on low-income and conflict-affected communities.
The institute’s Building Better Futures programme, which Khalid became part of, was launched in May 2024 to equip UAE-based youth from conflict-affected countries with vocational skills and certifications to enhance their employability.
Run in collaboration with UNHCR and the Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund, the initiative offers training in key sectors aligned with UAE’s job market demands. Participants, aged 18 to 35, receive accredited certifications in fields such as digital marketing, graphic design, gym instruction, early childhood education, and data analysis. The programme also includes English language sessions in partnership with NYU Abu Dhabi, designed to boost adaptability and communication skills.
When Khalid arrived at Lotus Retal in 2018, he was evaluated and placed into the “Champions Class”, a name that represents the institute’s unique approach to maintaining students’ motivation, irrespective of their academic level.
“There are no grades as in traditional schools, only classes based on your level…because imagine if I were 12 and they put me in grade 1 or 2, it would’ve been very demotivating,” he explained.
For two years, Khalid studied Maths, Arabic, Science, and other official subjects at the institute before continuing his education online through the Syrian Smart School. Khalid reached ninth grade last year; however, the school required him to travel to Syria for the exams, which was not possible due to logistical and financial challenges.
“This year I studied again, and I am seeking an arrangement where I can sit for the exams at a school here in Abu Dhabi instead. I studied very hard both years and I am confident if I finish ninth grade, I’ll be able to jump to 12th grade – they offer this option for those 18 and above,” he said. His first exam is scheduled for June 14.
To date, 61 participants have secured job offers through the initiative, with many more hopeful that the upcoming job fair at Fatima College of Health Sciences in Abu Dhabi on May 9, 2025, will create further opportunities.
Khalid, who has been training in life coaching, graphic design, digital marketing, gym instruction, first aid, and carpentry, is optimistic. “I am trying to find a job as a fitness coach at one of the gyms, and/or a job at a digital marketing company. I am very optimistic about the career fair tomorrow. I feel I will find good opportunities,” he said.
His determination is driven by his family responsibilities. “I have a younger brother and sister, and my father, 60, is jobless, so it is my responsibility to support the family and be a role model for my younger siblings. They have to see that I am resilient. I cannot lose hope,” he said. While continuing his education online, Khalid has been volunteering and learning various vocational skills at Lotus Retal.
The job fair is expected to draw employers from diverse industries, offering a platform for participants to present their skills and secure meaningful employment. Lotus Holistic Retal Institute Director, May Kadkoy, emphasised the importance of the event: “Through the Building Better Futures programme, we aim to provide these young professionals with the tools and opportunities to thrive, contributing positively to the nation’s workforce.”
Open to all job seekers, the event places special emphasis on Arabic-speaking candidates from conflict-affected backgrounds. Employers, organisations, and community members are encouraged to attend and support the mission of economic inclusion and sustainable livelihoods.
The Building Better Futures job fair will be held from 12.30pm to 5pm.
© Khaleej Times
Twitter