Arab Hope Makers initiative receives over 20,000 submissions

The Arab Hope Makers, an AED1 million unprecedented initiative, to recognise outstanding individuals and institutions in community service and humanitarian work, has received more than 20,000 entries from Arab countries just two days after its launch by Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The organisers at Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives expect to see an increase in entries before the 3rd April deadline for registration.

The vice president invited outstanding individuals with an accomplished portfolio of philanthropic activities and community initiatives from the Arab region to take part in the initiative.

Under the terms and conditions of the programme, entrants are required to be active in volunteering and humanitarian work, especially noble merits of self-sacrifice and a passion for serving people. Other conditions include people who are recognised in the community for their good conduct and noble humanitarian values, as well as those who believe in the potential of young people in the Arab world.

While announcing the Arab Hope Makers initiative, Sheikh Mohammed invited inspiring individuals aged 5 to 95 years to submit their applications for the title.

Falling under the umbrella of Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives as an extension of the Year of Giving 2017, the AED1 million initiative aims to inspire hope in the Arab region by highlighting heart-warming community stories of kindness. The goal is to explore more than 20,000 inspirational stories and highlight noble humanitarian programmes, projects and initiatives.

The Arab Hope Makers has gone viral on social media networks, receiving an enthusiastic response from visitors across the UAE and Arab world. The initiative's official website, www.ArabHopeMaker.com, has registered more than one million hits and its hashtag is trending.

While registering, the large number of contestants have described their stories and uploaded supporting documents, pictures, videos and websites. They also voluntarily promoted and publicised the initiative through social media platforms to spread the values of giving, hope and generosity across the Arab world. People can also nominate a "Hope Maker."

Many social media activists and influencers have expressed admiration at Sheikh Mohammed's commitment to promoting positivity and opening horizons of hope for Arab youth.

Organisers have committed to promoting the winning humanitarian programmes and securing financial support for winners.