Sharjah inspires global success stories led by 'special people'

Intellectual disability has not been a barrier to self-advocate Maryam Hassan Abdullah Shaheel Al Qahtani in achieving her goals. Her journey has been marked by multiple awards and recognitions across local and international sports events, including representing the UAE national team at the Special Olympics.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

In addition to her role at Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) as a teaching assistant, where she accompanies students to therapy sessions and trains them in basic skills, Shaheel receives full employment rights, equal to her colleagues and coworkers without disabilities. Passionate about photography, she also competes in numerous local and international athletics championships.

Shaheel expressed her heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Honorary President of SCHS, for His Highness's continuous support for people with disabilities across various fields. She also thanked Sheikha Jameela Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director General of SCHS, for her constant efforts in supporting and empowering people with disabilities, while promoting their inclusion, and enhancing their quality of life.