Abu Dhabi Wraps Up Third Sector Forum: Celebrates Key Achievements

Abu Dhabi: The Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi concluded the third edition of the Third Sector Forum with resounding success. The forum, hosted in partnership with ADNOC at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre, spotlighted achievements in the third sector and honoured outstanding contributions to social responsibility through the Third Sector Awards.

A Platform for Collaboration and Growth

The Third Sector Forum gathered leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore opportunities, tackle challenges, and drive collaboration among volunteer groups, socially responsible businesses, and public benefit associations. The event saw the participation of Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development, Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of DCD, and other senior officials.

The forum featured engaging sessions with local and international experts, aiming to:

• Empower third-sector entities to amplify their impact.
• Strengthen partnerships across public, private, and third-sector organizations.
• Promote innovative and sustainable approaches to community development.

Key Announcements

One major highlight was the announcement of the Third Sector Council, a new initiative to unite representatives from public benefit institutions. The council will address challenges, foster solutions, and create growth opportunities while ensuring the sector’s voice is heard in policymaking.

Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili praised the forum’s role in aligning with Abu Dhabi’s vision for a cohesive and innovative society. “The Third Sector Forum continues to strengthen leadership values that support social development and sustainability. It embodies the aspirations of our wise leadership for a connected and prosperous future,” he said.

Recognizing Excellence: Third Sector Awards

The forum celebrated exceptional contributions through the Third Sector Awards in six categories, inspiring others to drive social change. The winners included:

• Non-for-Profit of the Year 2024: Emirates Cancer Society.
• Most Impactful Non-for-Profit 2024: Operation Smile.
• Social Enterprise of the Year 2024: Nadeera Company.
• Most Impactful Social Enterprise 2024: E-Youth Company.
• Volunteering Team of the Year 2024: The Emirati Marshals Programme Team.
• CSR Initiative of the Year 2024: “Energy for Education” by ADNOC.

Commitment to a Better Society

Mohamed Helal Al Balooshi, Executive Director of Community Engagement at DCD, emphasized the importance of the forum in inspiring innovative solutions. He said, “The Third Sector Awards highlight the immense contributions of this vital sector in addressing social priorities and improving quality of life across Abu Dhabi.”

The Third Sector Forum stands as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s dedication to fostering social solidarity, innovation, and collaboration for a brighter future.