Recognised for creating education opportunities to underprivileged and special needs children across the Middle East, START, a non-profit organisation, will host a Royal Gala Dinner in March to raise funds needed to support three scholarship awards that will change the lives of students.
Now in its third edition, START’s scholarship programmes have earned themselves a distinguished reputation having made a marked impact on the students who have received them, by introducing them to life-changing personalities and experiences that can further their education and career.
The ‘UAE START Scholarship Award’ will offer one Emirati orphan from Al Zayed orphanage in Abu Dhabi an 18-month scholarship. During the scholarship, the winner will work with prestigious organisations across the UAE, allowing them to explore and experience multiple disciplines and career opportunities across various sectors.
The second award, supported by Majid Al Futtaim, will award the 2013 ‘Jordan START Scholarship’ to a young and talented student called Dana Saleh who is pursuing a career in interior design.
The programme will cover tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses, a remarkable gesture to give her the opportunity to fulfil her ambition and follow a career path she might never have been able to.
Lastly, with the support of Harry Winston, START will again be financially supporting Noamann Ahmad, winner of 2012’s ‘Dubai Autism Scholarship’ award, by giving him access to full-time education at the Dubai Autism Centre, a move that has been gratefully received by Noamann’s mother Benazeer for lending the helping hand that will give Noamann the special level of care and tutorship he needs.