Children of determination walk the ramp in Dubai

The children competed for 17 different titles and talent categories. Cash prizes were also awarded for enthusiasm and proactiveness.

Children of determination took to the ramp at the 'Walk of Confidence' fashion show on Thursday, wearing their favourite dresses and slickest suits.
The show was part of the Sambhavana Festival, a week-long series of events being held in the run-up to Ramadan, aimed at promoting the inclusion of children with physical and mental challenges. The event was held at the The Ismaili Centre in Bur Dubai, with 17 categories of titles ranging from Mr and Ms Congeniality, Mr and Ms Photogenic to Mr and Ms Talented. Cash prizes were also awarded for enthusiasm, proactiveness, beautiful smiles, dancing and singing.
Approximately 25 children of determination from 20 different schools participated in the event and Young Zara Shafiq won the Ms Talented prize. The confident Zara who sang as she strutted down the catwalk, is severely autistic. The show organisers say that before, she wouldn't make eye contact with anyone and respond only minimally to people.
Zenofer Fathima, CEO of Zen Productions and Dr Alka Kalra, founder of Eduscan Institute Group of Companies and CEO of Zen Productions, praised Zara and the other children for overriding their disabilities and showcaisng their talents beautifully.
Unlike most charity events, this festival was not about just donating money but about giving time to those who need it most. Fathima said: "I do charity work all around the world and many countries do need financial assistance as the first point of call. But in Dubai, there is financial support for these children; therefore, we wanted to give these children time and attention, as the main focus instead."
Fathima expressed surprise at how quickly the children picked up on catwalk guidance and presentation, during the show rehearsales. She said: "It really made me realise that we have such non-issues in life and these children have much bigger problems but just get on with it. We really need to stop worrying about the small things and realise how easy our obstacles are, in comparison."
Amongst other VIPS, Sheikha Hind Al Qassemi attended the show as a chief guest.
crystal@khaleejtimes.com