Photo: Wam/Twitter
Abu Dhabi - The tribute video marks the third anniversary of the Founder's Memorial, which was established on February 26, 2018.
The UAE has always valued its youth — an approach that goes all the way back to the late Sheikh Zayed's vision, going by the latest tribute video to the beloved founding father.
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State news agency Wam released heartwarming footage of the late visionary on Friday to mark the third anniversary of the Founder's Memorial, which was established on February 26, 2018.
The video contained several clips of the former leader offering words of wisdom. "This generation of youth understands [the] culture to achieve new heights for our nation that we could not have imagined," he is seen saying at one point. "We must support this generation, whatever it takes, and provide them with everything they need."
Reflecting on the UAE's journey, he was seen saying, "Our journey is rapid and always moving forward to reach pinnacles of our potential... for the betterment of all in this nation. We need to sacrifice and invest in matters that benefit the nation and its people, and [that] raise the level of this nation to an ability in which it is beneficial to others."
Since its inception, the Founder’s Memorial has provided a focal point where the UAE and international visitors can learn about and reflect on the life, legacy, and values of the late Sheikh Zayed through a series of personal encounters that reveal aspects of him as both a man and a leader.
The video is a walk down memory lane, depicting the late Ruler engaging in traditional Emirati dances, interacting with children, overseeing development projects, and more.
One clip reveals the erstwhile ruler's experiences with naysayers. "When we started, the experts never believed that some of our land would be good for agriculture," he said. "We succeeded and everything we planted grew. Every good seed that we planted has prospered for the benefit of our people and our nation."
A final word has to do with the UAE's rich heritage. "We must protect our heritage so our next generations don't forget or neglect the past," he shared. "They must remember their past so the present can exist."
Located near Abu Dhabi Corniche, the Memorial welcomes visitors daily from 9am to 10pm. However, under current circumstances, visitors must make pre-reservations and obtain access passes online.
Karen Ann Monsy is Associate Editor, overseeing digital operations in the newsroom. She sees the world through headlines and SEO keywords - and loves building people and teams.