New strategy reinforces Sharjah’s unrivalled dedication to women in sport

Sharjah, 17 January, 2017:  The Sharjah Women Sports Foundation (SWSF) is being been held up as a shining example of the new strategy to promote women’s sports in the UAE in general and in Sharjah in particular. The foundation is also aiming to highlight the role of the nation’s sportswomen in a regional and global arena, empowering them and enabling them to take part in international championships and events.

In line with the directives of the wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA) and Chairperson of SWSF, the new strategy will focus on raising awareness of women’s sport among the community. It will develop and promote interest and ambition as well as enhance administrative, logistical and event management skills according to the best international practices.

The SWSF unveiled its emblem which includes three Arabic letters; the letter ‘Sh’ stands for ‘Sharjah’ and is coloured red to symbolise willpower, strength and determination; coloured blue to symbolise health, loyalty and liveliness, the letter ‘M’ stands for ‘Woman’; and the yellow-coloured letter ‘R’ stands for ‘Sport’, symbolising ambition, hope, joy and positivity.

Nada Askar Al Naqbi, Director General of the SWSF, stressed that the announcement of implementing the new strategy was in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the directives of Her Highness Sheikh Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, to elevate women’s sports, empower women to compete in regional and international sports events, and achieve glory in sports for themselves, their families, society and country.

“The SWSF seeks to serve the sport sector in all aspects, and reinforce both the ongoing progress and continuing success of women’s sports that has resulted from the support of the wise leadership. Sharjah has become one of the favourite women’s sports destinations in the region and plays host to a growing number of the most prestigious competitions, given the resounding success of the Arab Women Sport Tournament (AWST), which has been hosted in Sharjah for three consecutive years,” she said.

Al Naqbi pointed out that the outstanding achievements in women’s sports, in particular Emirati women, were among the main reasons for establishing the SWSF. The foundation will create a generation of athletes, encourage sporting leadership, and train, develop and attract sports staff. It will also spread awareness about the significance of women’s sports among the community, and create a stimulating sports environment.