Emirati Women’s Day: Quiet work of mothers raising young people of determination
For some Emirati women, achievement is measured not in titles, awards or professional milestones, but in moments that others might barely notice. It can be a child’s first word, a place for them in a mainstream classroom or, years later, finding a university willing to give them a chance. Sometimes it is a boy sitting at a piano, discovering that something introduced as therapy can become a…
For some Emirati women, achievement is measured by the small, unnoticed moments in their children's lives. These could include a child's first word, their integration into a mainstream classroom or, years later, being accepted by a university. The UAE has extended Emirati Women's Day into a month-long celebration, running until September 28 under the theme "We Emerge Stronger and Better."
The National spoke to mothers of people of determination about the achievements that are intensely personal and often hard-won. These women have faced challenges such as understanding diagnoses, learning about unfamiliar therapies, and fighting for their children's education alongside their peers. They have also witnessed their children being stared at, misunderstood, and bullied.
Fatema Ali Suelleiman, a mother of two children both classified as people of determination, has fought for her son Mohammed's and daughter Salama's opportunities. Mohammed has an intellectual disability and speech difficulties, while Salama was born with Trisomy 9, a rare chromosomal disorder. Despite facing significant bullying and difficulties gaining acceptance by universities, Fatema remains determined to secure a place for Mohammed in higher education, as she believes he has something to offer if given the chance.
Mariam Kouraichi's journey with her son Zayed began when his speech development changed significantly around 18 months. He began walking on tiptoes, lining objects up, and struggled to express himself, which led Mariam to suspect he may have autism. Zayed was diagnosed at age three, and his mother educated herself about the condition while he continued therapy.
She recalls watching people stare when her son was younger, but she stopped caring as long as she saw her child as a blessing from God. During the pandemic, Mariam discovered that Zayed's weak fine motor skills could be improved through playing the piano. Initially, this was a form of therapy, but it eventually became a significant talent that has made him stand out.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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