'Age has nothing to do with making people happy'

People in the vicinity of Sharjah Industrial Area have been waving and smiling toward Fatma Ali Ibrahim, an 82-year-old Emirati woman, who volunteers to distribute packages of Iftar meals to workers and motorists.

Fatma participates in distributing Iftar meals along with the members of Pride of Nation Voluntary Foundation that distributes Iftar meals in coordination with Sharjah Police. Despite the little difficulty in movement, Fatma insists on carrying the meals packets to be handed over to motorists and others in need.

Workers looked delighted to receive food from the hands of Fatma and hear her prayers, even though it was hard for them to understand their literal meanings. Motorists slowed down to greet her in various languages and thanking her for the noble work. They called her 'Mama' and 'Ummi' and she responded by saying 'God bless you, son'.

"As an Emirati, giving is part of my nature. I decided to do something good for the people as I enjoy looking at the smiles on their faces," Fatma said. "I don't find it difficult or strange to volunteer or work towards goodness and giving. In fact, it gives me more energy. Age has nothing to do with volunteering or doing something to make people happy. The holy month of Ramadan is the right time to help and support those in need." She resides at an elderly home in Sharjah, as she does not have children or relatives to take care of her.

"I have done a lot of charity work before, but this is my first time in volunteering to give food to those in need. I would like to devote the rest of my life volunteering in order to help others."

She urged Emirati people of all ages to get involved in voluntary works to serve communities, help needy families and workers who have worked hard to contribute to the development of this country.

Mohammed Al Mazim, chairman and founder of Pride of Nation Voluntary Foundation, a non-profitable organisation formed by a group of Emirati volunteers to do voluntary works, said: "Mama Fatma is there every day on time to carry out this hard job under the heat. She is doing it with love, caring and pleasure."

Fatma has become part of the Pride of Nation Voluntary Foundation which has more than 200 volunteers from all segments of the society.

A lot of people gather around Fatma to watch her work as she has set an example in motivating young people to engage in voluntary work. "Young people have the energy, the potential for change, the talent and skill, and the only thing they have to do is to serve their country in a spirit of loyalty and belonging."

Source: Khaleej Times