A nation that gives you wings
Just like how it is across the world, here in the UAE too National Day is a matter of pride. Apart from the renewed sense of patriotism it ignites among the UAE nationals as well as among all of us expats who think of this country as home, it is that time of the year when we recount the phenomenal progress the country has made in every aspect.
But I am not going to focus on the bigger picture of this progress for now. Instead I am going to talk about Wafaa Ramadan, a young Emirati woman who has decided to dedicate her life to scientific research in the field of breast cancer (read all about her on page 32).
It is no mean achievement when you understand Wafaa’s background. The fact that she belongs to a family where formal education was never a priority, not even among men; where women were expected to get married, not step out of the house and pursue a career in a male-dominated world.
To me Wafaa is a living example of the progress this country has made in terms of mindset. From a society that had a conservative viewpoint, which did not encourage women to freely choose their path, to becoming a nation that offers a plethora of opportunities, support system and infrastructure to both men and women to develop and realise their passions, the UAE and its illustrious people have come a long way.
However, policies alone cannot bring about change. It needs the right impetus from sons and daughters of the soil; for them to be the torchbearers of a more modern outlook that puts the spotlight on merit and sincere hard work.
Wafaa is a product of that paradigm shift at the national as well as at the individual level. She is the face of the courageous and bold generation that is not scared to test its wings and soar to new heights.
As we celebrate UAE’s 48th National Day, let us acknowledge, appreciate and applaud this small country with a big vision for itself and for its people.
Policies alone cannot bring about change. It needs the right impetus from sons and daughters of the soil; for them to be the torchbearers of a more modern outlook