There is no doubt that a person’s perception and mindset toward a particular issue will influence how they deal with it—whether positively or negatively, with acceptance or rejection, and with surrender or determination. God has tested some individuals with physical challenges, and each has responded in a way that aligns with their outlook on life. Some have faced these challenges head-on and overcome them, while others have succumbed to despair, believing it to be the end of their journey.
This concept, historically known as “physical disability,” represents a crossroads where individuals must choose their path. They can either surrender, believing their challenge has extinguished their ambitions and halted their progress, or they can rise with courage, turning their challenge into a driving force to prove themselves and achieve their goals. Relying on God for strength and holding onto the beacon of hope, they become an inspiration to others, lighting the path for those who follow. This can only be achieved when they see their challenge as a reason to leave a lasting mark on society—a society that, in turn, bears the responsibility of supporting its members with determination and guiding them toward a brighter future.
Thus, a society’s commitment to supporting people of determination, empowering them in political, social, economic, and educational fields, and providing them with the necessary resources is a hallmark of civilization, a testament to humanity at its finest, and a source of pride for any progressive nation. In this regard, the United Arab Emirates stands out as a leading advocate for people of determination across all domains. This is a country deeply rooted in values of compassion and solidarity, where social cohesion thrives on kindness and support.
The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace, firmly established the principles of empowering and supporting people of determination. He emphasized the importance of integrating them into society and mobilizing efforts to include them in various national programs and sectors, such as sports, quality of life, education, employment, international representation, health, culture, service innovation, and media. During his leadership, the UAE devoted significant resources to their support, ensuring they enjoyed opportunities across all fields.
When discussing people of determination, we must recall the inspiring words of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who has consistently championed their cause. In launching the comprehensive Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination 2020-2024, he declared:
“Caring for people of determination and providing them with comprehensive support in line with the highest global standards is at the heart of the UAE’s plans and programs to empower them. Our goal is for them to be productive, contributing members of their country, as they are an integral and essential part of our society. Supporting and caring for them is both a duty and a responsibility.”
It is no exaggeration to say that much of the resilience and determination demonstrated by people of determination comes from the society that supports them—both financially and emotionally. Words hold immense power, and when they come from a nation’s leader, they carry even greater weight.
Furthermore, it is essential to highlight that the term “People of Determination” was introduced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in April 2017. With his visionary insight, he understood that empowering this group begins with transforming how they perceive themselves and how society views them. The term “People of Determination” embodies perseverance, willpower, and the courage to overcome challenges. It instills self-confidence and an unwavering resolve to achieve the impossible. His words are a testament to this spirit of empowerment:
“A person’s true disability lies in stagnation, in remaining in place without progress, and in failing to achieve. The accomplishments of People of Determination over the years prove that determination and willpower can make the impossible possible. These qualities empower individuals to face all circumstances and challenges with resilience and steadfastness, ultimately achieving their goals and aspirations.”
