Sharjah 24: Fatima Al Matrooshi, Media Coordinator at The Big Heart Foundation, stated that the LightEd Impact Foundation, winner of the Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Suppor in its eighth edition, has made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of refugees in Nigeria.
Al Matrooshi noted that the Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support aims to honour impactful projects and initiatives that significantly address the food, health, educational, and social needs of refugees and displaced persons. The award is generously patronised by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
She told "Sharjah 24" that the award highlights the UAE's commitment to supporting initiatives that help those in need worldwide. She noted that the LightEd Impact Foundation has successfully provided solar power stations to over 26,000 beneficiaries in refugee camps and rural areas of Nigeria in just two years.
The eighth edition of the Sharjah International Award for Refugee Advocacy and Support marked a significant milestone, receiving a record 527 submissions from 53 countries this year. This reflects a substantial increase in both the number of nominations and the geographical diversity of participating organisations.
The number of nominations for the award increased by 24.6%, while the number of participating countries rose by 29.3% compared to 2023, which itself saw a 135% increase over 2022. This growth highlights the award's expanding influence and the international community's commitment to recognising and celebrating charitable and humanitarian efforts. The award specifically honours the exceptional work of non-profit organisations in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa that positively impact the lives of refugees, forcibly displaced persons, and vulnerable communities.