Disability fails to dent Emirati artist Moza Abdullah's spirit

Emirati artist Moza Abdullah has never allowed her disability to hold her back. Several years ago, she joined the Art for All Centre, known as Falaj, which is part of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS). There, she found the support she needed to develop her creative talent. Since then, she has exhibited across the emirate, gaining confidence and showing that creativity knows no limits.

Her story is one of hundreds shaped by SCHS, which has worked to empower people with disabilities for more than four decades. Through education, training and employment, it has changed lives and set an example for the wider region. 

This month, Sharjah will highlight those achievements on a global stage. From September 15 to 17, the emirate will host the World Congress 2025 "We Are Inclusion", organised by SCHS in partnership with Inclusion International and with the support of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau. The event will bring together experts and organisations from around the world to discuss key issues of integration and empowerment. 

A painting by Moza Abdullah

Since its founding in 1979, SCHS has played a leading role in the region. In 1995, it became an independent non-profit organisation by Emiri decree, expanding through 13 specialist centres and three branches in Khorfakkan, Al Dhaid and Kalba. Its programmes include early intervention, inclusive education, vocational training and assistive technology. 

Building achievements and recognition 

Over the years, SCHS has gained international recognition. It has twice earned CARF accreditation for quality and set up a Self-Advocacy Unit, giving people with disabilities a platform to speak for themselves. It also runs student and family councils and has been a pioneer in inclusive employment.

Innovation has also been central to its mission. Its Assistive Technology App Design Competition has encouraged developers to create digital tools that support independence for people with disabilities. Its long-running online magazine, Al Manal, has also helped raise awareness and shift perspectives in society. 

Nothing about us... Without us

SCHS has taken its work globally. Through conferences, workshops and knowledge exchanges, it has positioned Sharjah as a hub for advancing disability rights. Its guiding principle, “Nothing about us... Without us”, ensures people with disabilities play a direct role in decision-making, whether within the organisation or in wider policy debates. 

Looking to the future 

SCHS is focused on building a more inclusive future. It plans to expand services in Sharjah and beyond, adopt the latest training and educational technologies, and strengthen partnerships with government and private sectors. Supporting young people remains a priority, with programmes to nurture leadership and creativity and prepare them to become future innovators. 

A model for cohesive societies 

As Sharjah prepares to host the World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion”, SCHS stands as a model of how supportive policies and strong partnerships can transform lives. The stories of people such as Moza Abdullah and many others who have passed through its centres highlight a simple truth: inclusion is the cornerstone of a cohesive society that values diversity and celebrates every individual.