‘Sharjah Talks’ explores contribution of sports to elevate individuals and communities

Sharjah: The Sharjah Talks, organized by the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) in collaboration with the Sharjah Government Employees Club, highlighted the crucial link between sports and well-being. The event, held at the Padel Arena, explored the multifaceted benefits of sports beyond physical fitness, emphasizing its role in fostering self-regulation, commitment, and determination.

The inaugural Sharjah Talks, under the theme “The Correlation Between Sport and Well-being: Connecting Mind, Body, and Soul,” featured insightful discussions and panels with notable speakers. The focus was on how sports positively impact mental and psychological well-being, serving as an indicator for societal awareness, effectiveness, productivity, and participation in development.

The first panel discussion, “The Role of Sports Institutions in Elevating Physical Awareness Outside the Official Courts,” included Brigadier Dr. Abdullah Abdul Rahman Yousef bin Sultan, Saud bin Ruken, and Dr. Ibrahim Mustafa Abu Amer. They discussed the contribution of sports to reducing crime, enhancing happiness, and creating a positive lifestyle, especially among women and girls.

Dr. Ibrahim Mustafa emphasized that sports are a necessity, not a luxury, essential for the health and development of children and adolescents. He highlighted the role of physical activity in strengthening the immune system, promoting mental capacity, and preventing various health complications associated with sedentary lifestyles.

Saud bin Ruken emphasized the growing popularity of Padel, a fast-growing sport in the UAE, known for its physical and mental benefits. He highlighted the government’s significant support, including the establishment of a Padel Federation and national teams.

The second panel, “Empowering Lives Through Sport: Unveiling Personal Journeys Transformations,” featured Amal Bin Haider, Abdulla Al Eissaee, and Nouf Omar. Amal shared her inspirational journey of overcoming alopecia through sports, emphasizing determination and positive thinking.

Abdulla Al Eissaee, an amputee and skiing enthusiast, shared his story of resilience after a painful accident. He transformed the challenges into opportunities, joining the UAE skiing team and inspiring others to overcome obstacles through sports.

Nouf Omar emphasized the importance of time management and prioritizing sports as a key element in life. She sees sports as an investment, providing energy, determination, and confidence, contributing to success in various aspects of life.

The Sharjah Talks underscored the transformative power of sports, not just for physical well-being but also for mental resilience, personal growth, and societal development.

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