Mohammed Ben Sulayem today put his record-setting driving skills behind a UAE campaign to help persons with special needs achieve their full potential.
On this occasion the emphasis was on awareness, rather than speed, as the 14-times Middle East rally champion made a guest appearance during a fun-filled activity day for special needs children and their families.
Taking place at the Emirates Motorplex, Umm Al Quwain, under the patronage of H.H.Sheikh Marwan bin Rashid Al Mualla, the Kruse Kids Day linked schools and support groups from around the UAE.
Sulayem, President of the Emirates Automobile and Touring Club, joined volunteer drivers giving fun runs to special needs children in vehicles donated for the day by a variety of car clubs and enthusiasts.
“It’s so good to see the children enjoying themselves like this,” he said. “I’m very happy to be supporting an event which is not only bringing a lot of pleasure to them and their families, but it also creating more awareness of their needs.
“We all have a duty to be more understanding and tolerant of people from all age groups with special needs. The Disability Awareness Programme which is behind this day deserves the support of communities throughout the Emirates.”
Sponsored by Kruse International, the Kruse Kids Day is part of a year-round programme of fund-raising and awareness events organised within the Disability Awareness Programme
Driven by parents and other volunteers, the programme is aimed at influencing UAE communities to recognise the talents and qualities of those who find it difficult to become involved in activities of interest due to the lack of opportunity.
It works towards persuading professionals in IT, music, art, dance and drama to open timetables and provide classes aimed specifically towards those with special needs.
Another aim is to provide internationally based programmes in vocational training which will allow special needs youngsters to develop their talents and skills and help them learn a trade where they can enter the workforce with confidence.
The overall goal is to ensure that each individual is given an equal right to reach their full potential and go on to lead an independent lifestyle.
Kids Day sponsor Kruse International is one of the world's leading auction firms and the largest collector car auction company, selling more vintage cars than all other firms combined. The company plans to open an office in the Middle East in the near future.
