After receiving the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity in 2023, Shamsa Abubakar Fahdil, widely known as Mama Shamsa, put her $1 million prize to meaningful use.
She launched the Zayed Micro-enterprise Seed Support Grant initiative in Kenya, aiming to provide counselling, skills training, and resources to help individuals build sustainable livelihoods and move away from the influence of extremism. This program has already impacted the lives of over 4,000 people.
Honoring Sheikh Zayed’s Legacy
“You don’t need to visit the UAE to understand the humanitarian legacy and vision of Sheikh Zayed,” Mama Shamsa shared. “I named the grant program after him because his influence is felt not just in Africa but across the world.”
The grant supports diverse projects, including food and water distribution, waste management, and tree planting. Beyond this, Mama Shamsa focuses on empowering women and young people by creating a supportive environment where they can access opportunities, build resilience, and form a sense of belonging.
Transforming Lives
Mama Shamsa’s work is rooted in personal stories of change. She recounted a 15-year-old single mother in Kenya who joined the program after facing rejection and stigma. Through make-up training, the young woman gained confidence, started a small business, and now mentors others in similar situations.
This is just one example of the ripple effect created by the initiative, which provides not only skills but also hope and a path toward self-reliance.
From Kenya to the UAE: A Life-Changing Connection
In 2023, Mama Shamsa’s relationship with the UAE began unexpectedly with a phone call informing her of her Zayed Award win. Initially skeptical, she later described the experience as life-changing: “I thought it was a scam, but speaking to the judges gave me a sense of peace and gratitude. It felt like an answer to my prayers.”
The UAE, which she now calls her “second home,” holds a special place in her heart. Her connection to Sheikh Zayed’s vision dates back to her experiences at Sheikh Zayed schools in Kenya. These institutions, offering education and healthcare, left a lasting impression on her and inspired her commitment to community upliftment.
A Vision for Change
In her community, single mothers and divorcees often face stigma, while young people lack role models and financial support. Mama Shamsa focuses her efforts on these groups, empowering them to strengthen their families and communities.
She believes that the teachings of Sheikh Zayed, whom she credits as a beacon of hope, continue to guide her work.
“Sheikh Zayed gave us a candle of hope, and it’s our duty to share that light with others,” she said.
