Archives: Press Release

The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) has announced the launch of the second edition of its Ramadan campaign, “For Gaza,” building on the initiative introduced last Ramadan to support orphaned children in the Gaza Strip. This year, the campaign focuses on Palestinian amputee children, as more than 1,000 registered children remain in urgent need of prosthetic limbs and specialized rehabilitation services.

The campaign seeks to provide a comprehensive and sustained care pathway that includes custom prosthetic limbs, physical rehabilitation, and psychological and social support. It is implemented in partnership with Palestine’s Taawon Foundation, TBHF’s long-standing humanitarian partner, ensuring that assistance is delivered through trusted local institutions with the capacity to provide specialized and continuous care.

The initiative builds on TBHF’s ongoing humanitarian commitment and follows the success of the “For Gaza” campaign launched by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, during Ramadan 2025. That campaign raised more than AED 10 million and provided sustainable care for over 555 orphaned children in Gaza for a minimum of three years, reflecting the Foundation’s belief that humanitarian work must extend beyond immediate relief to create lasting, dignified impact.

Zakat-eligible campaign

TBHF confirmed that children supported through this year’s “For Gaza” campaign fall within zakat-eligible categories in accordance with Islamic guidelines. The Foundation emphasized that all donations are directed entirely to beneficiaries, with no administrative or operational deductions, in line with its principles of transparency and accountability.

The Foundation calls upon individuals and institutions to contribute through direct donations or community-led fundraising initiatives, helping ensure that children regain mobility, independence, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity.

H.E. Alya Obaid Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, said: “Our decision to continue the ‘For Gaza’ campaign reflects a sustained commitment to children whose lives have been profoundly affected by conflict. Amputee children face complex physical, psychological, and social challenges that require more than short-term assistance. They require structured, long-term support that restores mobility, safeguards dignity, and enables them to move forward with confidence. The situation in Gaza demands a response that transitions from emergency relief to durable, human-centered recovery.”

She added: “Last year, the community of the United Arab Emirates demonstrated a powerful spirit of solidarity, as individuals and institutions united around a shared humanitarian purpose and created tangible impact in the lives of vulnerable children. Building on that collective commitment, we aim this year to expand access to specialized services, strengthen local rehabilitation capacity, and contribute to a sustainable system of care that allows children to grow, learn, and actively participate in their communities.”

Comprehensive pathway from treatment to recovery

Custom prosthetic limbs cost approximately AED 8,500, while comprehensive rehabilitation therapy costs around AED 12,500, in addition to AED 2,500 for assistive devices and AED 1,500 for mental health and psychosocial support.

In total, a complete amputation care pathway—from initial intervention to full rehabilitation—amounts to approximately AED 25,000 per child. This includes periodic follow-up and prosthetic adjustments to accommodate the child’s growth until the age of 18.

Individuals and institutions can support the campaign by making direct donations through The Big Heart Foundation’s website (tbhf.ae) or by launching dedicated fundraising pages via Yalla Give. Additional donation channels include bank transfers to account number 002-430430-0011 at Sharjah Islamic Bank, cheque payments, cash contributions at the Foundation’s headquarters, and SMS donations. These mechanisms aim to unify community efforts and extend support to as many children as possible.

These efforts respond to extremely challenging healthcare conditions in Gaza, where only a limited number of specialized medical centers remain operational amid severe shortages of equipment and personnel. Currently, only eight prosthetics specialists remain in Gaza, and just two main centers are able to provide these critical services. The campaign seeks to strengthen these centers and enhance their capacity to deliver specialized care to children in need.

Taawon Foundation serves as TBHF’s primary field partner in this campaign. One of Palestine’s leading humanitarian organizations, Taawon brings more than a decade of field expertise and operates through a collaborative model that empowers local professionals to lead rehabilitation and healthcare services, reinforcing long-term sustainability and community resilience.

The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), a global humanitarian organization based in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, has inaugurated the newly reconstructed and expanded Emergency and Trauma Unit at the Saint George Hospital University Medical Centre (SGHUMC) in Beirut (Yesterday).

Funded by a USD 2.36 million (AED 8.7 million) contribution from TBHF’s “Salam Beirut” campaign, the project has reconstructed facilities in Lebanon’s oldest and most revered medical institution, severely damaged in the catastrophic 2020 Beirut Port explosion. The inauguration signifies an important step in restoring critical healthcare access for thousands, and underscores the power of international solidarity in crisis response.

The reconstructed unit now boasts state-of-the-art medical equipment, expanded capacity, enhanced trauma care facilities, and a new paediatric section; enabling SGHUMC to operate at full capacity for the first time since the blast. Expected to serve over 40,000 patients annually, the facility is a significant step forward in strengthening Beirut’s healthcare capabilities.

Sharjah supports Beirut’s recovery efforts after the 2020 port blast

The Port of Beirut explosion claimed over 150 lives, injured thousands, and displaced nearly 300,000 residents; and among the hardest-hit institutions was SGHUMC, a 147-year-old pillar of Lebanon’s healthcare system, which sustained extensive structural and operational damage.

Sharjah’s response, following the compassionate and visionary leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of TBHF, and UNHCR’s first Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children, TBHF launched the “Salam Beirut” campaign, raising over 30 million AED to aid recovery efforts. The reconstruction of SGHUMC’s Emergency and Trauma (ERT) Centre has been one of the major accomplishments of the campaign.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by His Eminence Metropolitan Elias Audi, Archbishop of Beirut and its Dependencies; H.E. Mariam Al Hammadi, Member of the Advisory Board of TBHF; H.E. Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF; Dr. Marwan Najjar, SGHUMC Chief Executive Officer; and Dr. Salah Chouairi, SGHUMC Chief Medical Officer; H.E. Fahad Salem Al Kaabi, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Lebanon; alongside other important figureheads from both TBHF and SGHUMC as well as healthcare leaders, diplomats, and regional partners.

H.E. Alya Al Musaiebi, TBHF Director: Humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in dignity

At the inauguration ceremony, H.E. Alya Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, reaffirmed Sharjah’s long-term friendship with Lebanon, praising the strength of its people. “This initiative carries a message of love and solidarity from Sharjah, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, and our Chairperson, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher, to the people of Lebanon who have always faced adversity with resilience and pride”, she noted.

TBHF Director continued: “The reconstructed and expanded ERT Centre at SGHUMC symbolizes our belief that humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in the dignity of those we serve. The devastation caused by the Port of Beirut explosion was not just structural—it was deeply human, and our response through ‘Salam Beirut’ was committed to investing in systems that give people back not just services, but stability and self-worth. Today, we are not simply inaugurating a project; we are standing beside a community and investing in its future.”

Dr. Joseph Wehbe, Chief of Staff and Head of the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Saint George University Hospital : This project goes beyond rebuilding—it restores hope to Beirut.

Dr. Joseph Wehbe, Chief of Staff and Head of the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Saint George University Hospital, said: “The rehabilitation, restoration, and expansion of the Emergency and Trauma Unit marks a moment of great pride for everyone at Saint George University Hospital. The hospital was among the most severely affected institutions by the tragic explosion that rocked the Port of Beirut, resulting in a complete shutdown for the first time since its founding in 1878. Despite the magnitude of the disaster, our determination never wavered. Through the dedication and perseverance of our medical and administrative teams, we managed to resume operations via a temporary emergency unit within a record time of just two weeks.”

He added: “Today, thanks to the generous support of The Big Heart Foundation, and under the guidance of its Chairperson, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, we inaugurate a fully developed and advanced emergency unit equipped to the highest medical and technical standards—ready to resume its vital role in serving over 40,000 patients annually. This project is not merely about rebuilding a medical facility; it represents a noble humanitarian message and restores hope to the people of Beirut.”

After the speeches and ribbon-cutting, guests received a guided tour of the ERT Centre and viewed a documentary illustrating the journey from devastation to renewal. A commemorative plaque honouring TBHF was unveiled, symbolizing SGHUMC’s appreciation for their crucial support. The event ended with a reception attended by healthcare leaders, diplomats, and regional partners, united in their commitment to rebuilding Lebanon with dignity and hope.

Originally announced in December 2020 as part of TBHF’s “Salam Beirut” campaign, the reconstruction of the Emergency and Trauma Unit was set to be completed within a few months. However, the aftermath of the Beirut Port explosion coincided with the global COVID-19 crisis, leading to necessary delays as parts of the hospital were repurposed to treat urgent cases during the pandemic. Throughout this period, SGHUMC remained steadfast in its service to the community by establishing a temporary emergency facility that continued to provide life-saving care.

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council (Irthi) and The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), witnessed the launch of the exclusive luxury jewellery collection ‘Precious Heart’, which is a collaborative effort between Irthi, TBHF, and the British luxury jewellery house Asprey. All proceeds from the collection will go entirely towards supporting TBHF’s humanitarian projects and initiatives for refugees, displaced individuals, and vulnerable communities worldwide.

Inspired by the Emirati craft of Talli, the collection features 20 pieces of jewellery made from high-purity imperial jadeite, with an estimated total value of £9.7 million. Imperial jadeite, the central element of the collection, is a rare and highly valuable type of jade known for its rich emerald-green hue. The collection also includes diamonds, amethysts, and natural pearls, and consists of rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, and beaded jadeite necklaces, all set in 18-karat gold and adorned with precious stones.

​​During her opening speech, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher highlighted that Sharjah, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has always aimed to build organizations that extend beyond administrative bodies providing living projects rooted in values and reflecting the emirate’s culture of giving, cooperation, as well as the safeguarding human dignity.

Humanitarian giving is the common ground / an alliance for good and creativity

Her Highness said: “Since the very first event organised by our first organization, we made it a condition that every beauty-focused initiative must be paired with a charitable cause that serves a community in need — and this belief has never changed. Through this, we established a culture that distinguishes our organizations and created a humanitarian dimension to our gatherings and events, one that engages with global issues and challenges, and contributes to shaping a more just and compassionate future.”

“This collaboration between Irthi, The Big Heart Foundation, and Asprey demonstrates the value of unified efforts and shared resources in continuing to support noble humanitarian causes. When one party carries the legacy of heritage, another champions humanitarian responsibility, and a third the excellence of design, their partnership becomes a creative humanitarian initiative which is now embodied in the ‘Precious Heart’ collection. This reflects the role of art as a means of empowerment and a goodwill tool,” Her Highness concluded.

Her Highness also attended the opening of a silent charity auction for the collection, held at The Chedi Al Bait Hotel in Sharjah. Running until May 19, it offers a unique opportunity to acquire limited-edition pieces that merge the refined craftsmanship of an iconic global brand with the cultural identity of the UAE and a noble humanitarian mission. For participation and further information in the exclusive auction, please contact the Irthi team at +971 54 345 0036.

Royal legacy and an exclusive collection

The agreement underpinning the collaboration between Irthi, TBHF, and Asprey was signed in London in 2024, establishing a unique global model for partnerships between craft organizations, humanitarian organizations, and luxury brands; all in aid of supporting noble causes. Asprey donated 1,000 grams of high-purity imperial jadeite, initially expected to produce 12 pieces valued at £4 million. However, due to the exceptional clarity of the jadeite; containing only 7% impurities compared to the typical 40%; the material yielded 20 pieces, raising the collection’s total estimated value.

A partnership that weaves a noble impact

John Rigas, CEO of Asprey, commented: “Our shared values of sustainability, craftsmanship, and humanitarian service are fully aligned. We are proud to collaborate with Irthi and The Big Heart Foundation on this unique collection, which honors Emirati heritage while making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.”

Partnerships rooted in heritage and reflecting human values

H.E. Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, stressed that Sheikha Jawaher’s leadership ensured the council’s initiatives had global reach and meaningful humanitarian impact. “Heritage reflects a nation’s shared values and cultural foundations. Her Highness’s support has enabled Irthi to build strategic partnerships with some of the world’s most respected brands, driven by our shared belief that art is a noble message and a universal language that can empower communities and cultivate compassion. Inspired by the traditional Emirati Talli craft, the ‘Precious Heart’ collection showcases our efforts to preserve and reinterpret our cultural heritage through contemporary design,” BinKaram noted.

Empowering communities through creativity and humanitarian work

H.E Alya Obaid Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, emphasised that the most important lesson from Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher’s approach is that the sustainability of humanitarian work is not measured solely by the longevity of programmes but by the depth of their impact on people’s lives and the inspiration they offer to institutions across sectors. “The partnership between TBHF, Asprey, and Irthi is an example of sustainable collaboration and a creative model for mobilising resources and investing in art and craftsmanship to serve humanity. This is the true purpose of art and the role of heritage to serve as tools for change and aspirations toward a world where human dignity and rights are protected.”

The ‘Precious Heart’ collection represents the vision of Sharjah and the UAE, blending authenticity and modernity, beauty and creativity, and a commitment to meaningful humanitarian change. It also invites institutions and companies worldwide to contribute to efforts that create a lasting impact for individuals and communities alike.

Under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), the Foundation has announced the implementation of three critical humanitarian and developmental projects in Zanzibar with a total funding of AED 7 million. These projects reflect TBHF’s strategic expansion across the African continent and aim to address pressing challenges in education, health services, and socio-economic empowerment.

The announcement follows Her Highness’s official visit to Zanzibar in the United Republic of Tanzania last year, during which she assessed the developmental needs of local communities. TBHF will implement the projects in collaboration with Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation and Save the Children, aiming to impact more than 82,440 direct and indirect beneficiaries through a comprehensive plan to foster long-term social and economic development.

A vision of sustainable humanitarianism

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi’s leadership continues to shape TBHF’s humanitarian approach and its initiatives in Zanzibar. During her September 2024 visit, Her Highness met with Her Excellency Maryam Mwinyi, First Lady of Zanzibar and President of Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation, who later visited Sharjah in February 2025 to engage with key institutions led by Her Highness and to explore Sharjah’s pioneering model of inclusive social development.

The two leaders discussed opportunities for collaboration to empower women and youth, recognising Sharjah’s global reputation as a developmental model rooted in human capital, skills development, and community-based institutions. The newly announced projects directly support this vision by contributing to Zanzibar’s national development agenda and the long-term sustainability of its social infrastructure.

Alya Obaid Al Musaeibi, Director of TBHF, stated: “At The Big Heart Foundation, we believe that humanitarian action should extend beyond emergency aid to create sustainable impact. These projects – in education, sanitation, and economic empowerment – reflect our commitment to long-term solutions, particularly those that uplift women and youth. By working with trusted local partners, we are ensuring that our support translates into meaningful, measurable change for individuals and communities.”

Economic empowerment of women and youth through seaweed farming

Over a one-year implementation period, TBHF will partner with the Zanzibar “Maisha Bora Foundation”, chaired by the First Lady of Zanzibar, to launch a social and economic empowerment programme benefiting 200 women and youth involved in seaweed farming.

The initiative includes training in sustainable farming techniques, marketing strategies, and contract farming models to enhance productivity and secure income stability. It also aims to raise product quality standards and integrate small-scale producers into local and international markets. By boosting the value-added seaweed industry and linking it to the broader blue economy, the programme enhances the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises and contributes to Zanzibar’s sustainable economic development.

Clean and inclusive school environments for Zanzibar students

To strengthen school infrastructure, TBHF has previously announced it’s collaboration with Save the Children to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities across four districts: Unguja, Kaskazini A & Kati, Pemba, Micheweni, and Mkoani. Over 18 months, this initiative will directly benefit 21,173 students and indirectly impact over 42,346 community members.

The project includes the construction of 20 sanitation blocks (comprising 128 toilets) across 12 of 28 primary schools, designed to be age-appropriate, gender-segregated, and accessible for students with disabilities. It also provides hygiene kits and delivers health education sessions focused on menstrual hygiene management for girls, helping to reduce absenteeism and support uninterrupted education.

Upgrading schools into modern learning hubs

In a parallel 18-month programme with Save the Children, TBHF will rehabilitate Ghana Primary School and Shwaka Primary School to transform them into model institutions that provide equitable access to high-quality education.

The project will benefit 1,114 students at Ghana School and 957 at Shwaka, with additional outreach to 16,848 students from neighbouring schools. The schools will be upgraded with modern classrooms, libraries, science and ICT labs, and sports facilities. The initiative will also promote digital learning and skill-building to prepare students for future challenges.

TBHF’s ongoing commitment to Africa

Over the past decade, TBHF has launched 179 humanitarian projects across Africa, benefiting more than 1.4 million people in Tanzania, Somaliland, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Sudan, Mozambique, and Swaziland. Previous projects in Zanzibar include the Big Heart Mobile Medical Clinic, launched in 2024 to serve 20,000 patients annually, and a sanitation improvement initiative across 12 schools.

The new initiatives deepen TBHF’s role as a key catalyst of sustainable development in Africa, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

With these expanded efforts, TBHF continues to drive forward a people-centred model of change—one that empowers communities and builds a future of opportunity for generations to come.

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), and UNHCR Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children, emphasized that uniting communities to save children affected by war is not merely a passing act of kindness or temporary aid. Rather, it is an investment in humanity’s shared future—an assertion to the world that compassion triumphs over destruction and that we refuse to leave children abandoned in their suffering, anywhere in the world.

Her Highness stated: “Children who endure the severe horrors and atrocities of war will carry lasting scars that may never fade. Their memories are weighed down by fear, the loss of parents, siblings, and loved ones, and the devastation of the only world they knew. This is where the world must step in—not only to provide material aid but to counter these traumatic memories with love, care, and protection, demonstrating to them that there are people who will never abandon them. These children have lost everything—their physical and emotional sanctuary has been shattered—and they need all possible support to rebuild their lives.”

She continued: “From this unwavering commitment comes the launch of the ‘For Gaza’ campaign, built on the contributions of dedicated donors and global partners. It aims to rebuild what has been broken in the hearts of these innocent children—those we see daily in the media, whose stories of resilience and dreams inspire the world. They are proof that rebuilding humanity should be our highest priority, for human dignity surpasses any material reconstruction effort.”

Her Highness’s remarks came as she launched the humanitarian campaign “For Gaza” in partnership with Palestine’s Tawoon Foundation, aimed at collecting zakat and charitable donations during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The campaign seeks to provide comprehensive care and support for over 20,000 orphaned children in Gaza, in response to the dire humanitarian crisis they face after losing their parents. The initiative ensures their right to education, healthcare (including psychological support), proper nutrition, and safe shelter until they reach 18 years of age.

Donation channels: Bank transfers, cheques, cash, SMS, and online contributions

Through this campaign, donors can contribute any amount or select from structured sponsorship packages. A donation of $167 (approximately AED 625) supports one orphan for a month, while $2,000 (approximately AED 7,500) sponsors an orphan for a year. A contribution of $10,000 (approximately AED 37,500) provides care and support for an orphan for five years, whereas $20,000 (approximately AED 75,000) secures the care and well-being of an orphan for ten years. The campaign highlights that every contribution, regardless of size, makes a difference—helping extend support to more orphans and providing them with essential care and protection.

Kiswat Eid: Bringing joy to Gaza’s orphans

For the first time, TBHF’s annual ‘Kiswat Eid’ initiative will be dedicated to the same orphans supported by the campaign. The initiative seeks to bring joy to their hearts during Eid Al-Fitr, allowing donors to sponsor Eid clothing for an orphan in Gaza by donating AED 200. TBHF will ensure these donations are distributed in partnership with Al-Faris Al-Shahim, providing the children with clothing and shoes to celebrate Eid in dignity and happiness.

How to donate

Donations can be made through several approved channels to ensure aid reaches the orphans directly. Contributions can be made via bank transfers to account number 0011-430430-002 at Sharjah Islamic Bank, cheque payments to The Big Heart Foundation, and cash donations at TBHF’s headquarters. SMS donations and online contributions through TBHF’s designated campaign portal at https://tbhf.ae/ramadan-2025/ are also available. Companies and organizations interested in contributing can discuss support options by contacting +971 50 535 0152.

Responding to a humanitarian crisis

The campaign addresses the severe humanitarian crises facing orphans in Gaza, including acute food shortages, loss of shelter, the spread of chronic diseases, psychological trauma caused by the loss of parents and the horrors of war, and the lack of education and access to medical and psychological care.

45,000 orphaned children in Gaza

The importance of the “For Gaza” campaign is underscored by the staggering number of orphans in Gaza, with approximately 45,000 orphaned children. As of August 2024, 20,000 children were registered as orphans, and 25,000 children became orphans as a direct result of the war on Gaza. Many children now fall under the category of “Injured Child with No Surviving Family” (WCNSF).

“Be there for them” – A call to action

TBHF calls upon philanthropists, humanitarian organizations, government entities, civil society groups, and private sector companies to support the “For Gaza” campaign. This initiative provides Gaza’s orphaned children with critical support, ensuring access to food, education, healthcare, and psychological care, helping them build a more secure and stable future.

Strategic partnership with Palestinian civil society organizations

TBHF is implementing the “For Gaza” campaign in partnership with Tawoon Foundation, one of Palestine’s leading humanitarian organizations. Tawoon has launched the Noor Gaza Orphan Care Program in collaboration with Bank of Palestine Group, providing continuous care for orphaned children from birth until the age of 18 under the motto: “In the darkest moments of their lives, be the light for Gaza’s orphans.”

With $7.1 million already raised, the program has delivered critical aid to over 11,000 orphans and aims to raise $377 million to secure long-term support for Gaza’s most vulnerable children.

This partnership reflects TBHF’s commitment to sustainable and impactful aid, ensuring that donations reach those in need through trusted organizations with a proven track record in orphan care. By working with experienced local partners, TBHF guarantees maximum impact, directing contributions towards programs that offer a safe environment, education, and healthcare, helping children rebuild their lives and overcome the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Under the esteemed presence of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) and Founder and Chairperson of the Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council (Irthi), the iconic British luxury brand Asprey has partnered with Irthi and TBHF to unveil an exclusive jewellery collection,Precious Heart. This collection, crafted with rare imperial jadeite, seamlessly blends the rich heritage of Emirati craftsmanship with Asprey’s unparalleled legacy of luxury. All proceeds from this remarkable collaboration will be channelled towards supporting TBHF’s transformative humanitarian projects around the world.

The collaboration was officially set in motion with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Asprey flagship store in London.

Asprey will donate a rare 1kg piece of imperial jadeite, which will be meticulously carved into a limited series of jewellery pieces whose Emirati-inspired aesthetic will be guided by Irthi’s experienced design consultants.

To be launched in 2025, the exclusive collection will include a beaded jadeite necklace, jadeite pendants, and a hinged bangle, all set with diamonds and gold. The collection is expected to generate a substantial revenue, with an estimated value exceeding £4 million.

Sheikha Jawaher commended Asprey  for their remarkable initiative and generous contribution towards supporting TBHF’s humanitarian efforts, as well as their collaboration with Irthi to include a special symbolic touch to the collection, which reflects the rich heritage of Emirati craftsmanship and the shared commitment to making a global humanitarian impact through art and design. Her Highness has also emphasized the importance of such partnerships in raising awareness and contributing to meaningful change in the lives of those in need around the world.

Her Highness emphasized that the challenging circumstances facing many nations, marked by wars, conflicts, and natural disasters, compel us to embed humanitarian work into every endeavour, regardless of its scale or nature. She stated, “Each sector, entity or role – however  large or small – holds the potential to innovate in unique ways to support humanitarian causes. The range of ideas and methods through which we can uplift one another is boundless, and it is these possibilities to lead change that we must continuously explore and amplify.”

Her Highness urged private sector entities to allocate a portion of their revenue to humanitarian efforts, enhancing the ability of these organizations to make a measurable impact. “This approach promotes the spirit of our shared responsibility in standing together to support those who are vulnerable and affected. The collaboration between The Big Heart Foundation, Irthi, and Asprey exemplifies a unified commitment to positive global humanitarian efforts, working to improve the lives of thousands worldwide,” the TBHF Chairperson further noted.

A vision of cultural heritage and human generosity

The high-jewellery collection illuminates Sharjah’s enduring dedication to champion global arts and cultures, and steer human passions and talents to build a more inclusive and equitable world where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can access their basic human rights.

Reem Bin Karam, Director  General  of Irthi, emphasised the significance of this partnership, stating, “This partnership is a true testament to the power of art and craftsmanship to drive meaningful and impactful change. At Irthi, our mission is to preserve and elevate Emirati crafts, integrating them into contemporary design narratives while empowering the talented artisans behind them. This collaboration with Asprey London is a perfect reflection of that”.

“We are especially proud that the proceeds from this collection will support TBHF’s global humanitarian efforts. Our shared commitment emanates from Sharjah’s deep-rooted passion for doing good that drives initiatives like this—where art, heritage and compassion unite to create lasting, positive change for communities around the world,” she further added.

“Asprey is deeply honoured to contribute to this noble cause, working alongside The Big Heart Foundation and Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council”, said John Rigas, Asprey Executive Chairman. “We are proud to have infused Irthi’s Emirati heritage into this collection, ensuring each piece reflects not only the finest craftsmanship but also the essence of humanitarian commitment.”

The Big Heart Foundation’s humanitarian impact

Mariam Al Hammadi, Director General of TBHF, highlighted the profound humanitarian impact this initiative will bring. “The impact of this collection goes beyond its beauty—it extends into the lives of countless individuals and communities across our region and the world. The proceeds from these pieces will plant seeds of hope, create opportunities, and spark positive change where it is needed the most. At TBHF, we are filled with anticipation, knowing that the difference we make together will ripple far and wide”.

“It is a privilege for us to walk this journey alongside Sharjah’s visionary leadership, whose unwavering commitment to tolerance, compassion, and resilience continues to light the way forward for all of us,” she added.

The Precious Heart collection’s launch marks another milestone in TBHF’s ongoing efforts to alleviate suffering and support communities worldwide. Through innovative partnerships like this, TBHF continues to inspire generosity and positive change on a global scale.

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, and eminent advocate for refugee children at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), articulated that the paramount priorities facing global humanitarian organisations are the formulation of comprehensive programs and strategic frameworks. She underscored the necessity of developing support initiatives aimed at mitigating the multifaceted and enduring repercussions of crises and conflicts on social systems and individual well-being.

She noted that while urgent and emergency response programmes are essential, they alone are not enough. The impact of a single month of suffering can resonate across years, profoundly affecting the trajectories of entire generations.

Responding to ongoing humanitarian crises

Her Highness emphasised that the lack or inadequacy of healthcare services, education, psychological support, and institutional as well as community care can prove more detrimental than the crises themselves, owing to the severe long-term repercussions on human capacities that are essential for societal recovery. She urged all actors in the humanitarian sector, including individuals, government entities, and private organisations, to enhance their readiness to confront the escalating and unprecedented crises currently afflicting the world.

These remarks were made during the meeting between Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Humanitarian Envoy for The Big Heart Foundation, with the team from the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva, Switzerland.The meeting reviewed the joint efforts between TBHF and the ICRC, along with their outcomes, highlighting the shared commitment to humanitarian causes and the positive impact of their collaboration.

Pierre Krähenbühl, Director General of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), provided a detailed briefing on the ICRC’s operational strategies in response to the ongoing humanitarian crises and the activities of its teams in regions experiencing severe humanitarian distress, such as Palestine, Lebanon, and Sudan. Discussions also addressed the numerous challenges and inherent risks associated with ensuring the secure delivery of emergency assistance to affected populations, along with strategies to bolster the capacity of global actors in supporting humanitarian missions on the ground.

With regard to the international and legal protection required for humanitarian workers, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher underscored the sanctity of humanitarian efforts,a principle upheld by all pertinent international treaties and statutes. She clarified that no entity is entitled to undermine or rationalise violations of these protections, nor to breach the laws that safeguard humanitarian operations. Her Highness further asserted that the international community has a moral obligation to protect those dedicated to preserving humanity, particularly those who stand in solidarity with the most vulnerable populations confronting death, starvation, displacement, and the loss of all semblance of normalcy under the brutal pressures of conflict.

A shared responsibility towards the world

During the meeting, Her Highness discussed strategies to ensure that humanitarian organisations remain adequately prepared, emphasising the need for sustainable interventions that address the long-term impacts of crises on the health and self-reliance capacities of communities, thereby facilitating their recovery. She noted that the scope and nature of the crises currently unfolding worldwide are unprecedented, necessitating innovative and forward-thinking approaches to ensure that efforts towards positive humanitarian action are not overshadowed by destructive forces.

For his part, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi affirmed that the repercussions of current humanitarian crises may persist for decades, adversely impacting not only the directly affected communities but also the broader global community. His Highness stressed that, in the present context, reinforcing local and international partnerships and activating the private sector’s role in mobilising all humanitarian resources are more critical than ever.

His Highness explained that humanitarian work in the coming phase must focus on the revival and recovery of communities. This requires an emphasis on sustainable projects, especially given the extent of destruction affecting many cities in the region, which has impacted all aspects of life, including the desolation of scientific, educational, health, and cultural institutions, and the complete disruption of infrastructure and other vital services and facilities.

Visit to the International Committee of the Red Cross museum

On the sidelines of the meeting, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, accompanied by the delegation, visited the International Committee of the Red Cross Museum in Geneva. The museum stands as one of the world’s most significant monuments commemorating human suffering and honouring those who have selflessly served humanity during its darkest periods.

Their Highnesses  toured the museum’s extensive exhibits, which include various artefacts chronicling the history of humanitarian relief efforts led by the Red Cross, as well as presentations exploring how volunteers provide assistance in different emergencies. The museum also features touching stories of individuals who have either benefited from or contributed to the missions of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, including survivors of wars, natural disasters, and epidemics. Additionally, the museum presents artefacts and documentation that trace the evolution of humanitarian work and chronicle the establishment and missions of humanitarian delegations across the globe.