Teens learn to be leaders at programme

Aged between 14 and 17, the 25 teenagers are participating this week in the inaugural Starting Point of a Leader scheme.

AJMAN// A group of Emirati teenagers are being primed to become leaders at a five-day summer programme.

Aged between 14 and 17, the 25 are participating this week in the inaugural Starting Point of a Leader scheme.

Aljwhara Abdullah, an 18-year-old from Ajman, said she signed up to the programme because she planned to become a manager.

“I want to get an experience that could help me in my future,” said Ms Abdullah, who wants to study political science at university.

“I used to think that who has a power can be a leader, but after my participation in the programme, I learnt that anyone can be a leader if they have courage, self-confidence and humility.”

Fatima Juma, 15, said she joined the programme to overcome her fear of public speaking.

“This will help me in my future, as I want to study renewable energy. I want to reach a high position and raise my country’s name,” she said.

The summer programme was organised by the Emirates Foundation for Youth Development, the Abdulaziz bin Humaid Foundation, Ajman Youth Centre, Ajman Girls Centre and Ajman Vision.

Shaikha Ali Al Nuaimi, the foundation’s corporate communication manager, said she hoped the programme would teach the youths to be good leaders.