(MENAFN- Mid-East Info) Dubai, UAE –December 2025: The fifth annual People of Determination Fitness Challenge Championship concluded today at Al Nasr Club in Dubai. Organised by the Ministry of Family in partnership with the Dubai Centre for People of Determination, the event brought together more than 90 students from government rehabilitation and training centres across the UAE in addition to students participating from private sector centers.

The competitors demonstrated outstanding fitness, sportsmanship, and a strong competitive spirit. The winning teams were honoured in the presence of Her Excellency Hessa Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, along with several officials and representatives from the participating organisations, including Her Excellency Noura Hassan Al Jasmi, President of the UAE Badminton Federation and Board Member of Al Nasr Investment Company, and Mohammed Mattar Al Jumeiri, Board Member of Al Nasr Team Sports Company.

In her remarks, Hessa Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, stated:“Organising this championship on the International Day of People of Determination reinforces our core conviction that sports are a powerful platform for genuine inclusion. They actively foster vital interaction and connection between People of Determination and the wider community in a safe, supportive environment.”

“The Ministry of Family views inclusion as more than a social concept; it's a culture valuing diversity and a fundamental framework for equal opportunities. Our dedication lies in cultivating a confident, ambitious generation of People of Determination, empowering them to make significant, lasting contributions to our national development journey.”

“The impressive turnout of partners from diverse sectors highlights that supporting People of Determination is a shared responsibility. Our robust partnerships are crucial for successfully delivering varied activities and initiatives, thereby expanding opportunities for People of Determination across all spheres.” H.E added.

“A supportive family remains the bedrock of every successful journey. The unwavering support from families and parents of People of Determination today underscores growing societal awareness, positioning them as key partners to the Ministry. Celebrating our winners powerfully demonstrates that investing in the development and empowerment of People of Determination's skills is the most profound and enduring human investment.” H.E concluded.

The fifth edition of the championship saw outstanding participation from students representing various centres, including the Dubai Centre for People of Determination, Ajman Centre for People of Determination, Ras Al Khaimah Centre for People of Determination, Fujairah Centre for People of Determination, Dibba Fujairah Centre for People of Determination, in addition to private centers including Umm Al Quwain Autism Centre, Emirates Down Syndrome Association, Rashid Centre for People of Determination, Al Amal School (Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services), Al Noor Centre for People of Determination, and Sharjah Autism Centre (Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services).

The championship featured stiff competition and excellent sportsmanship across three challenges: Hurdle Jump & Bell Touch, Dish Transfer, and Sit-ups. Participants were grouped into three age categories, 8–12 years, 12–16 years, and 16–20 years, with separate tracks for males and females.

Dubai Center for People of Determination claimed the championship title with an impressive total of fifteen medals, including zero gold, eight silver, and seven bronze. Fujairah Center for People of Determination secured second place with eleven medals, comprising two gold, five silver, and four bronze. Meanwhile, Ajman Center for People of Determination finished in third place with a total of seven medals, including four gold, one silver, and two bronze.

The judging panel commended the championship's excellent organisation and the athletes' exceptional performances, highlighting their impressive fitness levels, determination, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

This annual championship underscores the Ministry of Family's continued commitment to supporting People of Determination and promoting their inclusion in all aspects of community life. It also reflects the Ministry's dedication to creating platforms that highlight their abilities, foster competition, and inspire a passion for sports.

About the Ministry of Family:

On 8th December 2024, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the establishment of the Ministry of Family in the United Arab Emirates. This initiative, guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, positions the Ministry as the principal authority for developing and implementing policies, strategies, and legislation aimed at fostering stable and cohesive families across the UAE. Its core remit includes bolstering the family's role in nurturing sound upbringing, reinforcing national identity, and promoting positive values and behaviours within society. Furthermore, the Ministry will play a crucial part in undertaking research and proposing vital policies and initiatives to boost family fertility rates and mitigate the risks and adverse societal impacts of family breakdown, working closely with all pertinent specialist agencies.

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