AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
More shopping centres and key facilities across the UAE are set to follow after Yas Mall became the first mall in the region to join the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, according to the Zayed Authority for People of Determination.
“The Zayed Authority for People of Determination is working to expand the initiative in collaboration with its strategic partners, foremost among them Aldar Properties,” it said in a statement to Aletihad.
Leading the initiative in the UAE, the authority stands as an enabling partner of the programme. It has worked with Topland, the exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East, and developer Aldar to support Yas Mall’s landmark membership in the programme.
The Sunflower initiative gives voice to people of determination with hidden disabilities. By requesting and wearing the lanyard marked with bright sunflower prints, individuals are able to automatically communicate their need for support — no questions asked.
“The lanyard enables its wearer to receive appropriate assistance immediately, enhancing their sense of safety and confidence while navigating public spaces, and supporting their independence, especially in environments such as shopping areas, travel settings, and waiting spaces,” the Zayed Authority said.
What makes this initiative even more special is that people of determination are not just beneficiaries, they also help shape the movement. They play a key role in implementation and development as they contribute by evaluating the experience and providing feedback, the authority said.
Notably, they also handcraft the Sunflower lanyards as part of vocational workshops at the Innovation Centre of the Zayed Authority for People of Determination.
“The authority is also the exclusive regional producer of these lanyards in collaboration with the UK-based Topland company, reflecting a comprehensive model that combines economic empowerment with community participation.”
The Yas Mall programme’s impact will be gauged through an integrated system than includes polls among beneficiaries and their families and an analysis of the overall experience.
“This is complemented by tracking the number of lanyards distributed daily and the number of cases that received support. Feedback from customer service staff at Yas Mall is also collected, along with measuring the speed and quality of response, enabling continuous development of the initiative and ensuring a tangible and sustainable impact,” the authority said.
As the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative leads efforts to redefine experiences in public spaces, the community can contribute in many ways: from raising awareness about invisible disabilities to respecting the privacy of people of determination. Responding with understanding and kindness upon noticing the Sunflower symbol is also an important part of this effort.
“Promoting awareness of the initiative and encouraging children and families to embrace values of empathy and acceptance contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive environment for all,” the Zayed Authority said.
