DUBAI // Aisha Al Hamadi was depressed and lonely after her husband’s death – but almost 500 hours of volunteer work since has given her new purpose, and made her realise that her “mission in life has not ended”.
Ms Al Hamadi urges other women, Emirati and expatriate, to join her in community work, give back to people and make the loneliness disappear.
“After my husband passed away last year I felt alone, I felt I was not contributing,” she said. “Becoming a volunteer gives me happiness. I have value to add and I’m not just passing time.”
When Aisha signed up she handled basic administrative work, tracking volunteers to register them and distribute certificates. Now as team leader, she works with the elderly and people with disabilities.
She explains to children the importance of tradition and how to conduct themselves in the Community Development Authority’s Al Majlis Madares, or Majlis is a School, gatherings.
Interacting with strangers did make her nervous but Ms Al Hamadi, 53, now looks forward to outdoor visits, talking to residents and spreading awareness about community centres.
“I was a bit tense when I went on field volunteering because it was my first time,” she said. “I didn’t have any experience but I had support from others who taught me.
“At first I didn’t know how to handle children with disabilities. Now they are like my children, I love them so much.”
Finding a social organisation that would take on an older woman was not easy and she was turned down by several.
Her call to Hana Al Harthi, director of the CDA’s social cohesion department, was a final attempt to find volunteer work.
“I remember very well her dialogue,” Ms Al Harthi said. “She said, ‘I want to volunteer but this is your last chance because I’m not going to call any more’.
“She had tried several groups and everyone told her she is too old. We are very lucky she was referred to us because she is committed and works hard. As a local she has a lot of experience, so children and others listen and accept what she says.”
Ms Al Hamadi has enlisted 20 nieces and nephews as volunteers.
“At her age she could just give up or relax and let things happen around her,” Ms Al Harthi said. “But she decided to take things into her own hands. I feel proud of a woman like her.”
Ms Al Hamadi also volunteers with a disability centre.
Volunteering has been a learning experience where Ms Al Hamadi’s suggestions count and she can make a difference.
“I invite all women – expatriates, locals – to come instead of staying home, being depressed and getting diseases from being lazy.
“It has made me stronger, more open. I do not just have to receive orders. I have developed my personality because I can give my opinion and discuss ideas.”
rtalwar@thenational.ae