IN SHORT

Sonia Al Hashimi’s pledge to give her son a sense of independence has today grown into the celebrated UAE Down Syndrome Association. Through her work and determination, she has empowered individuals and families and shattered the stigmas that have often prevented those with Down Syndrome from becoming productive members of society. Her commitment to the cause is boundless but, as she says, it is a labour of love. “We all have twenty-four hours in a day and to give just one hour is not too much.”