The competition judges included Jenny Hoof who works as a life skill coach at Mawaheb. Dr. Jennifer Camulli who is a certified educational therapist with 30 years of experience working with people of determination, as well members of the CareTech Team. The judges were impressed by the range and depth of talent on show, with so many students producing such inspiring artwork.

Haroon Sheikh, CEO of CareTech Group spoke warmly at the event, stating: “The talent of the artists is truly outstanding. This is the first of many events. CareTech is committed to promoting the voice of people of determination and Insha’Allah we will move to the next level and do more next year.”

Arts and Crafts therapy has a number of benefits, it provides relaxation and relief from stress and anxiety as well as building confidence, improving cognitive abilities and increasing social skills and interaction.

Over 70 guests attended, including students, families, teachers, local business representatives, artists and CareTech staff from both the UK and UAE.

The full list of prize winners:

Winner

“Old Emirati House” by an artist from Awladouna Center for People with Disabilities, Sharjah

Runners Up

“The Gentle Hummingbird” by students from the Al Manzil Center for People with Disabilities, Sharjah

“The Train” by student  from The Oasis Class at Aspen Heights British School, Abu Dhabi

“A Calm Night” by students from the Al Noor Training Center for Persons with Disabilities, Dubai

“Gold Dream” by a student from the Mawaheb Art Studio for People of Determination, Dubai

The winner and runners up all received certificates, vouchers and gift boxes of arts & crafts supplies for their schools. The overall winner received an overnight stay at the Warner Brothers Studio Hotel in Abu Dhabi.