Ramadan 2026: Khalid Al Ameri, Kalpana Iyer join special iftar in Dubai
Children of Determination showcase talents and heartfelt messages
DUBAI – More than 200 guests, including families of Children and People of Determination, renowned UAE social media personality Khalid Al Ameri, Bollywood veteran Kalpana Iyer, community leaders, entrepreneurs, media representatives, and philanthropists gathered at Khalidiya Palace Hotel, Dubai for a special Ramadan iftar organised by JYK Community Services in collaboration with Westfield Event Management.
The elegant evening celebrated inclusion, empathy, and hope, sending a message that communities thrive when united by compassion. Solidarity, the organisers emphasised, remains stronger than any challenge.
The gathering embodied the spirit of Ramadan while promoting the core values of the UAE: diversity, kindness, and collective responsibility for societal well-being.
Dubai special iftar
The special iftar served as more than just a meal; it was a platform to honour the strength, talents, and aspirations of People of Determination. Families were welcomed into a warm, respectful, and joyous environment. Children proudly showcased their dreams, artistic abilities, and creative talents, engaging guests from all backgrounds in meaningful interactions.
The event reflected a commitment to inclusion, demonstrating that true community cohesion emerges when differences are embraced, and empathy guides engagement.
Standing together
Despite regional uncertainties, organisers proceeded with the event, underlining courage, resilience, and unity. The evening became a beacon of hope, showing that communities guided by faith and compassion can rise above fear. Juhi Yasmeen Khan, Founder of JYK Community Services, said: "We are one community, we are safe, and we stand together."
Guests experienced a rare sense of togetherness, finding comfort and joy even amidst external challenges.
Thoughtful gestures
JYK Community Services arranged gifts for Children of Determination and their families, including plants, stationery, toys, hygiene kits, and grocery packages. Westfield Event Management also contributed special gifts to bring delight to the young attendees.
A particularly memorable aspect of the evening was a token of appreciation crafted by the children themselves. Wooden lighthouses, canvas artworks, and sapling pots, signed by the Children of Determination, were presented to supporters and partners, symbolising growth, gratitude, and hope.
Evening of inspiration
The programme commenced with a soulful recitation from the Holy Quran by Nilofer Saleem, creating a spiritual start. Guests then shared iftar, followed by meaningful conversations between children and distinguished attendees. Laughter, smiles, and genuine connections filled the room, fostering an atmosphere of joy and unity.
Kalpana Iyer reflected on the event: "I am truly delighted to join this special Iftar to spread positivity and celebrate unity. Receiving a lifetime achievement token from these children is deeply touching."
One of the young participants, Nilofer Saleem, who has global developmental delay, shared her excitement: “I feel very happy to be here. We wait for this Iftar throughout the year. Meeting so many kind people and receiving gifts makes this a very special evening."
A vision of compassion
Juhi Yasmeen Khan elaborated: “This Special Iftar is not just a gathering; it is a reminder that compassion, unity, and inclusion define our community. Even amid current circumstances, holding this event showcases the UAE’s true spirit, where people stand together with confidence, compassion, and hope. Tonight, we send a message to the world: we are united, we are safe, and together we are stronger.”
Supporting partners
Although unable to attend due to travel, Keisaku Nishida, CEO of Westfield Event Management and Ina Vacation Home Rentals, expressed support: “Even from afar, I am proud to be part of an event that celebrates inclusion, compassion, and the extraordinary spirit of People of Determination.”
Khalidiya Palace Hotel curated a customised Iftar menu, thoughtfully designed for the special guests. Henna artists from Aroushi Beauty Salon added a festive touch, while Aster Clinic provided complimentary health check-ups. Prime Vision Studio documented the evening, capturing moments that reflected the courage and unity of a community choosing hope over fear.
Building inclusion
The special Ramadan iftar demonstrated the power of community-driven initiatives. Bringing together people from all walks of life, the event highlighted how inclusion and compassion can create meaningful societal impact. It reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to ensuring that every member of society, especially People of Determination, is empowered, respected, and celebrated under the visionary leadership of His Highness Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The evening concluded with guests leaving inspired and grateful, carrying home not just gifts, but renewed hope and a vision for a more inclusive future.