Sharjah Girl Guides (SGG) have helped to highlight the needs of the impaired and partially-sighted by taking part in the recent White Cane Tour at the Khalid Lagoon Corniche, organised by the Emirates Association of the Visually Impaired. The event, which featured many ‘Brownies’ (girls aged 7-12) and Guides (girls aged 12-15) was held alongside the International White Cane Day, celebrated in October each year. 

The White Cane Day is an initiative celebrated annually across the world, with the aim of spreading awareness about the needs and rights of the visually impaired. It helps to provide an understanding of how the blind and the visually impaired overcome the challenges facing them, and how they can live and work independently. It also celebrates blind people’s contributions to the communities and their roles within society.

“We took part in the White Cane Tour because we are keen to encourage Brownies and Guides to play a part in initiatives and activities that give back to the community and support humanitarian efforts. We also need to educate communities about the issues of the visually impaired, as well as the significance of the white cane, which opens more opportunities for them to travel without an attendant.” said Shaikha Al Shamsi, Assistant Manager at Sharjah Girl Guides.

The guiding movement was first established in Sharjah in 1973, after which it blossomed through all seven Emirates, giving rise to the Girl Guides Association of the United Arab Emirates in 1979. Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, SGG aims to inspire and nurture future generations to become progressive global citizens by providing a platform for girls to develop to their fullest potential.