16,364 individuals nominated for Abu Dhabi Awards

The month-long nomination period for the fifth annual Abu Dhabi Awards, which ended on 27th September 2009, generated more than 31,000 nominations recognising people right across the Emirate for their acts of goodness, organisers have declared.

This year, 52 per cent of the nominations received – or 16,364 individuals – were unique nominations.

This is a 50 per cent increase in individual nominations from 2008 when 10,000 individuals were nominated, representing 25 per cent of the total nominations.

“The significant growth in unique nominations confirms the fact that over the past five years the Abu Dhabi Awards have become an integral part of the community, and an effective way for people to recognise the goodness around them,” said Maryam Amiri, member of the Abu Dhabi Awards Organising Committee.  “Once again, the continued support of the people of Abu Dhabi shows that there is a spirit of generosity for those who give so much to our community.”

Partners of the Abu Dhabi Awards supported the campaign generously. Reports and interviews by Abu Dhabi Media Company brands such as Abu Dhabi Al Oula, Al Ittihad and The National have kept audiences informed of the nomination process and who fellow residents are nominating.

“ADMC is honoured to help spread the message of this fantastic community initiative that puts the spotlight on the commitment and dedication of ordinary people across the Emirate, and in so doing highlight the opportunity for the public to nominate those whose efforts inspire and enrich our community for an Award,” says Abdulrahman Al Harthi, Abu Dhabi Media Company spokesperson.

Takatof volunteers manned the nomination booths located across Abu Dhabi at public locations and shopping malls. “Takatof volunteers were, once again, available to help people through the nomination process during the month-long nomination period. I pay tribute here to their enthusiasm and application in interacting so well with the public,” said Maytha Al Habsi, Director of Takatof.

Judging and evaluation is now underway, with Awards presented not according to the number of nominations registered but reflective of the act of goodness itself. Judging will progress through a rigorous and transparent three-step process in order to uphold the authenticity of the Awards.

Recipients will be announced at a ceremony in December to be held at the Emirates Palace. Ceremony details will be announced in the coming weeks.