Salama Saif Al Tunaji, the 17-year-old advocate from Sharjah, is emerging as the face for anti-bullying. Since starting her anti-bullying campaign back in Grade 7, Salama has brought about change by raising awareness through workshops in schools, community centres, and charities all over Sharjah.
Salama’s foray into advocacy was one born out of a personal experience that touched her. At an innocent six years of age, she had been a witness to an incident where a child with special needs was being bullied.
The boy, who later was found to be suffering from Angelman syndrome-a condition that affects speech and motor skills-was mocked by his peers. The moment was one that still stayed with her because at the time, her shyness and young age prevented her from doing anything.
Years later, when she reached Grade 7, an act by Salama started taking place. She started conducting workshops during her school’s free periods to sensitize her classmates about the dangers of bullying. Her initiative was appreciated no less, and soon the classes started multiplying, expanding into different classes and even local community centres, including the children’s centres in Sharjah.
The tireless dedication made Salama the Chairperson of the Children’s Advisory Council operating under the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. As the influence which she had in the fight against bullying continued to grow, she got named the spokesperson for the Council’s prestigious bullying prevention award.
Later, during an important juncture in her struggle, Salama had the honor of meeting UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Salama characterized the meeting as “extraordinary.” She revealed that Sheikh Mohamed complimented her on her achievements and encouraged her to press on. She stated, “I’m proud to be an Emirati, and I strongly believe that the power of the UAE lies in its youth.” Sheikh Mohamed congratulated her on the award and told her, “May God bring you joy, my daughter.”
She also looks to the future, with projects on the rights of children, hoping for an active role in the federal government. Salama is determined that the status of the Emirati youth, both locally and globally, shall rise to bring changes not only to her community but also well beyond.
