ROTA Raises QR1.5 Million For Syrian Refugees During 'Ladies Ghabqa'
- Annual Fundraiser Held Under Patronage of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani
Doha, Qatar, 27 June 2015: Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) held its annual ‘Ladies Ghabqa’ networking event at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) recently. Held under the patronage of, and attended by, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, Chairperson of ROTA, the event raised QR1.5 million for projects supporting Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
The ladies-only event was organised in collaboration with the Qatari Business Women Association and was attended by several prominent businesswomen from Qatar and the region. The women came together to highlight the humanitarian crisis in surrounding countries, and the plight of Syrian refugees currently living in Lebanon.
Jawaher Al Kuwari, a local businesswoman, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to meet other like-minded women, as well as provide a meaningful platform to discuss humanitarian issues currently facing the region. I feel honoured to be able to show my support for the amazing work ROTA is doing in the region and further afield.”
A silent auction gave patrons the opportunity to bid on items such as unique pieces of jewellery, with all proceeds donated to ROTA to fund its Syrian refugee aid initiatives.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to assisting Syrian refugees in Lebanon, and being able to network with like-minded women who are committed to making a difference and raising awareness of the plight of millions of refugees,” said Maryam Apple, benefactor.
During the evening, a 10th anniversary video showcasing ROTA’s achievements and key project milestones over the past decade was screened.
“It’s wonderful being part of the organising team that brought this special event to life. This gathering is one of the leading activities on ROTA’s calendar. Each year ROTA raises a substantial amount of money during the Ladies Ghabqa. The event helps to make a positive impact on those afflicted by circumstances beyond their control,” said Muneera Al-Thani, ROTA volunteer.
Maryam Al Bishri, Director of Marketing, Events and Fundraising, ROTA, said: “Once again, our annual Ladies Ghabqa event has been a resounding success with a record turnout. It’s a great honour to oversee such a prestigious event which brings together leading businesswomen from numerous industries. We are eternally grateful for the generous contributions made by our valued attendees. The QR1.5million raised will go a long way in assisting ROTA to make a difference in the lives of the Syrian refugees displaced in Lebanon.”
ROTA, a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), regularly hosts a fundraising Suhoor during the Holy month of Ramadan, raising funds for its various projects. In 2015, the annual fundraising event became the ‘Ladies Ghabqa’.
In addition to the Suhoor, ROTA hosts a number of other activities during Ramadan, including Iftars for construction workers and grocery donations, all made possible through the help and support of ROTA volunteers, who ensure ROTA’s work continues to reach those most in need.
