Pen may be mightier than the sword. But yesterday, media professionals in the UAE left their newsrooms and hit the streets of Abu Dhabi to show solidarity with the UAE’s Year of Giving initiative.

Hundreds of journalists, TV presenters, cameramen, photographers and PR professionals participated in the ‘Walk to Give’ initiative organised by the National Media Council on Friday, 17th March, 2017, at 3PM.

Donning white caps and t-shirts, the media fraternity threw their weight behind the cause and completed the hour-long walkathon from the Zayed Sports City to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and back.

“As members of the media, it is important that we show the society that we care,” said Mahra AlYaqoobi, presenter at Sky News Arabia. “This is a symbolic walk showing we are all marching towards the same direction, and with the same objective. It is more about connecting with the society around us and connecting with each other for a common national cause,” said AlYaqoobi.

Hanan Al Mhadhebi, from Alaan TV said she is happy to be part of an initiative that encourages people to give. “Sometimes we just need to be part of a cause to promote it. I am here because I want to show the country that I support Year of Giving and willing to work for it,” said Al Mhadhebi.

The ‘Walk to Give’ initiative was launched by the National Media Council to highlight the UAE media sector’s keenness to play an effective role in the success of national initiatives and to give back to the community.

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of State and Chairman of the Board of the NMC, stressed that the initiative seeks to shed light on the important role that the media sector plays in the success of nation-wide initiatives.

“Media professionals have more responsibilities when it comes to national initiatives. They must take part in these initiatives. While promoting them along with all national events, they must encourage the rest of society to follow suit and actively participate in social initiatives,” said Dr. Al Jaber.

Reda Ayad from Aloroeya Newspaper said if newspaper is a powerful medium, then media professionals can also definitely be a strong influence on society. “I am of the opinion that we must come out more often for noble causes like promoting the culture of giving, healthy eating and animal rights,” said Ayad.