Community-led POD network provides a safe space, guidance, and shared resources.
Dubai: A new community-led initiative in the UAE is helping strengthen support for People of Determination (POD) and their families by creating a safe, inclusive platform for connection, awareness and shared resources.
The initiative reflects the UAE’s growing focus on building community-based support systems that go beyond clinical care and extend into everyday assistance for families.
How the UAE provides support
In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, Aman Sura, director of Advanced Behavioural Learning Environment (ABLE) UK, said the UAE’s supportive environment for social initiatives makes it easier to deliver services for families.
“It’s been phenomenal. What the UAE has done is give us the ability to start our business. It’s not free, but it is affordable. The government’s sustainability policies are very welcoming when you open a business, which allows us to provide all the support for these children,” Sura told Gulf News.
She also emphasised that identifying developmental needs should be viewed as a guiding step rather than a stigma.
“Diagnosis is very important; it is not something parents should avoid. It helps us understand what support a child needs rather than placing a label on them. It is like having Diabetes — if you run away from it, you will not be able to treat it,” said Aman Sura.
Sura also highlighted the challenge of affordability in therapy services, noting that costs and outcomes can vary depending on each child’s individual needs.
“Not everybody can afford therapy because you do not know when or how quickly the child may improve. It all depends on the child’s age, the level of support, and how much therapy is needed, so parents must also know what to do at home.”
A safe space
According to Almas Aamir, founder and president of Helping Hands Volunteering Team, the launch of the POD Global Support Group marks an important milestone for the community.
The initiative has been created to strengthen connections, share knowledge and ensure families feel supported throughout their journey.
“Meeting the POD community and witnessing their strength, purity and unique spirit was truly moving. These children are truly special, full of innocence, resilience, and they have a beautiful way of touching hearts. This experience has strengthened my commitment to do more for them and to continue creating spaces where they are understood, celebrated and supported with love and respect,” said Aamir.
Global inclusion movement
Pamela Calinog, founder and president of Ausome Family Journey, said the initiative has grown from supporting Filipino families into a more inclusive platform for all communities.
The goal is now to support People of Determination (POD) families regardless of nationality, background or type of disability.
Global inclusion movement
Pamela Calinog, founder and president of Ausome Family Journey, said the initiative has evolved from supporting Filipino families into a broader and more inclusive platform for all communities.
The focus is now on supporting People of Determination (POD) families regardless of nationality, background, or type of disability.
Community-driven care
Alongside the launch, the event also featured a therapy talk focused on supporting teenagers on the autism spectrum as they transition from childhood to adulthood.
Organisers said the goal is to complement existing services by building stronger networks of emotional, educational and social support for families.
The POD Global Support Group was launched on April 26 at Dubai Healthcare City.
