Some of the most meaningful progress happens quietly, driven not by headlines or recognition, but by compassion, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to humanity. For more than three decades, Mariam Othman has dedicated her life to exactly that mission through her work with Rashid Centre for People of Determation, helping shape one of the UAE’s most respected humanitarian institutions.
By Shereen Shabnam
Soft-spoken yet remarkably determined, Mariam Othman represents a generation of Emirati women whose influence extends far beyond traditional leadership. Her work has not only transformed the lives of thousands of children and families across the UAE, but has also contributed significantly to changing perceptions around disability, inclusion, and social responsibility within the wider Gulf community.
Born and raised in the UAE, Mariam pursued a degree in psychology at Al Ain University, a field of study that would later become deeply connected to her life’s purpose. Her academic background provided an understanding of human behaviour and emotional development, but it was her belief in giving back to society that ultimately shaped her professional journey.
That journey began in 1994 with the establishment of Rashid Centre for People of Determination in a modest villa in Jumeirah. At the time, the Centre had only five children and a small team of staff, driven largely by hope, determination, and a vision to create something the region had not yet fully developed, which is a holistic, multidisciplinary environment dedicated to children with special needs.
Today, the Centre stands as one of the leading institutions of its kind in the UAE and the wider Arab world. What began as a small initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational and therapeutic facility supporting hundreds of students each day through specialised education programmes, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, vocational training, and activities ranging from music and drama to swimming and horse riding.
Under her leadership, the Centre has grown into an institution employing more than 100 staff members while maintaining an approach centred around compassion, inclusion, and international standards of care. Her role extends far beyond administration. She remains closely involved in daily operations, strategic planning, sponsorship development, awareness campaigns, and international outreach.
One of the defining aspects of Mariam Othman’s work has been her ability to bridge humanitarian efforts with wider community engagement. Over the years, she has introduced numerous initiatives designed to raise awareness and encourage dialogue around disability issues within the Gulf region. Among them is the Humanitarian Personality of the Year Award, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, honouring influential global figures for their humanitarian contributions.
She also established the Rashid Research Award under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, encouraging research and innovation related to People of Determination across the Gulf countries. These initiatives reflect her belief that progress requires not only care, but also education, collaboration, and long-term vision.
The growth of Rashid Centre itself mirrors the UAE’s own humanitarian evolution. A major milestone came when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum generously granted the Centre land in Al Barsha, enabling the development of its current purpose-built facility. Since then, the Centre has continued to receive support from philanthropists, government entities, and private sector organisations that share belief in its mission.
Mariam’s work has also taken her far beyond the UAE. Through visits to centres in Lebanon, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, France, and the United Kingdom, she has continuously sought to learn from international expertise while positioning the Rashid Centre as a regional reference point in specialised education and rehabilitation.
Despite the many accolades she has received from organisations, media institutions, and social initiatives across the region, Mariam remains focused on the human side of her work rather than recognition itself. Her leadership style is grounded in empathy, teamwork, and inspiration rather than hierarchy.
Today, Rashid Centre for People of Determination continues to embody the humanitarian values established by the UAE’s founding leaders while supporting the country’s wider vision for inclusion and empowerment. Yet behind the institution’s success stands a woman whose quiet determination helped make it possible.