The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) and Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB) announced their Diamond sponsorship of the International Conference and Exhibition for the “People of Determination.” The event will be held under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Works and Youth Affairs, and will take place on the 13^th and 14^th September 2022 at the Bahrain Convention Centre in the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

As part of the ongoing efforts of both banks   to embed social responsibility into its operations, NBB Group will be participating in a panel discussion set to be held during the conference. Attending representatives from the bank will discuss diversity and inclusion in the workplace for “People of Determination”, highlighting NBB’s experience in integrating this segment into its workforce while encouraging other organisations to implement the same approach.

Throughout the two-day conference, which was organised by the National Society for the Support of Education and Training, participants will be able to learn more about early diagnosis and intervention methods in the special needs field and explore the latest technologies and medical and health care practices. Parents of special needs children will be introduced to societies, associations, and centres targeting “People of Determination” and receive a free psychological, and educational consultation offered by specialists and consultants at the exhibition.

Commenting on the bank’s sponsorship of the event, Hisham Abu Alfateh, Head of Corporate Communications at the National Bank of Bahrain, said: “We are pleased to be taking part in the conference as part of NBB’s commitment towards enriching the lives of generations and enhancing our communities. The bank has long been an active advocate of diversity and inclusion, strongly supporting a diverse workplace as part of our core pillar to instil inclusion across all of our operations and initiatives. NBB is committed to providing equal opportunities to all members of our society, supporting opportunities for all citizens to thrive and succeed in their various career paths.”

Mr. Ali Duaij, Senior Manager of Corporate Communications & Brand from Bahrain Islamic Bank, commented: “We are pleased to sponsor the International Conference & Exhibition for “People of Determination”. At BisB, we are committed to uplifting various members of our community through launching many programs, initiatives and partnerships with various community institutions. Alongside NBB we hope to shed light on the abundant opportunities that are available for people with special needs as well enhance our ongoing strides to ensure that they are offered an elevated banking experience.”

The conference aims to raise awareness among all groups of society, including parents and guardians, academic and scientific bodies, researchers and specialists, people with special needs, and various individuals and organisations in Bahrain. It also strives to contribute to the integration of “People of Determination” in various sectors, to encourage organisations in the public and private sectors to create job opportunities for individuals with special needs, and educate individuals on the different categories of “People of Determination” including: Autism, Learning Difficulties  such as Dyslexia, Down Syndrome, mild mental retardation, Physical Disabilities, Hearing and visual Impairments, Attention Deficit & Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), communication disorders, and highlight gifted people from these categories.

The NBB Group is committed to partnering with key entities across the Kingdom to highlight the various growth and development opportunities available for people with special needs within the organisation and the Bahraini community.