Bahrain’s ‘digital generation’ is walking the talk, turning social media activism into real-world philanthropy, coinciding with World Humanitarian Day this month. 

A rising number of young individuals in the kingdom are exhibiting an inclination for community service, nodding to the island’s humanitarian spirit that nurtures a drive for social work from a grassroots level. 

Observed on August 19, World Humanitarian Day is a time to honour humanitarian workers and to stand with people affected by crises around the world. The theme this year is ‘Strengthening Global Solidarity and Empowering Local Communities’.

Echoing the same spirit are many social and charity groups, which focus on encouraging young minds to explore this selfless pursuit. Among them is the Rotaract Club of Bahrain, which is sponsored by the Salmaniya Rotary Club. They are staging a visit to a geriatric centre in Muharraq on Saturday, August 15, during which volunteers will spend time with the residents, talking to them and gaining valuable lessons in empathy, care and respect.

“We are excited about the visit and meeting the residents at the centre,” Rotaract Club president Ali Zainal, who took office last month, told GulfWeekly.

“Serving as president has been an incredibly rewarding experience so far. It has given me the opportunity to work alongside a passionate and dedicated team, turn our ideas into meaningful initiatives, and see firsthand the positive impact we can create within our community,” added the 26-year-old financial analyst from Amwaj.

Last month, the Rotaract Club of Bahrain staged a free medical camp. More than 150 people benefited from the campaign. The group also organised a fun movie day for orphans, aligned with the international platform’s goals for community service. 

Rotary is a global network of 1.2mn neighbours, friends and leaders who volunteer their skills and resources to solve issues and address community needs. 

Another such historic platform in the kingdom is the Bahrain Young Ladies Association (BYLA). Since its inception in 1955, the group has been committed to empowering Bahraini women and advocating for their rights.

In the last year, many young women have joined the group, like 28-year-old Jawaher Alrowaiei. The Bahraini marketing and communications professional has always supported women’s and human rights. 

“I think young people sometimes underestimate how much influence we can have on the communities around us. Volunteer work gives us something that education and professional life alone cannot always provide – direct exposure to our society, its needs, gaps and institutions and, most importantly, its people,” noted the Janabiya resident. 

“What attracted me was the opportunity to move beyond simply discussing social issues and actually participate in organised community work that can create practical solutions,” said the BYLA representative on the Family Protection and Support Services Coordination and Referral Network project.

Meanwhile, 17-year-old Indian expatriate Arjun Subramanian was also drawn to making an actual difference. 

The Mahooz resident, who attends St Christopher’s School, joined the Interact Club last year. Sponsored by Manama Rotary Club, the group engages students aged 12 to 18 years.  

“Some of my highlights have been handing out essentials and food to migrant workers and helping to distribute eco-friendly reusable bags. Being able to contribute, even in a small way, is something that makes the experience meaningful and rewarding,” added the aspirant author, who plans to pursue a career in the legal sector. 

For her part, Princess Alhamadah, 16, recounted participating in a bake sale at her school to raise money for orphans during Eid. The Britus International School student from Seef has been a part of the Interact Club for more than two years. 

“One of the girls we were supporting, held my hand as we walked around, which really stayed with me,” she added.