Emirati youth climbs 85,000 steps to stardom

Although going up and down the stairs of 100 highrise buildings might be considered a ‘herculean feat’, Jalal was at his modest best, though visibly exhausted.

“I am just a normal guy... what I did may be unique, though. It required a lot of stamina and resolve to push through all the way. Everyone should do something unique to support a humanitarian cause he believes in,” he said.

Jalal embarked on his challenging endeavour of climbing 100 towers 20 days ago to raise awareness about special needs children, mainly those belonging to the Rashid Paediatric Therapy Centre. Determination, patience and self-confidence are few of the things Jalal learnt during his towering effort. “I learnt especially how to deal with some people who were discouraging me saying that I am wasting my energy and playing around. I want the folks of my age to redefine themselves and be more spontaneous. They should be more involved in the society’s service,” he maintained.

According to the 20-year-old Emirati, “There are things in life that money can’t buy. Giving away without expecting anything in return is one of these things. I just feel blessed. I am grateful that I have been given that opportunity which nobody seized it before.”