At 30 years old, TV presenter and journalist Shereen Ahmed is redefining what it means to be a beauty queen. Crowned Miss Universe Bahrain 2024, she is using her platform for something far greater than personal prestige; she is on a mission to support single mothers in Bahrain through her newly established initiative, Hope Amal Bahrain.
For Ms Ahmed, this is not simply a charitable cause; it is deeply personal.
Raised by a single Filipina mother, she is intimately familiar with the sacrifices, struggles and resilience required to raise a child alone.
It is this first-hand experience that fuels her determination to create a network of support, one that ensures no mother in Bahrain feels abandoned or without options.
Her vision has been shaped by Hope Amel UAE, an initiative founded by Abbie Kadom, a single mother in the Emirates.
Since 2020, Ms Ahmed has served as an ambassador for the organisation, witnessing its profound impact - particularly in the life of a dear friend who, before her passing, found much-needed aid and comfort through its services.
Inspired to replicate that success in Bahrain, Ms Ahmed formally launched Hope Amal Bahrain last January, with full operations set to commence this month, aligning with the holy month of Ramadan.
This initiative is not just about providing assistance - it is about empowerment. Hope Amal Bahrain aims to create a ‘circle of goodwill,’ fostering a community where single mothers can find both practical help and emotional solidarity.
Her work has already received international acclaim, earning Bahrain its first-ever Silver Voice for Change Award at Miss Universe; an honour that not only validates her mission but amplifies its reach.
“This award recognises the advocacies we represent, and it shines a light on the causes that matter,” she explained. But for Ms Ahmed, the true reward lies in the generosity of her fellow Bahrainis. “We are a people known for our warm hearts and open hands,” she said. “Giving is woven into our culture.”
Already, support has begun pouring in, including a significant anonymous donation that provided the initial funding to kick-start the initiative.
At present, Hope Amal Bahrain operates with the dedication of volunteers such as Sheikha Mohamed Khalifa, an artist and founder of Soul Art, who helps pack and distribute essential supplies.
However, Ms Ahmed envisions a much larger impact. She sees a future where businesses, brands and individuals come together to create a sustainable support network, ensuring long-term assistance for single mothers in need.
The platform offers multiple ways to get involved.
Volunteers can assist with social media management, content creation, logistics and supply procurement.
Businesses can contribute through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, donating vital goods such as baby formula, sanitary products and other necessities.
Individuals can directly support a mother by purchasing items or contributing through an Amazon wish list, allowing donations to reach beneficiaries swiftly and effectively.
“No contribution is too small,” Ms Ahmed emphasised. “Every act of kindness, no matter how simple, has the power to change a life.”
By mobilising collective goodwill, she believes Bahrain can build a future where single mothers no longer face their challenges alone.
For more details visit Instagram @hope_bahrain
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