The Developing Child Centre Receives Prestigious Parent-Friendly Label Award from His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Abu Dhabi, UAE | In a proud and historic moment for The Developing Child Centre (TDCC), the organization has been officially awarded the Parent-Friendly Label by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA). The award was presented during a distinguished ceremony at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, under the patronage and presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
The Parent-Friendly Label, now in its third cycle, recognizes institutions that go above and beyond in creating supportive, inclusive, and flexible working environments for parents. It highlights workplaces that empower working mothers and fathers to thrive both professionally and personally—demonstrating how employee well-being and family life can coexist in harmony.
Ms. Donna Cara, Head of HR and Administrative Operations at TDCC, received the award on behalf of the Centre and its visionary founder, Ms. Nof Al Mazrui.
“At TDCC, we’ve always prioritized supporting parents, both the families we serve and our team. Our commitment to flexibility, empathy, and family-first values was further strengthened by adapting the Parent-Friendly Label. We remain dedicated to empowering families, valuing employees, and putting children at the heart of all we do,” shared by Ms. Al Mazrui.
“This recognition is a powerful testament to TDCC’s unwavering commitment to family, inclusion, and holistic well-being. We are proud to be a role model in fostering a workplace culture that truly supports parents, caregivers, and children,” shared by Ms. Cara
National Commitment to Family-Centered Workplaces
During the award ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reaffirmed the UAE’s steadfast commitment to promoting family stability and cohesion, describing the family as the cornerstone of a resilient and prosperous society. His Highness emphasized the essential role families play in passing down national values and nurturing future generations who are capable of contributing meaningfully to the country’s ongoing development.
His Highness also highlighted the importance of parent-friendly workplaces in striking a healthy balance between professional duties and parenting responsibilities. These inclusive environments, he noted, are vital in cultivating positive institutional cultures that not only retain talent but support societal development.
The ceremony gathered esteemed dignitaries including HH Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, HH Lt Gen Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and several senior officials, ministers, and members of the ECA judging panel.
TDCC: Championing Family and Inclusion
For over a decade, TDCC has championed inclusive practices for children of determination and their families. This award recognizes the Centre’s internal practices, mirroring the same values it extends to the wider community. TDCC’s workplace policies include flexible work arrangements, parental support, childcare considerations, and ongoing mental health and well-being initiatives for staff.
Receiving the Parent-Friendly Label solidifies TDCC’s role not just as a center for developmental support, but as a model employer aligned with national strategies for inclusive development.
A Ripple Effect in the Community
The impact of this recognition reverberates throughout the TDCC community, staff, parents, and stakeholders alike. It strengthens trust in TDCC’s leadership, fosters a culture of support and accountability, and affirms that when institutions prioritize the family, the whole society benefits.
With this achievement, TDCC is more inspired than ever to continue innovating and advocating for family-centered practices, serving as a beacon of hope, progress, and inclusion in the UAE and beyond.
