UAE Minister Reem Al Hashimy Honored by Bill Gates

UAE Minister of State for International Co-operation, Reem Al Hashimy, was recently recognised by philanthropist Bill Gates as a Goalkeepers Champion for her efforts in advocating child survival and education.  

The accolade was bestowed during the 2025 Goalkeepers event, held on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. 

As chairwoman of Dubai Cares, Al Hashimy has steered initiatives to expand access to education in developing countries—efforts that played a central role in her selection for the honor.

She accepted the recognition with humility, remarking, “Every child embodies a promise for the future; a promise we must nurture together with purpose and determination.” 

At the Goalkeepers gathering, several global actors were celebrated alongside Al Hashimy, including David Beckham for malaria advocacy, John Green for raising awareness on tuberculosis and mental health, and leading health figures from nations like India, Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria for their contributions to child health.  

In the same event, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez received the 2025 Global Goalkeeper Award in recognition of his commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. 

Bill Gates used the platform to draw urgent attention to shrinking global health funding. He announced that his foundation would commit US $912 million over three years to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, and he challenged governments and donors worldwide to match that scale of ambition.

Gates warned that without renewed investments, years of progress in reducing child mortality risk would be reversed. 

In her role, Al Hashimy underscored the UAE’s dedication to working with global partners to uplift vulnerable communities. She expressed pride in standing alongside innovators and policymakers who share the mission of ensuring every child—regardless of geography or circumstance—has the opportunity to learn, grow, and fulfil their potential. 

This honour cements Reem Al Hashimy’s status on the global stage as a leading advocate for children and education. The recognition from Bill Gates and the Goalkeepers initiative highlights not only her achievements but also draws attention to the ongoing challenges in child health and education—urging stronger collective action in a time of funding shortfalls and humanitarian pressures.