Family connections and values are vital in the lives of children, playing a crucial role in shaping their values, beliefs, and behaviours, which collectively influence their overall development.
Family First is a worldwide movement that aims to transform lives and communities by empowering global change through the enduring values of love, care, and shared stories. Building upon a solid foundation of rigorous research and peer reviewed data, we aspire to foster stronger communal bonds and promote intergenerational learning in our fight against the growing challenges of depression, loneliness and social fragmentation.
Our aim is to expand this initiative to become a well-established force and a cultural shift towards love, care, and interconnectedness.
After undergoing surgery, grandpa embarked on a path of recovery, supported by our family. As his grandson, I became a vigilant caretaker, ensuring grandpa faithfully took his medicine. This simple act wove a thread of love through our familial bond. In each step of Grandpa's journey to regain strength, I joined him on walks to the masjid, our quiet companionship speaking volumes.”
Mohammed Ahmed, GEMS Our Own High School, Al Warqa’a
As Mohammed Ahmed helped his grandfather to regain his health and get stronger after an illness, their bond got stronger too.
My journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. With my incredible family by my side, I have overcome every obstacle and soared to new heights. Their unwavering support has made all the difference and I am forever grateful for their presence in my life. Together, we have proven that anything is possible, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.”
Heba Alawadhi, GEMS Wesgreen International School, Sharjah
Ghaya speaks of the support her family have given her as she was diagnosed with a rare condition at birth.
We believe that education is a bridge that connects all generations and Family First fully embodies this concept as we aim to connect our families as they learn and grow together.
MISSION AND VISION
A FAMILY FIRST MOVEMENT
A recent trip to Hyderabad, India, underscored the value of family for me. Gathered with my cousins and my mom's siblings in a cosy restaurant, savouring chai and snacks, I was struck by a profound sense of contentment and happiness. It was in the laughter, the simple joys, and the shared moments that I found a deep sense of gratitude."
Smriti Rajesh Gr GEMS Legacy School - Dubai
Smriti tells of how she finds joy in the simple experiences with family.
TALK SERIES
A series of captivating talks to provide a global platform for inspiring stories across diverse landscapes.
GLOBAL SURVEY
A comprehensive global survey to gain insight into the evolving dynamics of families and communities worldwide.
ANNUAL GALA
An annual celebration of amazing people and stories to inspire change through the transformative power of love, care and shared narratives.
FAMILY FIRST IN ACTION
Read some of the treasured memories shared by GEMS students, capturing special moments with their families
The initiative actively seeks to strengthen family bonds, foster intergenerational learning, and combat issues such as loneliness, isolation, and depression. Family First will play a pivotal role in students’ wellbeing and success as they reap the benefits of deeper connections and an engaged and supportive community around them.
As part of this initiative, we will be conducting a global survey to understand family and community dynamics, organising a series of talks covering inspiring stories from across diverse landscapes, and hosting the Family First Gala, which will be an annual event celebrating remarkable stories and people.
Family First will initially be launched regionally across the GEMS Education network of schools, but the ambition is for Family First to become a much larger force in the years to come – a household name representing a cultural shift towards love, care, and interconnectedness, influencing global policies and practices.
Family First is a transformative movement that seeks to empower global change through love, care, and shared stories, with a focus on strengthening family and community bonds across generations.
We asked students aged 7 to 16 to tell us what family means to them