The annual Big Ball has raised more than $200,000 in donations in support of under-privileged children’s education.

The event, at the Al Bustan Rotana Hotel, was organised by prime movers from Dubai’s media and creative industries

The committee headed by Barry Kirsch of BKP Music said the amount generated would be used to support the education of underprivileged children through Unicef (the Adopt-A-School programme in Lebanon) and the children of the Dubai Autism Centre.

The cream of the media, creative and entertainment industries, including important personalities and corporate entities gathered for the event, which also included a performance by Nancy Ajram. More pledges of financial assistance or other forms of support were made on the night of the event.

“The response has been heart-warming and shows once again that there are many people in Dubai who want to make a difference for social uplift and change. This is a city of people driven not only by success, but also by compassion to make this world a better place for underprivileged children,” said Kirsch.

The Big Ball, presented by Blink Studios, is endorsed by the Unicef, International Advertising Association (IAA) and the Consulate General of Lebanon in Dubai.

"Unicef is happy to partner for the second year with the Big Ball, an event that is becoming a wonderful tradition in Dubai that exemplifies a great spirit of giving and commitment to children's education. We are grateful to the organisers BKP and all the volunteers, sponsors, and guests that made the Big Ball possible. Thanks to them, underprivileged children will have a chance at better education and a better future", said Tarek Shayya, chief of fundraising and partnership Gulf Area Office, Dubai, Unucef.

"Indeed, we are grateful to the “Big Ball” philanthropic initiative in encouraging corporate social responsibility amongst a vital and influential sector. We invite the media to join us in spreading awareness and in fundraising to support children with autism, their families and caretakers. There is no humanitarian mission superior to that of empowering children with special needs. The funds raised will particularly help us improve our assessment and diagnostic unit services,” said director-general and board member of Dubai Autism Centre. – TradeArabia News Service