ABU DHABI: Philanthropy is woven into the region’s identity, but how it is perceived and supported often hinges on media narratives, said Princess Lamia bint Majed Saud Al-Saud, secretary-general of Alwaleed Philanthropies, on the second day of the BRIDGE Summit in Abu Dhabi.
Addressing media leaders, policymakers and innovators, Princess Lamia stressed that media hold the power to amplify or undermine philanthropic efforts, making responsible storytelling a critical pillar in advancing humanitarian and development causes.
During Alwaleed Philanthropies’ measles and rubella vaccination campaign, Princess Lamia said fake news broadcast a warning that the jab increased the risk of autism.
She explained: “We wanted kids to be vaccinated but we had to make a full campaign to educate people about autism in medicine and so on.”
She added that media and philanthropy were connected, with each playing a unique role in addressing community needs.
