Haddad is set to embark on an adventure to this challenging and imagination-inspiring location
Beirut – July 17, 2017: touch, the leading mobile operator in Lebanon, managed by Zain Group, has announced its support of Michael Haddad, a professional athlete, inspirational speaker, adventurer and social entrepreneur, on his next expedition, which he has entitled “The North Pole Expedition, A Journey for Humanity”. Haddad, whose body is 75% paralyzed, will journey 100km in the North Pole, commencing April 2018.
A ceremony was held under the patronage and in the presence of HE Prime Minister Saad Al Hariri at the Grand Serail on July 11 to publicize the expedition. A number of public figures also attended the event including HE Minister of Telecommunications Jamal Al Jarrah, HE Minister of Tourism Avedis Guidanian, as well as HE Deputy Prime Minister Health Minister Ghassan Hasbani, UNDP Resident Representative, Philipe Lazzarini, the President of the Lebanese American University Dr. Joseph Jabbra as Michael partners in this expedition.
touch chose to partner with Michael Haddad on his unique initiative as part of its corporate sustainability and social responsibility activities, having been inspired by Michael’s dignity, passion, determination, and consideration for the well-being of humanity. Michael himself is a UN Ambassador for climate change and decided to journey to the North Pole to raise awareness about the ongoing Arctic melt due to global warming; to collaborate with the engineering team at the Lebanese American University School of Medicine to revolutionize the current exoskeleton that aids his movement; and to promote Lebanon and help position it on the global map.
Commenting on this adventure, Emre Gurkan, touch Chief Executive Officer said, “touch is honored to be supporting Michael Haddad on his latest conquest. Despite the physical challenges he faces, Haddad has demonstrated a unique ability to defy all odds. He is living proof that physical disability is a psychological hurdle that can be overcome with the correct mindset and positive outlook.”
Through Positive touch, the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility program, touch believes that people like Michael Haddad are important role models for positive change. Michael represents the notion that dreams are within our reach no matter how great obstacles may appear to be.