LETTER OF GRATITUDE

What an amazing adventure it has been!

5 years ago, I started the Positive Psychology and Wellbeing Research Lab with three of my students with the mission to raise awareness about mental health and teach positive psychology techniques so that people could live their best lives. I am grateful to all the people I have encountered on this journey and everyone who has encouraged and supported us. I feel fortunate that we were able to make a difference in the community.

Over the years the PPWR Lab has held many events such as the Mental Health Day, National Day celebrations and anniversary conferences and seminars These events were a melting pot of contributions from talented artists, speakers, psychologists and students. The events were designed to be interactive and conducive to having open dialogue about topics ranging from mental illnesses, therapy and self-improvement techniques to Islamic psychology and research We also invited therapy and counselling centers so that attendees can learn about services available in the country

Research is a crucial component of identification, investigation and solution of the issues facing a society. That is why the lab was set up as a research lab We are proud to have published different studies relevant to the Saudi society and have even published a chapter in a book. We also have ongoing research projects on thought-provoking topics related to student mental health, gratitude, technology and family dynamics. Our efforts have been recognized by the community We were awarded an honorable mention by the Mac Jannet award in 2021.

“Even the greatest was once a beginner. Don’t be afraid to take that first step.”

- Muhammad Ali

I was also awarded the community service award by Effat University and have been selected to be one of the content developers of the Positive Psychology Division of the MEPA (Middle East Psychological Association). My most prized reward, however, is the positive and encouraging feedback I have received from people about the impact our activities had on them.

This has been a very rewarding journey I have met many wonderful people along the way and learnt a lot. However, with a heavy heart I must announce that my tenure at Effat University has come to an end Effat has been my home away from home and my association with the Effat family will not end here. While this semester will be my last at the PPWR Lab, my journey goes on My mission is to shed light on, share and develop interventions to improve mental health based on beliefs, culture and community values I am excited to publish research papers and start writing a book this year. All upcoming work will be posted on the Instagram account.

I am most grateful to Allah for giving me the courage and guidance to establish this lab, the first in the country. HRH Queen Effat was a true leader in the field of women's education in Saudi Arabia Effat University's progress is a testament to her vision. I have no doubt that her legacy will continue to flourish and contribute to the mental health and wellbeing of the youth I am grateful to Effat University for giving me this opportunity. Dr Haifa and her team have supported me throughout these 5 years. I am fortunate to have been acquainted with many talented and amazing academics, artists and professionals during this time and cannot thank them enough for their active support I also want to thank Afeefah Yahya, Rana Dahlawi and Shaden AlKhalifah, my talented students who worked with me to establish the lab. I am also grateful to my wonderful team members Adeelah Yahya, AlBatoul Al Shaiban, Amnah Yamani, Bashayer khalifah, Joud Altamimi, Lujain Faqerah, Madiha Khayat, Maryam Patel, Sarah Ikhtabi, Sarah Sultan, Shahad Al Sonare, Sundus Fazal ur Rehman and Tamara Gazzaz. Finally, I want to thank all the readers who have shown interest and enthusiasm in our works

I wish everyone the very best!

Dr Saddiga Al Ghalib, Founder

A tribute to Professor AbdulManan Barr

Prof AbdulManan was a wonderful human being and a true humanitarian. He genuinely supported our lab and our mission He was soft spoken and kind in his words and actions. Perhaps that is what drew people to listen to him He was humble and modest about his achievements and contributions. Adhering to the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) who was sent as a mercy to mankind, Prof AbdulManan dedicated his life to improving people's lives. His generosity will certainly be missed by many We are grateful to him for coming through for us whenever we needed it. Despite being extremely busy, he took the time to celebrate our 4-year anniversary with us and explained the importance of research in the development of a society Prof AbdulManan was a worthy role model through his wisdom, virtues, and character He treated people with compassion and kindness and Allah blessed him with many talents and blessings. Prof. AbdulManan was a leading academic in the field of Psychology, Positive Psychology and Islamic Psychology in the region with multiple published scientific papers and books He was a keen researcher and insisted that research be relevant to the needs and beliefs of the people so that it can benefit them. His works connecting Islam and Psychology are truly remarkable and impactful. He dedicated his life to serving his people and the development of the Ummah through education We have been very fortunate to have met him and learn from his wisdom His works and words will continue to inspire the generations to come. May Allah bless him with Jannah through His vast mercy. To learn more about his works, please click on the link below: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1PsDzziETR5fZDs2ps-RXIB9lsp7h_pp0?usp=sharing