Bahrain's Shaikha Lulwa mourned

Bahrain's most prominent philanthropist Shaikha Lulwa bint Mohammed Al Khalifa passed away last night.

In a statement, the Royal Court paid homage to the deceased who dedicated her life to serving Bahraini women as well as her society and nation.

She has carved a niche for herself in the field of philanthropy. In 1953, she formed Bahrain's first NGO -- the Bahrain Children & Mothers Welfare Society and devoted herself to advancing their rights and increasing their level of engagement in society, serving as president.

Since it was founded, the Association has helped encourage women to take on leadership positions in their communities and has provided assistance to patients, orphans, handicapped, elderly homes and material support for needy families. As President, Sheikha Lulwa ensured that women, children and men who helped promote and enhance her humanitarian initiatives were honored. She promoted voluntary work and solidarity in the community through such recognition as well as governmental support by expressing her constant gratitude.

Sheikha Lulwa has hosted a number of events to raise awareness about women’s and children’s rights in Bahrain and has greatly advanced the movement by placing it at the forefront of national issues. In honor of her hard work and perseverance over the last 50 years, Sheikha Lulwa was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 by the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Women. She was selected for her outstanding efforts in supporting Bahraini women causes and rights as a pioneer in this domain.

 in 2010, she received an award from Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of HM the King and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women, for her philanthropy work.