Arab Youth Centre Launches Fourth Edition Of Young Arab Pioneers Initiative To Empower Youth Across The Region

The "Young Arab Pioneers Initiative" launched its fourth edition under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This initiative, organised by the Arab Youth Centre (AYC) in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Business Youth Council and other collaborators, brings together 40 pioneers from 13 Arab countries. The event focuses on various fields such as education, innovation, community service, and technology.

This year's edition aims to empower participants through field visits with decision-makers and networking opportunities with experts and investors. The Abu Dhabi Business Youth Council offers the Pioneers Beacon Package, while over 15 local and regional partners provide consultations and support. Advanced training workshops and an impact-measurement study are also part of the programme.

Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth and Vice Chairman of AYC, emphasised the initiative's role in transforming ideas into achievements. He stated, "Empowering youth and investing in their capabilities is the most strategic investment we can make in shaping both the present and future of our region." This platform aims to build a knowledge-driven economy by fostering creativity and sustainable growth among Arab societies.

Fatima Al Halami, CEO of AYC, addressed the audience by highlighting their commitment to showcasing powerful stories of Arab youth. She said, "Arab youth are not passive recipients of change... they are its driving force." Her remarks underscored that each participant's journey contributes to redefining global perceptions of Arab youth as innovators and leaders.

The initiative features several specialised tracks. In Education, notable figures include Zainab Saeed Salman Ahmed from Bahrain for enhancing education efficiency and Amin Riyad Amin AbuDyak from Palestine for founding Jusoor Labs. The Community Service track highlights individuals like Ghadah Al Habib from Saudi Arabia, founder of DAL Association.

In Entrepreneurship, Fatma Ahmad AlMoosawi from UAE stands out as the founder of a premium Emirati tea brand. Meanwhile, Mohammed Khaled Hamad Al Shamsi is recognised for his work in cybersecurity training. The Space & Technology track includes Lama Al Oraiman from Kuwait as an analogue astronaut.

Focus on Sustainability

The Medicine & Health Sciences track features Hessah Abdullah Alhuwaish from Saudi Arabia with three patents in academia and research. In Sustainability & Environment, Amgad Moustafa Abdellatif from Egypt is noted for agricultural innovation. Farah Al Asaad from Syria is recognised as an environmental activist.

Industry & Innovation sees Boutaina Boujrada from Morocco innovating hydrogen-powered cars. Ali Alloghani Al-Ali from UAE is known for his work in robotics and AI invention. Scientific Research highlights Kenaish Eissa Al Qubaisi from UAE as an MIT researcher in photonic chips.

Networking Opportunities

The first day included networking activities designed to foster professional connections among participants. A workshop titled "Entrepreneurial Presentation and Storytelling Skills" was delivered by "Deraya," equipping attendees with tools to effectively present their projects to investors and partners.

This initiative continues to play a crucial role in empowering young Arabs across various fields by providing them with resources and opportunities to transform their ideas into impactful projects that benefit communities throughout the region.

With inputs from WAM