Gulf Bridges Youth Leadership Programme Launched In Sharjah To Empower Young Leaders

The "Gulf Bridges – Gulf Youth Leadership Programme" began its first session on Sunday. Organised by Sharjah Children and Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah, under the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators, the programme welcomed 40 young participants from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The event aims to nurture future leaders in line with the visions of GCC governments.

In a recorded message, H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and President of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation, warmly welcomed participants to Sharjah. She highlighted the emirate's dedication to human development and cultural growth, which aims to inspire future generations. Sheikha Jawaher emphasised that this gathering is more than a meeting; it embodies values uniting Gulf peoples and strengthens brotherhood.

Hanan Al Mahmoud, a board member of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation, described the programme as a unique model for Gulf cooperation in youth leadership development. Addressing participants, she stressed that youth are key to building a brighter future. She encouraged them to lead with clarity and identity, pursue passions actively, and persevere with determination. True leaders are shaped by their efforts and resolve.

The opening ceremony was held at the Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah. It was attended by distinguished leaders and heads of local and Emirati community authorities. During the event, partners were recognised for their contributions. These included representatives from the Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah, Sharjah Municipality, and the Federal Youth Foundation.

Zaid Fahad Al-Otaibi from Kuwait expressed gratitude on behalf of participating delegations to the UAE and Sharjah for hosting this programme. He stated, "We gather here with a shared purpose: to build bridges of cooperation among youth leaders to cultivate a Gulf generation capable of fulfilling the aspirations of our brotherly nations' governments."

The event concluded with a keynote session titled "The Launch of Greatness," presented by training consultant Mohammed Al-Khalidi. He outlined key principles of effective leadership and strategies for performance enhancement to achieve success.

Approved at the 37th meeting of GCC Ministers of Youth and Sports Committee, this programme marks a significant step towards strengthening Gulf unity. It aims to create an environment conducive to preparing young leaders aligned with GCC governments' visions, empowering them to contribute towards building a sustainable future for Arab Gulf states.

With inputs from WAM