ABU DHABI, Sep 15 (WAM/APP): Under the patronage of Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, and Chairman of the Arab Youth Centre (AYC), the fourth edition of the “Young Arab Pioneers Initiative” was launched on Sunday.
Organised by AYC in strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Business Youth Council and in collaboration with the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, Emirates Foundation, entrepreneurs, and strategic partners, the fourth edition unites 40 pioneers across 10 specialised tracks spanning education, Industries & Innovation, Community Service, Scientific Research, Space & Technology, Medicine & Health Services, Sustainability & Environment, Entrepreneurship, Education, Engineering and Media & Digital Citizenship. Representing 13 Arab countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Sudan, Mauritania, Palestine, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Morocco, Lebanon and Syria, the initiative highlights the region’s collective drive in shaping future-ready industries and societies.
This year’s edition introduces a renewed vision with stronger measures to empower pioneers, offering field visits with decision makers, networking with experts and investors, the Pioneers Beacon Package by the Abu Dhabi Business Youth Council, and support from over 15 local and regional partners through consultations and facilitation. It also delivers advanced training workshops, an impact-measurement study with Trends Research & Advisory, and activities showcasing pioneers’ achievements to help transform initiatives into leading projects or scale them for greater impact across Arab communities.
Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth and Vice Chairman of the AYC, said: “An exceptional platform to turn Arab youth’s ideas into impactful achievements, the Young Arab Pioneers Initiative has been designed to propel contributions to further the advancement of their communities. 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.
Through this commitment, we are building the foundations of a knowledge-driven economy and preparing Arab societies to lead with creativity, resilience, and sustainable growth. Each young pioneer on this platform embodies the power of possibility, proving that with vision and determination, ideas can be transformed into achievements that uplift communities and extend positive impact far beyond our borders.”
In her welcoming remarks, Fatima Al Halami, CEO of the AYC, said to the Arab youth in the audience: “Our commitment is to spotlight your powerful stories and enable you all to channel your determination to transform challenges into solutions and turn your aspirations into reality. Arab youth are not passive recipients of change… they are its driving force. Each of your journeys forms a vital chapter in a larger narrative, one that redefines global perceptions of Arab youth as innovators, builders, and leaders who are shaping stronger societies and forging a brighter future for generations to come.”