Building Bridges: The Inauguration of the Gulf Youth Leadership Programme in Sharjah
The “Gulf Bridges – Gulf Youth Leadership Programme” commenced its inaugural session on Sunday, marking a significant initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of leaders within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. The program is a collaboration between Sharjah Children and Sajaya Young Ladies of Sharjah, both tiers of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation for Creating Future Leaders and Innovators. The event saw the participation of 40 remarkable young leaders representing various GCC youth delegations.
In a heartfelt recorded message, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, spouse of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and the President of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation, welcomed the participants to Sharjah, the emirate renowned for its steadfast commitment to human development and cultural advancement. She emphasized the importance of cultivating thought and culture to inspire future generations. Her remarks underscored the unity exhibited among the GCC countries, stating, “Your gathering today is more than just a meeting; it is a reunion that embodies the authentic values uniting our Gulf peoples and reinforces the bonds of brotherhood that strengthen our collective power. If the only outcome of this gathering is the establishment of strong fraternal relationships, that alone is a testament to the success of your meeting in achieving its goals and aspirations.”
The opening ceremony took place at the Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah, attended by notable community leaders and dignitaries, highlighting the event’s importance in the local and regional context. Hanan Al Mahmoud, a member of the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation’s board, championed the program as a pioneering model for Gulf cooperation in cultivating young leadership. She addressed the participants with fervor, encouraging them to embrace their capabilities and actively pursue their ambitions. “True leaders,” she articulated, “are not born but created through their own efforts and resolve.” This insight transformed the gathering into an empowerment session, underscoring the potential within each participant to influence their communities positively.
Zaid Fahad Al-Otaibi, representing the Kuwaiti delegation, expressed collective gratitude on behalf of all participants to the UAE and the Sharjah emirate for hosting the program. He articulated a shared vision: “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.” Such statements encapsulate the spirit of unity and collaboration the program seeks to foster among future leaders across the region.
Recognition of collaborative partners was also a highlight of the event, with representatives from the Holy Quran Academy, Sharjah Municipality, and the Federal Youth Foundation receiving commendation for their contributions. This acknowledgment illustrates the collaborative effort necessary to successfully implement programs that can effectively influence youth leadership within the Gulf.
The opening ceremony concluded with a keynote session titled “The Launch of Greatness,” delivered by training consultant Mohammed Al-Khalidi. He articulated vital leadership principles and provided strategies designed to enhance performance and achieve success. The insights from this keynote further enriched the event, equipping the young leaders with tools necessary for their development.
The Gulf Youth Leadership Programme, ratified during the 37th meeting of the GCC Ministers of Youth and Sports Committee, represents a remarkable step towards bolstering Gulf unity and nurturing future leaders. By creating an environment conducive to leadership development, the program aligns with the broader visions of GCC member states, empowering youth to contribute to building a sustainable future for their nations.
In a broader context, the Rubu’ Qarn Foundation recently concluded its season dedicated to literature and arts. This initiative served to spotlight the artistic capabilities of its members, providing a platform for self-expression. Cinematic works showcased at Aljada highlighted the skills acquired by participants through the foundation’s programs in writing, acting, photography, and directing, significantly contributing to their creative education.
The foundation’s impact continues to resonate through its numerous initiatives aimed at nurturing the talents of young individuals. A photo exhibition held across various venues in Sharjah created yet another opportunity for young artists to showcase their work, highlighting the foundation’s pivotal role in fostering creativity and innovation in the region.
As the Gulf youth embark on this new journey of leadership development, the Gulf Bridges Program stands as a testament to the commitment to a united, forward-thinking Arab Gulf, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the future.
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