Mubasher: INJAZ Al Arab, in a strategic partnership with Citi Foundation, launched its first Leadership Summit in celebration of 15 years of impact across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The Power of the Partnership, was the theme of a panel discussion hosted by the summit to discuss the success of the partnership model of INJAZ Al Arab and JA MENA over the past 15 years and the key drivers that enriched the work of the network, taking into consideration the circumstantial challenges facing a region of true economic instability.

Panellists included Sheikha Hanadi Al Thani, INJAZ Al Arab Chairwoman, Asheesh Advani, Global CEO of JA Worldwide, and Karim Seifelddine Citi's Public Affairs and Government Relations Head, and was moderated by Ramzi Abdel Jaber, Chief Administrative Officer at Investcorp.

“In the MENA region, we have enormous talent and will to become leaders and drive change in the world. At INJAZ Al Arab’s annual competition, youth showcase their potential inspiring millions of others like them in the Arab world and awakening their entrepreneurial spirit,” said Akef Aqrabawi, CEO of INJAZ Al Arab.

“The key to unlocking this potential is building strategic partnerships with unique stakeholders in the region to create synergies that help nurture the younger generation,” he added.

Karim Seifeddine, Citi Foundation, said: “We are pleased to support an event of this magnitude and influence. For years Citi Foundation has engaged various stakeholder through partnerships and events where we can make a difference. INJAZ Al Arab’s leadership is an event where the potential of the young Arab world is showcased, and we see ourselves as enablers and facilitators of ideas that will shape the future of the Arab world. With this event, young leaders will get a chance to share their journey with their peers and inspire them to follow their dreams.”

INJAZ Al-Arab, an affiliate of JA Worldwide, recently concluded its 13th annual entrepreneurship competition in Oman, which saw over 80 students across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) compete for the Company of the Year, Product of the Year, and Social Impact awards.