Sharjah 24: Under the theme ‘Driving Change’, the inaugural Regional Forum for Data and Community Development, organised by the Department of Statistics and Community Development on October 9-10, is set to redefine the role of data as a powerful catalyst for transformation across personal, professional, and societal spheres in a series of inspirational talks.
Featuring Chris Barton, Founder and CEO of Shazam; Dr. Khaled Ghattas, motivational speaker and author; Charlotte Lockhart, Co-Founder and Acting CEO of 4 Day Week Global; Professor Dr. Ger Graus, former Global Director of Education at KidZania; and Dr. Khaleel Al-Zyood, an expert in human psychology, alongside other key experts, the forum will explore how data can drive informed decision-making, shape innovative business strategies, and foster sustainable community development.
Held at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, Sharjah, the forum will host a distinguished lineup of global experts who will provide insights on how data can unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and social progress. The experts will share their expertise with attendees to harness data's potential for impactful, data-driven change.
Chris Barton: Starting from Zero
Chris Barton will deliver an inspiring talk titled “Starting from Zero: Bring Impossible Ideas to Life” where he will share his innovative framework, which includes five key methods for transforming seemingly impossible ideas into reality by resetting one’s mindset. Emphasising the importance of creative persistence and drawing from his own journey in entrepreneurship, the Shazam Founder and CEO will encourage attendees to question their assumptions and embrace a fresh perspective on problem-solving, demonstrating that innovations can emerge from starting with nothing but a vision and determination.
Dr. Khaled Ghattas: Thought, Number, and Decision
In his inspiring talk titled ‘Thought, Number, and Decision,’ Dr. Khaled Ghattas will explore the intersection of opinion, data, and informed decision-making. He will delve into the practical application of data in personal and professional growth, offering a framework for aligning perspectives with data to make more strategic choices. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how data-driven decision-making can enhance self-awareness and lead to positive, impactful outcomes.
Charlotte Lockhart: Rethinking productivity with data-driven insights
The Co-Founder and Acting CEO of 4 Day Week Global, Charlotte Lockhart, will present an inspiring talk, ‘Data Reveals: Can We Achieve More in Less Time?’ Drawing on extensive research, she will provide evidence on the effectiveness of the four-day workweek, demonstrating how it can enhance productivity, improve employee well-being, and contribute to a more balanced and efficient work environment. This talk will offer key takeaways for decision-makers looking to implement innovative approaches to workplace management.
Ger Graus: Redefining the value of education
In his talk, ‘Measuring True Value – Views Through a Different Lens,’ Prof. Ger Graus, a leading global education consultant and former Global Director of Education at KidZania, will challenge conventional success metrics in education. His session will pose critical questions on the broader role of educational institutions in shaping future generations and explore how a more holistic, human-centric approach can lead to a more inclusive and effective education system. The thought-provoking session will encourage education leaders to rethink the purpose and impact of schooling in the 21st century.
Dr Khaleel Al-Zyood: Building conscious families
Dr. Khaleel Al-Zyood, an expert in human psychology, will deliver a session on leveraging data to create a more resilient and self-aware household. His talk, “Data Insights: Building Conscious Families,” will focus on how analysing trends in family dynamics and decision-making processes can lead to more informed strategies for improving relationships and enhancing overall well-being.
Dr. Khalifa AlTunaiji: Achieving Food Security Through Data
Dr Khalifa AlTunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock in Sharjah, will spotlight ‘Data and Food Security’ by showcasing Maliha Farms as a model for leveraging data in sustainable agricultural practices. His session will focus on how advanced data analytics can improve productivity, support livestock management, and promote self-sufficiency in food production.
A holistic vision from global and local experts
The two-day event includes inspiring talks from Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Charity International; Naama Alaboodi, Head of Studies and Planning at DSCD; Dario Russo, Consultant, RG3 Digital Consulting; Piero Demetrio, Expert in Statistics and International Consultant, Rome University La Sapienza; Eng. Mariam Aljenaibi, Head of Innovation and Future Foresight Center at Agriculture and Livestock Department, Sharjah; Dr. Fareed Al Amiri, Chief Strategy Officer, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park.
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