Young leaders stress need for integrating youth into data industry

In a panel discussion titled ‘Integrating Youth into the Data Industry’, four young Arab leaders – Ghalya Al Ali, Khaled Al Kaabi, Mayada Adil and Rabaa BaniYas – joined moderator Abdelqader AISaqqaf in driving home the importance of involving young people in data collection, analysis and interpretation. The young panel highlighted how these contributions will shape more impactful and data-informed decisions that will drive progress in policy-making and sustainable development.

Ghalya Al Ali, Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Youth Council, underscored the role of behavioural science in addressing societal challenges. She presented a relevant example from the UAE, where a pilot programme in the hospitality sector significantly reduced food waste by using smaller plates in restaurants. “Generosity is embedded in our culture as Emiratis and Arabs, but it also comes with challenges, like food waste,” she explained. “Through behavioural science, we learned that small nudges—such as reducing plate sizes—can decrease food waste by up to 60%. This highlights how statistical understanding can address complex social issues."

Mayada Adil, UN Young Leader for SDGs 2022-2024, spoke passionately about youth-driven decision-making, noting a significant shift in the past two years towards youth-led initiatives on the global stage. "Data is a powerful tool for young leaders," she said, "and we are seeing youth at the forefront, using data to address critical issues like climate change, education and inequality."

Rabaa BaniYas, Acting Executive Director of Corporate Support and Director of The Statistical Training Institute at the Statistics Centre, Abu Dhabi, encouraged proactive thinking through data. She explained that in order to solve future challenges, data must be utilised to anticipate problems and create forward-thinking solutions, particularly in key sectors such as education and healthcare. Answering a question on how to allay the ‘fear of data’ amongst the previous generation, she said: "To ease the fears of the elderly about data, it's essential to raise awareness about data privacy laws. By helping them understand how their personal information is protected, we empower them to engage with the digital world confidently and safely."

Khaled Al Kaabi, Senior Analyst for Infrastructure Investments at Mubadala, encouraged the younger generation to stay curious and "keep an open eye" on emerging trends and opportunities within the data and investment sectors. His remarks pointed to the dynamic nature of data, particularly in investments, and how youth are poised to make significant contributions. he said while narrating his own journey, talking about how he first started by taking up a ‘little bit of statistics’ in school and then ‘a little more’ at the university.

The two-day Regional Data & Community Development Forum 2024 is being held on October 9 and 10 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah at the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC). This pioneering platform marks a first for the region, as it brings together experts from around the world to highlight the power of data in turning sustainable social development plans into tangible realities.