Omar Ghobash shares leadership lessons with youth at SEF 2025

Sharjah 24: On the first day of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2025, His Excellency Omar Saif Ghobash, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for Cultural Affairs, took the stage to discuss cultural diplomacy. His session, titled ‘Youth as Architects of the Future: Leadership, Culture and Innovation’, emphasised the importance of cultural engagement, leadership, and community building.

The UAE’s success story and cultural identity

During his conversation with Khalid Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Federal Youth Authority, Ghobash highlighted the remarkable success of the UAE, which has built its reputation globally over the past 53 years. He explained that while many romanticize the past of pearl diving and desert life, it was incredibly tough. The Emirati leadership’s vision and resilience have shaped a thriving environment full of opportunities.

Innovation and global exposure

Ghobash emphasized the UAE’s position as a sought-after global business environment. Success in the local market can easily translate to global markets, with many UAE-based restaurants and real estate developers expanding internationally. He urged Emirati businesses to assist young talent by giving them global exposure.

Advice for the younger generation

Ghobash shared his personal journey of acquiring diverse skills, stressing the importance of continuous self-improvement. He advised the youth to understand their environment first, and then push forward to create their own identity. “See obstacles as opportunities,” he said, urging young people to develop a “Plan B” and remain adaptable in the fast-changing world.

Emirati solidarity and mentorship

In conclusion, Ghobash called for Emirati solidarity, urging Emirati entrepreneurs to mentor and support the younger generation. He noted that the real competition is not among Emiratis, but in the open economy coming to the UAE. He encouraged the youth to collaborate and build together for future success.

SEF 2025 and the spirit of innovation

SEF 2025, under the theme “Where We Belong”, brings together 300+ speakers from 45 countries, with over 150 startup pods and 320 investor meetings, fostering global collaboration and innovation. The festival is organised by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) and held at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP).