Emirati entrepreneur Anas Bukhash speaks at the opening of the event on Friday.

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

EL GOUNA: Forbes Middle East’s second annual Under 30 Summit in El Gouna, Egypt, has begun to great fanfare, with over 1,500 guests arriving to celebrate and support the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation across Mena’s Under 30 community.

Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, encouraged all attendees to embrace the power of the Under 30 community to change the world. “This community is completely unique. It uncovers incredible young talent with immeasurable potential and builds connections that drive the new ideas that will impact the future for us all,” she explained. “We are so happy to offer this supportive and collaborative platform and look forward to witnessing all the positivity and growth it brings.” 

Mohamed Amer, CEO of El Gouna, said, “In El Gouna, we are known for being a hub for cultural, sports, and arts events, and entrepreneurship. Last year, we did more than 50 events, but this, by far, is my favorite. We see it as part of our mission to provide a platform where people can connect, exchange knowledge, and provide opportunities for the younger generation to shape a brighter future. We are committed to making this experience an exceptional one.”

Rascha Ragheb, Executive Director of the National Training Academy of Egypt, emphasized, “In the heart of every challenge lies an opportunity, and the Under 30 has proven that quickly advanced technology is constant. We are a region that is lucky to have a majority of young people, and this is an advantage that no one can buy. Human capital is considered a treasure. Your projects and applications must be in line with the Fifth Industrial Revolution, especially since it has proven that it is human-centric, with most of the projects targeting sustainability. The summit is an opportunity to meet, communicate, and exchange experiences.”

Chair of the Under 30 Summit 2023, Emirati entrepreneur and presenter Anas Bukhash, welcomed guests, saying, “I think human beings are extremely talented, but we are brought up to be restricted. Stay curious – why is curiosity on a descent as we grow up? Because of guilt and shaming. We become less curious. Change your whys to why not. Why not try a new country, new job, new destination, a new hobby? I think if you combine your curiosity and change why to why not, you will find your niche, something you enjoy. It is a marathon, not a spirit.”

This inspiring summit has been designed to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering young professionals with the potential to drive the future of business. Discussions, interviews, and presentations will cover topics including building the leaders of tomorrow, investing in innovation, the art of design thinking and storytelling, building sustainable startups for a better world, technology supercharging product development, and nurturing mental health, diversity, and inclusion.