the SPEAKERS line up
Our speakers are at the forefront of creating a world where every action is driven by a profound sense of purpose. They are leading voices who envision and build frameworks for sustainable development, ensuring global prosperity for generations to come.
Armen Sarkissian
FORMER PRESIDENT OF ARMENIA
A distinguished statesman, scientist, and entrepreneur, recognized for his leadership in politics, academia, and international affairs. He served as the President of Armenia from 2018 to 2022 and previously as Prime Minister in 1996. A trained physicist with a focus on complex systems and artificial intelligence, Dr. Sarkissian held academic positions at the University of Cambridge and has authored several influential books. His works include "The Other Side of the Mountain", "The Road to Nowhere", "The Small States Club", and "The Theory of Quantum Politics". These books explore themes of global transformation, the role of small states in international relations, and a novel approach to understanding politics through quantum theory. Beyond academia and public service, Dr. Sarkissian has advised global organizations and multinational corporations, focusing on innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
Ken Goldman
FORMER PRESIDENT OF HILLSPIRE AND YAHOO CFO
Ken Goldman is a veteran financial executive with over 40 years of experience leading finance operations in the technology industry. He served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Yahoo! from 2012 to 2017, where he played a pivotal role in restructuring and transforming the company. Currently, he is the President of Hillspire LLC, a family office in Palo Alto. Goldman has held CFO roles at Fortinet, Siebel Systems, and Excite@Home and serves on the boards of major firms, including NXP Semiconductors and RingCentral. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Cornell and an MBA from Harvard Business School. "Entrepreneurship is about transforming ideas into impact. It’s about creating value that drives positive change in the world." "The future belongs to those who dare to innovate and build solutions that address the world's most pressing challenges
Bruno Roche
FOUNDER OF ECONOMICS OF MUTUALITY AND FORMER CHIEF ECONOMIST AT MARS.INC
Roche's work centers around creating economic models that align business success with societal good. He is renowned for his innovative approach to integrating mutual benefit into business practices, often expressing: "The true measure of business success is not just profit, but the positive impact it creates for society and the environment."
Stacey Lawson
VICE-CHAIRWOMAN AND CEO YGREEN FUND
Lawson's career is defined by her commitment to advancing sustainable energy practices and fostering innovation in the clean energy sector. Her leadership philosophy is reflected in her impactful statements: "To drive meaningful change, we must invest in solutions that empower communities and protect our environment."
Marc Buckley
FOUNDER OF ALOHAS FOUNDATION
Marc Bukley is the founder of the ALOHAS Regenerative Foundation and a prominent Ecological Economist, Regenerative Futurist, and Solarpunk advocate. A leading figure in climate activism, Marc has dedicated his life to addressing global environmental challenges and advancing regenerative futures. He has worked extensively with organizations like the United Nations, World Economic Forum, and UNFCCC, shaping sustainability agendas and advising on global policies such as the Resilient Development Goals (2030-2050). Marc is a member of several influential bodies, including the EU ESG Taxonomy PSF Commission, and serves as a Board Member of the Dubai Future Foundation and a UN Ambassador for UN HS4A. He is also a champion of regenerative agriculture and sustainable food systems, consulting globally on food reform and renewable transitions. Through his work, Marc strives to empower global citizens to live sustainably within the Earth's boundaries and contribute to a more resilient, equitable future.
Hossam Radwan
CEO Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Group Holding
He brings over 16 years of experience from Wall Street, with significant roles at JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs in New York and London. His leadership at EFG-Hermes and Abraaj Partners in KSA further established his reputation in the finance sector. Hossam's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his successful joint venture with the Munich-based Barkawi Group, specializing in supply chain and logistics consultancy in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. He also serves on the boards of various organizations, including EarlyBird Venture Capital and BATIC, reflecting his commitment to global business development. A proud Georgetown University alumnus, he is widely recognized for his finance expertise His expertise spans a wide range of sectors, including financial services, technology, and consumer goods, where he works closely with senior executives to shape and execute strategies that drive performance, enhance competitiveness, and build long-term value. Ihab is known for his analytical rigor and collaborative approach, helping businesses make informed decisions and achieve sustainable success. Prior to founding Transfiguration Advisory, Nikola gained extensive experience as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he developed his strategic expertise. His work has helped numerous startups and established companies navigate complex markets, unlock growth opportunities, and implement transformational strategies that align with evolving business environments. With a deep commitment to innovation and organizational development, Nikola is recognized as a prominent figure in both the advisory and business transformation sectors.
Prof. Dr. Ali Mokdad
PROFESSOR OF HEALTH METRICS SCIENCES AT THE INSTITUTE FOR HEALTH METRICS AND EVALUATION (IHME) AND CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER FOR POPULATION HEALTH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
He earned his BS in Biostatistics from the American University of Beirut and his PhD in Quantitative Epidemiology from Emory University. Dr. Mokdad's career includes 18 years at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), where he directed the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). At IHME, he has led significant research on local-level disease trends and health disparities, particularly in the United States and the Middle East. His contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the Global Health Achievement Award and the Department of Health and Human Services Honor Award.
Ayman Sejiny
ADVISOR
A highly experienced financial and management advisor, currently chairing one family office and serving as the CEO of another. He also advises two entities in the issuance of Sukuk through regulated entities. Since 2018, Ayman has served as the CEO of ICD (Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector), where he leads efforts to fund projects that foster competition, entrepreneurship, job creation, and export potential. Under his leadership, ICD has played a critical role in advancing Islamic finance, attracting co-financiers, and advising governments and private sector entities on developing and modernizing private enterprises and capital markets. Before joining ICD, Ayman held prominent CEO positions at Ibdar Bank and Alkhair Bank (formerly Unicorn Investment Bank), where he was responsible for strategic business areas, including corporate, investment, and private banking. Additionally, he served as CEO and Managing Director at Barclays Saudi Arabia from 2009 to 2014, where his leadership and innovative strategies significantly enhanced the bank's profitability and success
Bolor-Erdene Battsengel
STRATEGIC ADVISOR TO SPACE X, FORMER VICE MINISTER OF DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MONGOLIA, AI POLICY MAKER
Battsengel has played a pivotal role in advancing Mongolia's digital infrastructure and fostering innovation. Her approach to technology and strategic advisory is captured in her influential statements: "Technology and innovation are key drivers of progress. They hold the power to transform societies and expand human potential."
PROF. DE KAI
PROFESSOR OF COMPUTER SCIENCE AND AI AT HKUST AND UC BERKELEY
A renowned computer scientist, AI ethicist, and linguist, widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to artificial intelligence and machine learning. He is a professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and teaches at UC Berkeley, while also serving as a distinguished fellow at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. A founding figure in modern machine translation, Prof. De Kai developed some of the first multilingual AI systems, earning recognition as one of the Founding Fellows of the Association for Computational Linguistics. Beyond academia, he advises global organizations on the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies, emphasizing cross-cultural understanding and societal impact.
ANGELO DALLI
FOUNDER AND CEO UMNAI
Angelo Dalli is a distinguished technology entrepreneur, artificial intelligence expert, and investor, renowned for his contributions to advancing innovation across multiple industries. Holding a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence and with over two decades of experience, Dr. Dalli has founded and led several successful ventures, including Umnai, 5Works, Qvaro, and Bit8, pioneering transformative solutions in AI, fintech, and sustainable development. A recognized leader in the field, Dr. Dalli holds 52 patents in artificial intelligence, reflecting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement while promoting ethical AI practices. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, he actively mentors emerging startups and invests in pioneering innovations that shape the future of industries and societies alike.
Marcello Mari
FOUNDER AND CEO SINGULARITY DAO
Mari blends AI with decentralized finance. He was part of the founding team at SingularityNET and spent nearly five years there in various roles, focusing on public relations and communications. Under his leadership, Sophia the Robot became an international celebrity. He also coordinated the inaugural collaboration between artist Andrea Bonaceto and AI entity Sophia the Robot, resulting in the first-ever NFT artwork collaboration between a human and an AI.
ALANOUD AL HEJAILAN
Founder Dreamrock
is currently a Co-founder and CEO and Producer and Musical Director and Singer and Songwriter at Dreamrock Entertainment Ltd. She is also a producer and musical director in animation and theater, and the main singer and songwriter in “Azooz and Jude”, “a Bedouin tale”, and “Where did they go?”
PROF. Mark Tester
Professor of Bioscience KAUST
Mark Tester is Professor of Bioscience in the Center for Desert Agriculture and the Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering, at KAUST, in Saudi Arabia. He was previously in Adelaide, where he was a Research Professor in the Australian Centre for Plant Functional Genomics and Director of the Australian Plant Phenomics Facility. Prof. Tester led the establishment of this Facility, a $55m organisation that develops and delivers state-of-the-art phenotyping facilities, including The Plant Accelerator, an innovative plant growth and analysis facility. In Australia, he led a research group in which forward and reverse genetic approaches were used to understand salinity tolerance and how to improve this in crops such as wheat and barley. He moved to KAUST in February 2013, where this work is continuing, expanding also into work on the salinity tolerance of tomatoes. Prof. Tester obtained his Bachelor’s degree in botany from the University of Adelaide in 1984, and his PhD in biophysics from the University of Cambridge in 1988.
Dr. Sarah Ghaleb
CO-FOUNDER KEYSS PROJECT
Dr. Sarah Ghaleb is the KEYSS Project Cofounder and the Head of Business Incubation and Training Programs at the Saudi Aramco Entrepreneurship Center (Wa’ed), with a decade-long career in entrepreneurship, innovation and social enterprises.Her work emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership in navigating complex global
Nikola Jurisic
Founder of Transfiguration Advisory
A global leader in culture transformation, having successfully led projects for renowned organizations such as Saudi Telecom, Saudi Tourism Authority, and Emirates Global Aluminium, to name a few. Prior to founding Transfiguration Advisory, Nikola gained extensive experience as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he developed his strategic expertise. His work has helped numerous startups and established companies navigate complex markets, unlock growth opportunities, and implement transformational strategies that align with evolving business environments. With a deep commitment to innovation and organizational development, Nikola is recognized as a prominent figure in both the advisory and business transformation sectors.
KATHARINA OBINGER
PARTNER BCG
Katharina Obinger is a partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where she specializes in advising family businesses on governance, strategic growth, and succession planning. Her deep expertise in navigating the unique challenges of family-run enterprises allows her to help organizations develop frameworks that ensure long-term success, preserve wealth, and foster collaboration across generations. In addition to her role at BCG, Katharina serves on several prominent advisory boards and has been actively involved in shaping strategies for multi-generational businesses globally. She works closely with family business owners, focusing on leadership development, wealth transition, and sustainable growth. Katharina’s comprehensive experience extends across various sectors, positioning her as a trusted advisor to family businesses seeking to thrive in an increasingly complex global market.
Roberta Calarese
FOUNDER AND CEO GHAYA
Visionary leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for purpose-driven initiatives. As the creator of the World With Purpose Summit Series, she brings together global leaders, family businesses, and innovators to drive impactful collaborations for sustainable economic growth. Previously serving as Secretary General of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Roberta played a pivotal role in shaping the region's financial landscape, contributing to the development of capital markets and advancing Dubai’s position as a global financial hub. Roberta is also the founderand CEO of Ghaya, an organization dedicated to transform business as force for good and empower business leaders to lead from a place of purpose. Her work continues to shape platforms that inspire sustainable development and long-term prosperity.
IHAB KHALIL
SENIOR PARTNER BCG
He specializes in driving business transformation and delivering strategic solutions across various industries. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainable growth, Ihab partners with organizations to navigate complex challenges and seize new opportunities in dynamic markets. His expertise spans a wide range of sectors, including financial services, technology, and consumer goods, where he works closely with senior executives to shape and execute strategies that drive performance, enhance competitiveness, and build long-term value. Ihab is known for his analytical rigor and collaborative approach, helping businesses make informed decisions and achieve sustainable success. Prior to founding Transfiguration Advisory, Nikola gained extensive experience as a consultant at McKinsey & Company, where he developed his strategic expertise. His work has helped numerous startups and established companies navigate complex markets, unlock growth opportunities, and implement transformational strategies that align with evolving business environments. With a deep commitment to innovation and organizational development, Nikola is recognized as a prominent figure in both the advisory and business transformation sectors.
Mark Sanor
FOUNDER AND CEO 360 ONE FIRM
Mark runs a global community aligning interests on investing or connecting to capital, talent and partners.With a wealth of experience across various sectors, Sanor is renowned for his ability to develop comprehensive strategies that enhance organizational impact and foster strong relationships.
MISHAL KANOO
CHAIRMAN KANOO GROUP
Mishal Hamed Kanoo is the Chairman of The Kanoo Group, one of the Gulf region’s oldest and most diversified family-owned conglomerates, with interests spanning shipping, logistics, travel, real estate, and industrial sectors. Born in 1969 in Dubai, he holds dual MBAs from the University of St. Thomas in Houston and the American University of Sharjah. Mishal began his career as an auditor with Arthur Andersen before joining the family business in 1997. He became Chairman in 2015, leading the Group through a period of modernization and strategic growth. A prominent thought leader, he is a frequent speaker at international forums and a published commentator on Gulf business and social affairs. He is also a passionate art collector and philanthropist, committed to supporting education, culture, and sustainable development across the region.
Dr. Mohammad al surf
CO-FOUNDER AND MD TILAD SUSTAINABILITY CO.
Dr. Mohammed S. Al-Surf is a distinguished expert in sustainable and green construction, currently serving as the Director of the Carbon Department at Tilad Environment. He earned his Ph.D. in Sustainable and Green Construction from Queensland University of Technology in 2014, following a Master's in Project Management from the same institution and a Bachelor's in Architecture from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. Dr. Al-Surf is the founder of the Sustainability Professionals in Saudi Arabia Network (SPSA), which has grown to over 8,000 members. He was the first Saudi to become a U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Faculty member and holds multiple professional credentials, including LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction (BD+C), Envision Sustainability Professional (ENV SP), and TRUE Advisor. An accomplished author, Dr. Al-Surf has written "Sustainable Housing in Saudi Arabia: Opportunities & Challenges" and "10 Steps to Become a Sustainability Professional." He is an active member of several professional organizations, such as the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE), the Pacific Rim Real-Estate Society (PRRES), the Asian Real-Estate Society (AsRES), and the Project Management Institute (PMI). Dedicated to promoting sustainable construction practices in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region, Dr. Al-Surf applies systematic approaches to green construction to enhance quality of life while conserving natural resources.
ramzi abukhadra
CHAIRMAN UBS KSA
Seasoned Saudi banker and business leader with a strong track record in finance and real estate. He is the Chairman of UBS Saudi Arabia, where he plays a key role in guiding the firm’s strategic direction and market engagement. In addition, he is the Managing Partner of Mayaasim Al-Khaleej, a prominent real estate development company based in Riyadh. Over the course of his career, Mr. Abukhadra has held several leadership positions, including Chairman of MetLife AIG ANB Cooperative Insurance Co. and board roles at Taameer Real Estate Investment Co. and Manafe Al-Jazeera. He holds an MBA from Harvard University, an MSc in Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, and a BSc in Chemical Engineering with Honors from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. His expertise and vision continue to shape key sectors in Saudi Arabia’s evolving economy.
PIERS CUMBERLEDGE
CHAIRMAN STRAIGHVIEW INTERNATIONAL, HEC PROFESSOR
Piers Cumberlege is an experienced global executive, board advisor, and investor with a career spanning over three decades in corporate strategy, governance, and sustainable development. He has worked extensively across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, leading transformational initiatives in both the private and public sectors. Piers has held senior roles at organizations such as Lafarge, the World Economic Forum, and various private equity-backed ventures. His expertise lies in ESG strategy, stakeholder engagement, and building effective leadership ecosystems. He also serves as an advisor to boards and family offices, helping them navigate complex transitions with a focus on long-term impact and responsible growth. Known for his strategic insight and cross-cultural acumen, Piers brings a unique blend of commercial experience and purpose-driven leadership to every role he takes on.
the WOMEN WITH PURPOSE
SPEAKERS
Stacey Lawson
Vice- Chairwoman and CEO Ygreene Energy Fund
Lawson's career is defined by her commitment to advancing sustainable energy practices and fostering innovation in the clean energy sector. Her leadership philosophy is reflected in her impactful statements: "To drive meaningful change, we must invest in solutions that empower communities and protect our environment."
Bolor-Erdene Battsengel
Strategic Advisor to Space X, former Vice Minister of Digital Development Mongolia, AI policy maker.
Battsengel has played a pivotal role in advancing Mongolia's digital infrastructure and fostering innovation. Her approach to technology and strategic advisory is captured in her influential statements: "Technology and innovation are key drivers of progress. They hold the power to transform societies and expand human potential."
Marine Tanguy
Founder of MT Art Agency
She leads an agency dedicated to promoting emerging artists and integrating art with global branding and technology. Known for her innovative approach to the art industry, Marine has established herself as a key figure in empowering artists to expand their reach and connect with global markets. She is an advocate for diversity and sustainability in the arts, and her work has been featured in numerous prestigious outlets. Marine is also a sought-after speaker at international conferences, where she shares her insights on the intersection of art, business, and technology.
ELIZABETH VAZQUEZ
CEO and Co-Founder WEconnect International
With over 20 years of experience in business development and international trade, Elizabeth has played a key role in advancing the inclusion of women entrepreneurs in global supply chains. She serves on several prestigious boards and advisory committees, including the Board of Directors for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership, the Advisory Board of the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN)**, and the **Steering Committee for the United Nations Global Compact**. Elizabeth is also a member of the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles Leadership Group and the Women’s Economic Empowerment Group. Elizabeth is widely recognized for her work in promoting diversity and inclusion and is a frequent speaker at global forums, including the World Economic Forum and **UN Women. --- Let me know if this works!
Areej Al Turki
Fintech Leader
Areej Al Turki is the founder and a leading expert in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the MENA region, specializing in investments, stakeholder management, and strategic project planning. With a deep understanding of regional dynamics and a proven track record in driving business growth, Areej has played a pivotal role in facilitating key investments and partnerships within the region.
Sophia Swire
Founder GEDI and Future Brilliance
Sophia Swire is a prominent entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable business practices. As the founder of Swire Consulting, she works to drive change in the corporate sector by helping organizations adopt sustainable and responsible practices. With a passion for social impact, Sophia has been recognized for her contributions to environmental and ethical business practices, particularly in the areas of social enterprise and sustainable development.
Selina Millstam
Senior Advisor Inner Development Goals
Designer of meaningful connections. Selina was the Head of HR People & Organizational Growth at Merckgroup. Before that, she worked for Ericsson as Vice President & Global Head of Talent Management. In this capacity, Selina focused on improving the employee experience by redefining processes and ways of working. Prior to that she was a Principal Consultant in Leadership Development at Mercer, where she helped Fortune 500 organizations achieve high performance through leadership development programs, executive coaching, and organizational change initiatives.
mashaal al ashemimry
Aerospace Engineer and Founder of MISHAAL Aerospace
Mishaal Ashemimry is a Saudi-American Aerospace Engineer, Aerospace Entrepreneur, commercial pilot, speaker and influencer, who was born in the US and spent a few years of her early life in Saudi, where her fascination with space started. More specifically, she was inspired at the age of six while gazing at the stars in the Unayzah desert. To feed her curiosity, she decided to learn how to build rockets that will enable her to explore space and one day take her there. As the First female aerospace engineer in the GCC, she realized that this title comes with an enormous responsibility to inspire others to join her field as well as other STEM programs. To reach the youth, she used social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and YouTube to educate her follower about her field, experiences, and to inspire them to have a dream and perseverance to pursue it. As a result, she became a public figure and speaker at many events in the GCC and globally. Her influence garnered the attention of Macy’s, Pepsico and Dubai TV in campaigns to educate and empower youth.
Roberta Calarese
Founder & CEO, GHAYA | Creator, World with Purpose Summit | Executive Coach | Strategic Advisor
Roberta Calarese is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of GHAYA, a ‘purpose2impact’ consulting firm dedicated to inspiring leaders, governments, and organizations to drive meaningful, sustainable change. She is also the creator of the *World with Purpose* summit series, a global platform that brings together visionary leaders to explore purpose-driven leadership, sustainability, and innovation. With over 25 years of experience in leadership, financial services, investment banking, policy-making, corporate governance, and regulatory affairs, Roberta operates at the intersection of purpose, sustainability, and cultural transformation. She played a pivotal role in shaping the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), where she served in multiple leadership positions, including Chief Legal Officer, Secretary General of DIFC Authority, and Data Protection Commissioner. She was instrumental in developing the DIFC’s regulatory framework and leading global policy discussions with the OECD, the European Community, and the World Bank. Her career spans both the public and private sectors, having started as an investment banking lawyer at Goldman Sachs in London before taking on executive roles at Majid Al Futtaim. As an entrepreneur, she co-founded Apartment 51 and Kanzi Jewels, blending business innovation with creativity. A seasoned board member and award-winning lawyer, Roberta was named Best Female Lawyer in the Middle East by the International Financial Law Review. She is also a certified executive coach, helping leaders unlock their potential and drive impactful transformation.
Paula Schwarz
CEO Cosmopolis
Paula Schwarz is a German-Greek entrepreneur and philanthropist, renowned for her innovative approaches to humanitarian challenges. She is the founder of Startup Boat, a mobile think tank launched in 2015 to develop entrepreneurial solutions for the refugee crisis in Europe. Schwarz also established Cosmopolis in 2023, a digital platform designed to connect refugees with supporters worldwide, facilitating aid and employment opportunities. Her contributions have been recognized by Forbes, which named her among the 30 Under 30 social entrepreneurs in 2016. Currently, she serves as a Partner at Allocator One, focusing on making opportunities and wealth more accessible. Schwarz's work emphasizes leveraging technology and entrepreneurship to address complex societal issues, particularly in the context of migration and social integration. His work emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership in navigating complex global
Tatiana Antonelli Abella
Partner
Tatiana Antonelli Abella is GHAYA’s Societal Transformation Partner responsible for guiding organisations to foster cultures of social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Tatiana is also the Founder and Managing Director of Goumbook, a Social Enterprise established in 2009, leading sustainability, environmental practices, and social impact in the UAE and beyond. During her 17 years in the UAE, Tatiana has garnered a strong reputation and she is actively involved in the green arena. In 2021 she was nominated by LinkedIn as a UAE Top Voice in Sustainability and was elected as regional ambassador of the Nature Needs Heroes international campaign by Timberland. In June 2022 she was awarded the Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice and Environmental Sustainability under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.
Prof. ebtissam al madi
President and Founder Saudi Arabian Wellness Association
Prof. Ebtissam Al-Madi is a transformational leader and change catalyst in the health field in Saudi Arabia for the past 25 years, initiating many key changes in the education & health industry. She established the College of Dentistry in Princess Noura University (PNU) and served as the Founding Dean, breaking ground as the first female dean for a dental school in Saudi Arabia in 2012. During her 3 terms she developed an innovative program for Dental Education in the country. She also founded the Saudi Dental Education Society, the first in the Kingdom and the region to cater to the needs of the scientific education community in dentistry and served as Founding President for 4 years. Prof Al-Madi was then promoted to Vice President of Quality & Accreditation in PNU, leading the University to attain their first Institutional accreditation and initiating their 2030 strategic Plan. She was awarded for distinction in leadership from the 1st Women’s Higher Education Symposium, as well as being acknowledged for her role as one of the initiators in PNU. Internationally, Prof Al-Madi was recognized and inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Dentists in 2018, as one of the elite few of international fellows for her servitude and achievements for the dental community. She now heads WELLNESSworld LLC, a holding company with various channels: WELLNESSworldBLOG / WELLNESSworldMEDIA / LightnessOfBeing Retreats / GVPmedia
Huda Al Rostamani
Frm. Bureau Chief at NBC News Saudi Arabia
Huda Al Rostamani has been the managing director and board member of AW Rostamani Group since 2007. She monitors and manages the performance of the companies under the group’s portfolio and ensures their alignment with the group’s overarching business planning and strategies. Huda Al Rostamani oversees new business development and business turnaround functions Huda Al Rostamani holds a master’s degree in medical engineering as well as a minor in data processing from George Washington University, Washington D.C. She now heads WELLNESSworld LLC, a holding company with various channels: WELLNESSworldBLOG / WELLNESSworldMEDIA / LightnessOfBeing Retreats / GVPmedia
safiya kanoo
VICE CHAIRWOMAN KANOO REAL ESTATE
Saffia Abdulla Kanoo is the Vice Chairwoman of Kanoo Real Estate, a division of the Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo Group, one of the Gulf region’s most prominent family-owned conglomerates. In her leadership role, she has played a key part in driving strategic growth and developing landmark projects that contribute to the evolving urban landscape of the region. In addition to her corporate responsibilities, Saffia is deeply committed to purpose-driven work and philanthropy. She is an active advocate for collaborative giving and the role of family businesses in advancing social progress. Her efforts focus on creating meaningful impact through initiatives that support education, community development, and sustainability. Saffia is recognized for her forward-thinking leadership and her dedication to aligning business success with lasting positive change in society.
Lubna Hussain
Frm. Bureau Chief at NBC News Saudi Arabia
Lubna is an expert in all aspects of media relations, and specialises in ensuring government leaders and organisations are able to use media engagements to promote strategic messaging effectively. She is also experienced in coaching ministers and government spokespeople to enable them to maximise public speaking opportunities.
Founder Gracious F
Frm. Bureau Chief at NBC News Saudi Arabia
Lisa is an Anglo-Italian writer, editor, speaker and New Media entrepreneur. She is acknowledged as a candid presenter and facilitator, with an informal yet informative style. She was editor-in-chief of NewYou, the region’s premier monthly publication dedicated to Integrative Health, Medical Aesthetics, Holistic Healing, Optimal Longevity & Wellness Travel. She now heads WELLNESSworld LLC, a holding company with various channels: WELLNESSworldBLOG / WELLNESSworldMEDIA / LightnessOfBeing Retreats / GVPmedia
DR. DANIJELA DEBELIC
GLOBAL HEART ANESTHESIOLOGIST
Physician, organizer of teams and conferences, international lecturer and speaker, peak health personal and corporate coach, scientist, a proud parent, loving nature, music and the truthDr. Danijela Debelic has been working in the medical field since 2000, specializing in general and cardiac anesthesiology and postoperative cardiac intensive care. Born in Rijeka, Croatia, and raised on the Adriatic island of Pag, she developed a deep respect for nature, which has influenced her approach to medicine. Throughout her career, Dr. Debelic has worked in hospitals across Croatia, the Netherlands, Austria, and Saudi Arabia. She is the USbcd.org heart ultrasound international course director, chief instructor, and co-founder of the Focus Assessed Transthoracic Echocardiography (FATE) schools in Croatia and Austria. While mastering invasive medical treatments, she has come to believe that true healing also involves balancing the mind and body through both modern and ancient techniques. Dr. Debelic is a board member of the Saudi Wellness Association, where she contributes her expertise to advancing health and wellness initiatives.
Michelle chivunga
CEO Global Policy House
Michelle is renowned global expert covering emerging technologies, Digital Assets including Central Bank Digital Currencies for Africa and Digital Trade (AfCFTA Digital Trade Expert) focusing on emerging markets especially Africa and the Middle East. She is a globally recognized Blockchain/Digital Transformation professional. She is also a senior Government Advisor working with several governments and international groups including the Government of Bermuda, the African Union, the United Nations, the AfCFTA, the World Trade Organization, and B20/G20 group. Enriched with a 16 year career history in government policy, banking and technology, Ms. Chivunga is well known for her work in Digital Transformation and Blockchain having engaged in the space since 2010. She has been recognized as Digital Transformation Woman of the Year 2022 in the UK, Top 10 Woman in Blockchain in Africa and one of Top 40 Global Fintech4Good Fellows with the United Nations. Ms. Chivunga now runs and owns one of few black female-led FinTechs (Global Policy House — GPH), globally focused on the Digital Economy (AI, Blockchain, Data, Digital currency) and leading digital asset regulatory implementation across global markets. GPH is also the only ESG driven group focused on sustainable AI/Blockchain and Data management solutions for emerging and commonwealth markets.
Lisa Durante
Founder of Wellness World
Lisa is an Anglo-Italian writer, editor, speaker and New Media entrepreneur. She is acknowledged as a candid presenter and facilitator, with an informal yet informative style. She was editor-in-chief of NewYou, the region’s premier monthly publication dedicated to Integrative Health, Medical Aesthetics, Holistic Healing, Optimal Longevity & Wellness Travel. She now heads WELLNESSworld LLC, a holding company with various channels: WELLNESSworldBLOG / WELLNESSworldMEDIA / LightnessOfBeing Retreats / GVPmedia
Vera Futorjanski
Founder and CEO Veritas Ventures
Login co-founded the tech unicorn Outfit7, creating the Talking Tom mobile gaming franchise which would go on to collect over 18 billion downloads and become one of the most downloaded app franchises of all time. From the very conception of Outfit7, Iza Sia’s $1 billion-dollar exit had a greater purpose than profit and had been manifested with the intention to power her present-day philanthropic megaprojects.
Nadine Benchaffai
Founder of Desertech Ventures
Nadine Benchaffai is the Venture Builder Director at Desert Ventures, managing the innovation pipeline and strategy for the cohort of desert tech startups in collaboration with design partners and corporate sponsors. Nadine is a strategic marketeer, investor, and entrepreneur with over 20 years’ experience within the F&B verticals. Nadine started her career in the world of FMCG at the likes of Kraft Foods, Nestle Purina and Yoplait. During that time, she covered a variety of roles from brand management, to strategy development and innovation. In 2006, she co-founded Tortilla Mexican Grills which today has over 50 stores in the UK and listed on the AIM LSE market in 2021. In Dubai, she co-founded and launched Taqado Mexican Kitchen and went on to build a family of homegrown brands under Abfab Foods which she exited in 2022. More recently, Nadine’s focus has shifted focus to innovation in the agritech and foodtech sectors through advisory and investor roles in startups throughout the Middle East and Africa.