Conference Speakers – 2025

Mr. AbdulHakim Elwaer

Assistant Director- General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) | United Arab Emirates

Mr. AbdulHakim Elwaer, is FAO Assistant Director- General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa. Mr. Elwaer, a national of Libya, holds a Ph.D. of Philosophy in Environmental Chemistry from Sheffield University, the United Kingdom, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Organizational Leadership from the Gestalt Centre of Organizations and Systems Development in the United States, and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering and Science Technology from the University of Sabha in Libya. Mr. Elwaer served as Secretary of Environmental General Authority (Minister of Environment) of the Government of Libya in Tripoli and was elected President of the African Ministerial Congress on Environment (AMCEN) from 2004 to 2006. In 2007, he joined the African Union as Director for Human Resources, Science and Technology, and became Director for Administration and Human Resources Management in 2009. During his career at the African Union (AU), Mr. Elwaer has supervised and managed the Establishment of several African unique initiatives and institutions. Prior to joining the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), he served as Adviser to the President on Global Advocacy and Partnerships at the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he also served as the IsDB Spokesperson and Director of Cooperation, Partnerships, Regional Integration and Resource Mobilization from 2014 to 2017. He was further appointed IsDB’s Sherpa at G20 and Heads of Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs).

Ms. Abeer Farah

Programs Officer, Dubai Cares | United Arab Emirates

Abeer Farah is a Programs Officer at Dubai Cares. She leads the UAE-based global philanthropic organization’s Youth & Skills portfolio, focusing on youth-centred education transformation for people and planet. As part of this role, she manages the design, implementation, and monitoring of grants across countries, spanning various thematic focus areas such as teacher development, literacy and numeracy, Girls' Education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as well as education technology (Ed-Tech). Passionate about women’s empowerment, human development, and human rights, Abeer holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies with a major in International Relations and a minor in Women’s Studies from the American University of Sharjah in the UAE.

H.E. Ahmad Al Suwaidi

CEO, Dubai Charity Association | United Arab Emirates

His Excellency Ahmed Al Suwaidi is recognized as one of the distinguished and esteemed figures in the fields of philanthropy, humanitarian work, and community service in the United Arab Emirates. His journey in charitable endeavors began in 1995 with one of the country's charitable organizations. Over a career spanning more than 30 years, His Excellency has accumulated a wealth of expertise and achievements, having held numerous positions in Dubai's government sectors. Through these roles, he has significantly contributed to enhancing governmental operations and elevating the quality of services provided to both citizens and residents. During this period, he earned an excellent reputation and achieved numerous successes that left a positive impact in every field he worked in. He currently serves as the Executive Director of "Dubai Charity Association," where he leads its operations through a wide range of responsibilities. These include managing its affairs, implementing its vision and mission, formulating strategic plans and programs, and strengthening its role in supporting humanitarian and charitable causes both locally and globally. Under his wise leadership, the association has achieved remarkable milestones by implementing numerous projects and initiatives that have successfully improved the lives of millions of beneficiaries both within the UAE and abroad. He has focused on developing innovative programs, building robust strategic partnerships, and ensuring the sustainable growth of Dubai Charity Association.

H.E. Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh

Minister of State to the United Arab Emirates | United Arab Emirates

H.E. Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh was appointed as Minister of State to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Cabinet in September 2018. As Minister of State, H.E. Al Sayegh is responsible for the economic and trade affairs within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). H.E. Al Sayegh supports the government actively in its initiatives and efforts to drive the nation's economic diversification plans and the sustainable future of the UAE. His Excellency holds a number of positions, including Member of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Board Member of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), Deputy Chairman of Emirates Nature - WWF and Co-Chair of the UAE-UK Business Council. He has formerly served in several key capacities, such as Chairman of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Founding Chairman of Aldar Properties, Founding Chairman of Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar), Founding Board Member of Etihad Aviation Group, Founding Board Member of Mubadala Development Company, Deputy Chairman of First Gulf Bank, and held senior positions in Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Abu Dhabi Investment Company (Invest AD). H.E. Al Sayegh holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Lewis & Clark College, USA.

H.E. Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi

Director-General, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Dubai | United Arab Emirates

Director-General, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Dubai

H.E. Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei

Secretary-General, Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) | United Arab Emirates

Secretary-General, Emirates Red Crescent (ERC)

Ms. Alice Laugher

Chief Executive Officer, Committed to Good (CTG), Dubai | United Arab Emirates

Alice Laugher is the founder and CEO of Committed to Good (CTG), an international organisation with over 11,500 staff enabling humanitarian and development projects across 35 fragile and conflict-affected countries. An award-winning leader and advocate for human rights, Alice promotes greater private sector engagement in global development efforts, emphasising business potential for delivering innovative solutions to crisis response and pressing humanitarian challenges. She regularly shares her expertise at prominent forums on how systems must be optimised to align the strengths of global organisations and local communities to improve the delivery of vital assistance, and how we can collectively break down barriers to sustainable development.

Ms. Arwa Damon

President and Founder, INARA; Former CNN Senior International Correspondent | United Arab Emirates

Arwa Damon is a five-time Emmy winning former CNN Senior International Correspondent. While her career has taken her across the globe, she is best known for her coverage of the Middle East, especially out of Iraq and Syria, and for the human stories she brings into her reporting. She is also the recipient of numerous Peabody Awards, the Investigative Reporters and Editors award for her coverage of the 2012 attack on the US Consulate in Benghazi, and the prestigious “Courage in Journalism” award by the International Women’s Media Foundations. In 2015 Arwa founded her charity, the International Network for Aid, Relief, and Assistance, INARA, that provides comprehensive holistic medical and mental health care for children impacted by war and natural disasters who otherwise would not be receiving treatment. In 2022 Arwa parted ways with CNN to direct and produce the award-winning documentary “Seize the Summit” and focus on growing and expanding INARA. She is also a non-resident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council.

Ms. Bérangère Böell

United Nations Resident Coordinator for the UAE | United Arab Emirates

Ms. Bérangère Böell, United Nations Resident Coordinator for UAE, of France brings 23 years of experience in international development and humanitarian cooperation. She held management and leadership positions within the UN for 19 years, developing strong skills in strategic planning, coordination, policy dialogue, emergency preparedness, risk management, advocacy and resource mobilization in the Middle East and Africa. She is a strong advocate of the 2030 Agenda and LNOB. Prior to her assignment as the UN RC for UAE, Ms. Böell served at UNFPA as Representative in Mozambique. She formerly led UNFPA Country Offices in DPRK, Libya and Morocco, promoting interagency collaboration and cooperation in several areas. She also served as UNFPA Regional Advisor in East and Southern Africa, developing strategic and innovative partnerships and mobilizing substantial resources for 21 countries of the region. Ms. Böell previously worked for eight years at UNRWA where she held senior positions in external relations and programme coordination in Lebanon, Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip. She started her career in a Spanish NGO as head of office and programme manager for North Africa. Fluent in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese and with fair knowledge of Arabic, Ms. Bérangère Böell holds a master’s degree in International Cooperation from the Complutense University of Madrid, a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Sciences from the University of Paris VIII and an under-graduate degree in Foreign Languages applied to Economics and Law from la Sorbonne University.

Mr. Claus Sorensen

Senior Adviser on Resilience, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, Norwegian Refugee Council; Former Director-General, ECHO | United Arab Emirates

Mr. Claus Haugaard Sørensen Senior Adviser on Resilience, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response, Norwegian Refugee Council. Until 2016 Mr. Sørensen was the Director General for Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection in the European Commission (ECHO). Before that he held the post as Director General of Communication. He is a career diplomat in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. His first posting from 1981 was at the Danish Delegation to the OECD (Paris). In 1988-89 he was trade and finance councilor at the Danish Permanent Representation to the EU in Brussels. In 1990 he moved to the Executive arm in the Commission under the lead of Jacques DELORS and joined the Cabinet of Vice-president Christophersen working on the EURO, relations with Eastern Europe, the Enlargement with Sweden, Austria and Finland as well as Social and Environmental issues. As Sweden became member of the EU in 1995 he joined their first Cabinet and worked on the fight against organized crime, social and labor market issues and the further enlargement of the EU to the East. Between 1999 and 2011, Mr. Sørensen held top management positions within the European Commission, most notably Director for International Environmental issues, Head of Cabinet for the Commissioner for Agriculture and later Head of Cabinet for the Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian assistance. He is a Board member of the Norwegian Refugee Council, Oslo, Institut Bioforce, Lyon, Center for Global Development, Washington, the Global Executive Leadership Initiative, Geneva, Committed to Good, Dubai and Thinktank Europa, Copenhagen. Mr Sørensen has a Master of Economic Science from Aarhus University and is regularly lecturing at the University of Lund, Kings College and Copenhagen.

Mr. David Harland

Executive Director, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, Geneva | United Arab Emirates

David Harland (born 28 September 1962 in Wellington) is a New Zealand diplomat who has been the executive director of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), a Geneva-based foundation that specialises in the mediation of armed conflict, since 2011. Harland served as a witness for the prosecution in a number of cases at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Harland is the son of late New Zealand ambassador Bryce Harland. Harland holds a PhD from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy (1994), a Master's degree from Harvard University (East Asian studies, 1991), a graduate diploma (进修证) from Beijing University (1988) and a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand (1983).[1][2][3] Harland was appointed HD's Executive Director in 2011.[4] In 2018, he publicly announced that the Basque armed group ETA had dissolved itself as the final step in a long-running process to bring an end to violence in the Basque country.[5][6] In 2022, Harland and HD were cited as an initiator of the UN-brokered deals to ease the global food crisis by facilitating agricultural exports from Russia and Ukraine.[7][8] HD was awarded the Carnegie Wateler Peace Prize for 2022 "for its more than 20-year track record in ending armed conflict and for its patient, creative and discreet approach”.[9][10][11] Harland also sits on the UN Secretary-General's High-Level Advisory Board on Mediation and on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Robert Koch Institute Centre for International Health Protection (ZIG).[12][13] Prior to that, Harland was adjunct professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)[14] and Chair of the World Economic Forum Global Agenda Council on Conflict Prevention. Before joining HD, Harland was director of the Europe and Latin America Division of the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations (2006–2011), where he managed the end of the UN transitional administration in Kosovo.[15] He served in UN peacekeeping missions in Haiti (2010),[16] in Kosovo (2008),[17] in Timor Leste (1999–2000), where he set up and oversaw what would be the first government departments,[18] and in Bosnia and Herzegovina (1993–1998), where he co-led (with the Office of the High Representative) the post-war effort to increase freedom of movement through the introduction of a new national license plate, which he designed.[19] During 1999, he was released from his regular duties, together with Salman Ahmed, to research and draft the UN report on the Srebrenica massacre[20] – "The Fall of Srebrenica".[21] He was a teaching fellow at Harvard University in 1989–1991.[22] Harland served as a witness for the prosecution at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in the cases of The Prosecutor versus Ratko Mladic[23] (2012), The Prosecutor versus Radovan Karadžic[24][25] (2010), The Prosecutor versus Dragomir Miloševic[26] (2007) and the Prosecutor versus Slobodan Miloševic[27] (2004). He was a script advisor for the Oscar-nominated film Quo Vadis, Aida? (2019–2020).

Mr. Dominic Allen

Deputy Regional Director, UNFPA Arab States Regional Office | United Arab Emirates

Mr. Dominic Allen, Deputy Regional Director, UNFPA, ASRO, A dual national of the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland – Dominic brings over 20 years of experience in the UN system, at the country, regional, and HQ levels. Dominic joins the Regional Office as the Deputy Regional Director in August 2024 after serving as the Representative for UNFPA Palestine (2022-2024) – most recently leading the response to the Gaza Crisis. Before taking up this role, Dominic served at UNFPA Headquarters (2019-2022) as Global Programme Coordinator and additionally Chief a.i. for Operational Support and Quality Assurance - striving for excellence in country programming. Before joining UNFPA, Dominic worked for the UN Volunteers (UNV) programme as Chief of the New York Office & UN System Affairs (2016-2019) and as Strategic Management Specialist in UNV’s Executive Office (2012-2016). Dominic joined UNV from the UN Development Operations Coordination Office (2008-2012) where he was Policy Specialist and Policy Advisor a.i. for Country Support and Leadership Development Coordination – leading work on the UN Resident Coordinator system. Dominic started his UN career with the World Health Organization, serving at the Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo (2006-2008), the Iraq Country Office (2004-2006) and Headquarters (2003-2004) - all assignments focusing on emergency and humanitarian action. Before joining the UN, Mr. Allen worked in the private and public sectors. Dominic holds a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Cambridge and a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Huddersfield. He is married and has two children.

Dr. Durmuş Aydın

Secretary General of IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation, Türkiye | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Durmuş Aydın completed his undergraduate studies in 2003 at the Faculty of Social Sciences of Rand Afrikaans University in South Africa, majoring in Social Work. Between 2006 and 2009, he pursued a master’s degree in Labor Economics and Industrial Relations at Marmara University in Türkiye. In 2022, he earned his PhD in Social Work from Yalova University, with a dissertation titled Analysis of Social Services Provided to Syrian Asylum Seekers and Refugees: Cases of Germany and Turkey. Throughout his career, Dr. Aydın has held roles as a social work specialist and consultant within various private sector organizations. From 2004 to 2006, he served as the Head of International Relations at IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation, before assuming the role of Vice President in 2006. Since 2018, he has been serving as the Secretary General of IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation, contributing to the organization's global humanitarian efforts and its leadership in crisis response.

Mr. Elie Dagher

Head of Humanitarian Diplomacy and Programs, Lebanese Red Cross (LRC) | United Arab Emirates

Elie Dagher is the Head of Humanitarian Diplomacy and Programs at the Lebanese Red Cross (LRC) bringing a wealth of experience in management, sales, and humanitarian operations to the forefront of global humanitarian dialogue. With extensive experience in media sales at Rotana Media Services and a leadership role at LRC Blood Transfusion Services since 2018. Elie combines a business-driven approach with humanitarian principles to drive impactful change. Known for his strategic vision and operational expertise, he has successfully centralized the blood services processes, optimized logistics, and enhanced organizational sustainability. Elie Dagher is dedicated to bridging business acumen with humanitarian impact, advocating for practical and sustainable solutions to global challenges. With a track record of increasing blood collection capacity and implementing sustainableoperational practices, Elie exemplifies a results-oriented mindset dedicated to long-term organizational stability. His strategic vision and operational expertise have enabled the centralization of blood services processes and optimization of logistics, contributing to enhanced organizational sustainability and efficiency. As Humanitarian Diplomacy focal person for communicating the needs and challenges of the Lebanese Red Cross to key partners—such as the United Nations, European Union , International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), UK Parliament and others; Elie's expertise positions him uniquely to address the complexities of humanitarian response in today's challenging landscape. His active role in stakeholder engagement facilitates collaboration and ensures that the critical priorities of the LRC are effectively represented in international forums. Combining a results-oriented mindset with a commitment to humanitarian principles, Elie Dagher uses his strategic and interpersonal skills to foster collaboration, advocate for impactful policies, and bridge the gap between the business and humanitarian worlds. His mission is to apply innovative, sustainable solutions to global challenges, ensuring that every initiative is both practical and meaningful. • Strategy, Vision & Mission Planning • Humanitarian Diplomacy & Programs Mgmt • Sales & Marketing Leadership • Profitability & Cost Analysis • Billing, Collections & Cash Management • Contract Negotiations & Strategic Alliances • Business & Operation Management • Finance, Budgeting & Cost Management • Public Relations & Media Affairs • Policy & Procedure Development • Human Resources Management • Team Building & Performance Improvement

Ms. Eva Svoboda

Director of Law, Humanitarian Diplomacy and Policy, ICRC | United Arab Emirates

Eva Svoboda is currently the Director of International Law, Policy and Humanitarian Diplomacy a.i. at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Geneva. Eva worked with the ICRC from 1999 until 2011 in various functions in Kashmir, Sudan, Myanmar, Iraq, East Timor, Egypt, DRC and Algeria. Prior to joining the ICRC, Eva worked for the Swiss Development Agency and various non-governmental organisations. From 2012 until 2018 she was a Senior Research Fellow with the Humanitarian Policy Group (HPG) at the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) in London. Between 2016 and 2017 she worked as the senior expert for detainees and missing at the United Nations Office of the Special Envoy for Syria.

Ms. Fati N'Zi-Hassane

Director, Oxfam Africa | United Arab Emirates

Fati N'Zi-Hassane has been Oxfam's Africa Director since October 2022. Previously at the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) which she joined in 2016 as Chief of Staff to the Executive Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Assane Mayaki, she subsequently held the position of Head of the Skills and Employment Programme which she supervised the creation within the same institution, before being promoted to Head of the Human Development and Institutions Division. In this last role with AUDA-NEPAD, she oversaw the Health component to the Agency’s response to the COVID-19 crises, the creation of a Gender Programme, and numerous projects aligned to Nutrition, Education and Employment continental strategic priorities. Before joining AUDA-NEPAD, Fati worked in Europe for more than ten years as a management consultant and program manager in large international groups, supporting the transformation of private and public entities. Fati holds a bachelor’s degree in Statistics with a major in Demography from the National School of Statistics and Applied Economics of Abidjan, (2002) and an MBA from ESSEC Paris (2005). She speaks French, English and Hausa.

Mr. Federico Soda

Director, Department of Humanitarian Response and Recovery, International Organization for Migration, IOM | United Arab Emirates

Federico has more than 23 years of experience in crisis preparedness and response, displacement, forced migration and programming related to returns, disarmament demobilization and reintegration, labour migration, counter-smuggling and counter-trafficking. He has extensive experience working with governments, civil society, academia and in complex, integrated UN missions. Since 2001, his assignments with IOM have been in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Myanmar, the Regional Office in Bangkok and IOM Headquarters in Geneva. Federico was also posted in Rome as the Director of the Coordination Office for the Mediterranean and in Libya as Chief of Mission. He is currently the Director of the Department of Humanitarian Response and Recovery in Headquarters, Geneva. Federico has a B.A. in Economics and an LL.B. Prior to joining IOM in 2001 he practiced law with McCarthy Tetrault in Toronto, Ontario.

Mr. Fyras Mawazini

Director of International Development, SOS Méditerranée | United Arab Emirates

Fyras Mawazini has been the Director of International Development for SOS MEDITERRANEE since the summer of 2023. Although he helped found SOS MEDITERRANEE in 2015 and has volunteered since, he recently joined the executive team to lead its International Development efforts. In his current role, he focuses on strengthening and expanding SOS MEDITERRANEE's position as a prominent international humanitarian maritime organization on the global stage. With over 27 years of work experience, primarily at the international level, Fyras has dedicated most of his career to working with international NGOs and foundations in various countries across Africa and the Middle East. For more than 15 years, he led numerous humanitarian missions in diverse conflict zones in East Africa and the Middle East on behalf of international NGOs. Then, over the past 12 years, he has provided support and guidance for the implementation of development programs addressing the social challenges of youth, actively contributing to fostering positive social impact. Throughout his career, he has played a vital role in advancing the dynamism of civil society organizations and their capacity to bring about positive change. His diverse assignments have led him to reside in various African countries and the MENA region, affording him profound insights into the transformations of civil societies and enabling him to cultivate essential networks of partners. Fyras holds a Master's degree in International Relations with a specialization in Development Studies from the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland.

H.E. Gerhard Putman-Cramer

Chief Executive Officer, DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Foundation and Director of DISAB | United Arab Emirates

Gerhard J.W. Putman-Cramer, Currently: Ambassador, Permanent Observer of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva; Chief Executive Officer, Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development (DIHAD) Sustainable Humanitarian Foundation; Member, Dubai Council on the Future of Humanitarian Aid (Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives); President of the Finance Committee, Founex Municipal Council, Switzerland; Former member of the Advisory Committee on International Operations of the Swiss Red Cross, of the Board of the Henri Dunant Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and of the Higher Council of the International Congress for Health Specialties (ICHS); former Senior Associate of the Global Humanitarian Forum, Geneva. In his capacity as Permanent Observer of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Putman-Cramer provides support to a number of initiatives undertaken by – or aimed at – PAM member states. This involves developing and applying various aspects of parliamentary diplomacy, often as inputs complementary to actions conducted under the auspices of the UN. As the CEO of the DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Foundation, Amb. Putman-Cramer spearheads a number of the Foundation’s initiatives (including the newly created DIHAD College) and elaborates as well as oversees the Conference Programme of the annual DIHAD event (www.dihad.org). The most recent Conference (23-25 April 2024) had as its theme: “DIHAD 2004-2024, Humanitarian Diplomacy and A Journey to the Future”. From 1975 until 2009 Amb. Putman-Cramer was with the United Nations, initially with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and subsequently with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (DHA/OCHA). He served in New York (on 3 separate occasions), in Geneva (also on 3 separate occasions) and in a variety of field locations (including 2 years in Malaysia and 3 years in Madagascar). The last 14 years of his UN career saw him in the position of Chief of OCHA’s Emergency Services (concurrently appointed as Deputy Director, OCHA Geneva), during which time he created and developed a number of effective international response mechanisms and instruments (e.g the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination Team – UNDAC – and the Civil/Military Coordination concept ) while also reinforcing, together with the concerned authorities in disaster-prone countries, essential response capacities at the community, national and regional levels. During this period also, he led a large number of emergency/disaster response missions to, inter alia, Iraq (in the years 1991-94 and in 2003, as Area Coordinator for the Centre Region), the Caucasus, Tajikistan, Pakistan (the 2005 earthquake), Turkey, Mongolia, Thailand and Indonesia (also in the context of the South-East Asia Tsunami). Amb. Putman-Cramer has a ‘’Diplôme Universitaire en Santé Humanitaire’’ from the University Claude-Bernard in Lyon, a Post-Graduate Diploma (Economics, International Relations and International Law) from the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, a Post-Graduate Diploma (Economic Development) from the Polytechnic of North London and a B.A. (Hons.) in Literature from Bedford College, University of London. Amb. Putman-Cramer is married and has two daughters.

Mr. Giuseppe Saba

Chief Executive Officer and Board Member, Dubai Humanitarian; Founder, United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot Network (UNHRD) | United Arab Emirates

Appointed as CEO of ex-Dubai’s International Humanitarian City (IHC) in early March 2017, now “Dubai Humanitarian” and Member of the Board since April 2023, Giuseppe Saba brings approximately 40 years of extensive experience in the humanitarian field within the International Cooperation of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the United Nations, and international organizations. Giuseppe Saba is the visionary founder of the United Nations Humanitarian Response Depot Network (UNHRD). In 2000, he established the first UNHRD in Brindisi, Italy, under the UN World Food Programme (WFP), bringing together a consortium of UN Agencies, International Humanitarian Organizations, and Governmental and Non- Governmental Organizations. Drawing from the lessons learned during the emergency response to the Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004, Saba expanded the network by opening hubs and negotiating agreements with various hosting governments in Dubai, Malaysia, Ghana, Spain, and Panama. Today, UNHRD is one of the largest humanitarian organizations, with over 90 partners, operating in emergency preparedness and response. Giuseppe Saba is an Italian citizen born in Sardinia in 1951. He graduated as a Professional Nurse in 1974, specializing in Surgical Assistance in Operating Theatre in 1976 within the Hospital of Sassari. He is married and has two daughters. Since he retired from the UN-WFP in 2013, he has been a consultant for various humanitarian organizations. In 2024, Giuseppe Saba received the honour of “Cavaliere dell’Ordine Stella d’Italia” (The Order of the Star of Italy is an Italian order of chivalry)

Dr. Hana Omar

Advisor to the Supervisor General and Director of Partnerships and International Relations at King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre | United Arab Emirates

Director of International Relations and Partnerships at King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre. In her role, she plays a crucial role in fostering relationships between organizations and individuals across the globe. Involves developing and implementing strategies to enhance international partnerships, managing cross-cultural communication, and promoting collaboration between stakeholders from different backgrounds. Identifying opportunities for collaboration, building strong relationships with partners, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and resources to achieve common goals. Prior to that, she worked as a Director of Community Support at King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre. In her role, she manages the implementation of humanitarian projects to support education, protection, early recovery, and agriculture in vulnerable and affected communities around the world in partnership with the UN, INGOs, and NGOs. Also, she worked in the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During her work at the Ministry, she was seconded to the United Nations Development Programme in New York as a Fundraising and Engagement Consultant and co-founded the Global Goals Jams initiative to promote the SDGs and find durable solutions. Later, she served in the Saudi Embassy in Rome as the head of the International Cooperation Unit to liaise with international organizations and manage the G20-Saudi Presidency file. She was also a member of the Leader’s Program at the Ministry. Previously, worked in the Centre on Disability Studies (CDS), University of Hawaii at Manoa to support students with disabilities and build local capacities to improve services through a wide range of education, research, and activities in collaboration with other disciplines. She published several articles on inclusive education and community-based technologies. She is also a reviewer for different international journals.

Ms. Heidi De Pauw

Country Director, Enabel, Jordan | United Arab Emirates

Heidi De Pauw was born February 18, 1972, in Aalst, Belgium, a human rights activist and former CEO of Child Focus, the Belgian Foundation for Missing and Sexually Exploited Children. Since September 2024 she has been country director of Enabel for Jordan, to manage the existing program there but also to develop regional approaches for the Near and Middle East. She is a regular keynote speaker, trainer, and expert for international programs on children's rights, missing and sexually exploited children, and children in conflict zones.

Dr. Hugo Slim

Senior Research Fellow, Las Casas Institute for Social Justice at Blackfriars Hall, University of Oxford | United Arab Emirates

Hugo Slim is a Senior Research Fellow at the Las Casas Institute for Social Justice at Blackfriars Hall at the University of Oxford and at the Institute of Ethics, Law and Armed Conflict at Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government. He is also Visiting Professor at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Academy at Suzhou University and at Schwarzman College at Tsinghua University. His career has combined academia, policymaking, humanitarian diplomacy and frontline relief operations. Hugo has worked for Save the Children, the United Nations, Oxfam GB, the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, and the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD). From 2015 to 2020 he was Head of Policy and Humanitarian Diplomacy at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). His books include: Humanitarianism 2.0: New Ethics for the Climate Emergency, Hurst 2024; Solferino 21: Warfare, Civilians and Humanitarians in the Twenty First Century, Hurst, 2022, Humanitarian Ethics: The Morality of Aid in War and Disaster, Hurst, 2015, and Killing Civilians: Method, Madness and Morality in War, Hurst, 2007.

Mr. Isidro Navarro

World Vision Regional Cash & Market Based Programming Advisor, Middle East/ Eastern Europe and Latin America | United Arab Emirates

Isidro Navarro, Senior Technical Advisor for CVA & Market Based Programming Senior humanitarian professional with over two and a half decades of work experience in most world regions from emergency relief to long-term development. Isidro has extensive experience in the design and implementation of humanitarian programmes to save lives and livelihoods. More recently his work has focused on mainstreaming the use of cash & voucher assistance in humanitarian organisations to optimise the impact and the opportunities these bring to those vulnerable people and communities participating in NGO initiatives. In the micro-finance sector, Isidro lead feasibility studies for the design of community based insurance schemes in Myanmar, privatisation of NGO microfinance schemes and linkages between humanitarian actors and financial service providers to improve financial and digital literacy of rural communities.

Major General James M Cowan

Chief Executive Officer, The HALO Trust | United Arab Emirates

James Cowan is CEO of The HALO Trust. HALO is the world’s leading NGO clearing the debris of war with 12,500 staff in 30 countries and territories. At a time of unprecedented man-made humanitarian crisis, HALO’s work has never been more important. James was a soldier for 30 years, serving in Germany, Northern Ireland, Africa, Hong Kong, Iraq and Afghanistan. He commanded his Regiment, The Black Watch, in Iraq in 2004 during fighting in Basra and subsequently around Fallujah. He was back in Iraq in 2006-07, again in Basra. He took command of Task Force Helmand and served in Afghanistan during 2009-10. He was subsequently Head of Counter Terrorism in the British MOD and led the planning for the 2012 Olympics military security operation. His last job in the British Army was as General Officer Commanding The 3rd (UK) Division. James left the Army in 2015 to become Chief Executive of The HALO Trust. He read Modern History at Oxford and took an M Phil at Cambridge and has a long-standing interest in military history and the Napoleonic Wars. He is married to Minnie with three children and lives in Dorset, UK.

H.E. Kate Forbes

President, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) | United Arab Emirates

Kate Forbes is a humanitarian leader with more than 40 years of experience with the Red Cross and Red Crescent. She served as Chairman of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Audit and Risk Commission for 9 years. Under her leadership, the commission has increased transparency and accountability to enable life-saving assistance of IFRC network around the world. Her Red Cross journey began in 1981 at her local American Red Cross Chapter in Phoenix, Arizona. She worked to combat a surge of home fires impacting Indigenous communities, prevent drownings across the region and provide access to health services through special transportation programs. She then served as the chairman of the local board of directors, regional chapter services board chair and then national chair of chapter services. In 2000, Kate assumed the role of Vice-Chairman of the American Red Cross Board of Governors and then the National Chairman of Volunteers. In these roles, she mobilized more than a million volunteers to deliver assistance, connect with local communities and provide training in their local communities. In her professional life, Kate was most recently the Chief Financial Officer of Electric Applications Incorporated. With more than four decades of experience as a CFO, auditor and controller, she has held executive positions providing vision and inspiration to diverse groups. She specializes in managing complex, rapidly changing financial, utility and green technology businesses with geographically diverse multimillion-dollar operations, under strict financial compliance regulations. In a volunteer capacity, Kate’s served as Chairman of the American Lung Association, a member of the Arizona State University Foundation Board of Directors, Chairman of the PSI Audit Committee, and on a variety of local and national boards. Kate is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Harriman Award, the American Red Cross premier award for outstanding volunteer service, Deborah Karr King Award Central Arizona Chapter, Red Cross Award for Outstanding Humanitarian Service, the Athena Award, the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce Award for Outstanding Business Woman, Public Service Award American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Award for Public Service, and the Arizona State Society of Certified Public Accountants Award for Service to the Society.

Mr. Khaled Khalifa

Senior Advisor and Representative to the GCC Countries, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) | United Arab Emirates

Senior Advisor and Representative to the GCC Countries, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

Ms. Laila Abdullatif

Emirates Nature-WWF, Director General | United Arab Emirates

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif is the Director General of Emirates Nature-WWF – the UAE-based environmental charity and NGO that works in association with global conservation organization WWF. She is a highly respected Emirati conservationist and sustainability leader with over 14 years of experience driving innovation, scalability and strategic multistakeholder collaboration to ensure transformative impact for climate and nature. At Emirates Nature-WWF, Laila leads the delivery of high-impact, science-based solutions for conservation, sustainability, market transformation and the green economy, working closely with Board Members, C-Suite leaders and high-level stakeholders in the public and private sector to effect system-wide change. Under her stewardship, Emirates Nature-WWF earned cabinet recognition as the first non-humanitarian charity in the UAE. An industry disruptor with a proven aptitude for growth, Laila successfully repositioned Emirates Nature-WWF after the COVID crisis. She championed agility, innovation and digitalization to transform the charity’s business model and diversify funding streams. The charity leads pioneering climate and nature initiatives, including the MENA region’s first alliance of non-state actors for climate action (UACA), a collaborative effort to Build Resilient and Sustainable Rural Communities, and multiple marine and terrestrial Nature-based Solutions (including the nation’s flagship climate adaption project. Laila firmly believes in the importance of an activated civil society, one that acknowledges the vital connection between nature and humanity. While cultivating a high-performance culture at Emirates Nature-WWF, she spearheaded the launch of Leaders of Change, a digital AI driven platform that has grown to become the UAE’s largest movement for nature and one that makes participation in the country’s green solutions accessible to all. Her vision for inclusive conservation encompasses local indigenous communities, who are engaged as critical stakeholders – alongside the private sector and public leadership – to ensure the co-creation of solutions that can effectively be embedded within society, aligning with ESG strategies. The charity’s work around the Sustainable Blue Economy fosters a supportive landscape for the origination of innovative Nature-based Solutions while also promoting innovative financing solutions to ensure a pipeline of bankable projects.

Ms. Latifa AlQemzi

Director General of the DP World Foundation | United Arab Emirates

Latifa AlQemzi, Director General of the DP World Foundation, brings a wealth of experience from various leadership roles. With a diverse background, including serving as Chief of Happiness and Positivity, Executive Office Manager at Dubai Culture, and Protocol Director at EXPO 2020 Dubai, she has honed her skills over a 15-year career in project and event management, fundraising, development, and community investment. Throughout her career, Latifa AlQemzi has demonstrated a passion for fostering positive change and enhancing community well-being. Drawing on her extensive expertise, she spearheads philanthropic strategies at the DP World Foundation, driving forward collaborative international initiatives that make a meaningful impact. With her dedication and visionary leadership, she is committed to creating a brighter future for communities worldwide through strategic philanthropy and sustainable development.

Mr. Mamadou Biteye

Executive Secretary, The African Capacity Building Foundation, Zimbabwe | United Arab Emirates

Mamadou Biteye, Executive Secretary The African Capacity Building Foundation Before taking on the role of Exceutive Secretary at the African Capacity Building Foudation, Mamadou Biteye was Vice President, Social Impact for the Central Europe, Middle East and Africa (CEMEA) region at Visa, based in Dubai. In this role, Mamadou works closely with the CEMEA Leadership Team to develop a Social Impact strategy for the region and implement programs that align to regional and market business priorities. He is responsible for engaging non-profit, client, and government organizations as well as Visa employees to bring the VISA Social Impact vision to life in markets across CEMEA. Mamadou has over 25 years of experience in strategic leadership, advocacy and campaigning, community development, and capacity building with extensive field experience in Africa and around the world. Prior to VISA, Mamadou served at The Rockefeller Foundation as Managing Director for the Africa Region, leading programs such as the Digital Jobs Africa initiative, Global Impact Sourcing Coalition, as well as developing partnerships with the African Development Bank, the Gates Foundation, and USAID to support the Foundation’s work. Prior to the Foundation, he held various leadership roles in Oxfam including Regional Director for West Africa Oxfam Great Britain and Oxfam America, leading the development of regional strategies and programs. Mamadou also currently serves as an advisor and board member for various international organizations such as the World Bank, the World Economic Forum, and the African Leadership Network. Mamadou holds a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics from Ohio State University. He is an Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE), and he was also recognized as a Top 100 Most Influential Africans by The Africa Report for his work. Originally from Senegal, Mamadou speaks English, French, Russian, Portuguese, and Wolof.

H.E. Mari Kiviniemi

Chair of the Board, University of Vaasa; Former Prime Minister of Finland | United Arab Emirates

Mari Kiviniemi was the 41st Prime Minister of Finland from 2010 to 2011 and served as OECD Deputy Secretary General from 2014 to 2018. In 2019, she became Managing Director of the Finnish Federation of Commerce, a position she recently resigned. She previously held various positions in the Finnish government, including Minister of Public Administration and Local Government (2007-2010), Minister for Foreign Trade and Development and Minister for European Affairs (2005-2006). Elected to Parliament at the age of 26, she served as a Member of Parliament from 1995 to 2014, chairing and participating in a vast number of committees. She was a member of the Parliamentary Supervisory Council of the Bank of Finland for several years and chaired it from 2006 to 2007. Currently, Mari Kiviniemi is the Chair of the Board of the University of Vaasa and a Member of the Board of Directors of the publicly listed company Metsä Board. Additionally, she serves as a member of the International Advisory Board of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). In addition to her governance and advisory roles, Mari Kiviniemi is a speaker, lecturer, and consultant on societal impact and public affairs through her company, MarKiv Oy. Born in 1968, she studied economics at the University of Helsinki and holds a Master’s degree in Social Sciences. She is married and has two children.

Mr. Maywand Jabarkhyl

CEO of the Fatima Bint Mohamed Bin Zayed Initiative | United Arab Emirates

Maywand Jabarkhyl – CEO of the Fatima Bint Mohamed Bin Zayed Initiative (FBMI) Leading the Charge in Sustainable Humanitarian and Economic Development Since 2008, Maywand Jabarkhyl has been a transformative leader in humanitarian and economic development, driven by a commitment to sustainability and social impact. As CEO of the Fatima Bint Mohamed bin Zayed Initiative (FBMI), Jabarkhyl has significantly improved the lives of over 2 million and empowered more than 8,000 female artisans. FBMI's diverse programs across the UAE, Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan address critical needs in healthcare, education, and economic empowerment with a focus on creating sustainable change. Under Jabarkhyl’s visionary leadership, FBMI has implemented numerous initiatives, including the construction of essential healthcare infrastructure and advancements in education. His strategic approach ensures that these initiatives not only address immediate needs but also foster long-term, sustainable improvements in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. Within the UAE, FBMI also runs The Diplomacy Lab at Emirates Towers as well The Emirati District, supporting homegrown Emirati businesses and entrepreneurs. Beyond his role at FBMI, Jabarkhyl leads Tanweer Investments, a firm known for its ethical investment strategies in energy, agriculture, and real estate. Tanweer’s operations reflect Jabarkhyl’s dedication to community development and support for women-led enterprises, emphasizing sustainable practices and ethical investment. In addition to the social enterprise Zuleya, in 2020, Jabarkhyl founded Mira Farms to support female farmers by providing financial independence and access to global markets. This venture is transforming economic prospects for women and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Jabarkhyl also established The Maywand Foundation to address healthcare challenges in developing countries, delivering essential health services to children and communities in need. Through his unwavering dedication and visionary leadership, Jabarkhyl continues to inspire and uplift communities worldwide, driving meaningful and sustainable progress for countless individuals and families. Maywand holds a Masters in International Studies and Diplomacy from SOAS, University of London and is an advisory board member at the American University in the Emirates.

Prof. Michael Koehler

Grand Bargain Ambassador; Professor, College of Europe, Bruges and Former Deputy Director-General, ECHO | United Arab Emirates

Michael A. KÖHLER, Deputy Director-General, Grand Bargain Ambassador Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO) European Commission Since August 2019 Dr Köhler has been Deputy Acting Director-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations in the European Commission’s DG ECHO, in charge of coordinating the world-wide EU humanitarian aid activities. From April 2022 to March 2023 he was Acting Director- General of DG ECHO. In June 2023 Dr Köhler has been appointed Ambassador and co-lead of the Grand Bargain agreement between some of the largest donors and humanitarian organisations who have committed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the humanitarian action. Previously, from 2015 to 2019, he was Director for EU-Neighbourhood Policy at the Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR) in the European Commission, where he was responsible for cooperation with Mediterranean Arab countries and Israel. From 2013 to 2014, he had been Director for the Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood in the Directorate-General for development and International Cooperation (DG DEVCO), Head of Cabinet to Commissioner for Energy, Günther H. Oettinger between 2010 and 2013 and Head of Cabinet to Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Dr Joe Borg, between 2008 and 2009. Since he joined the European Commission in 1994, Dr Köhler held several positions, including desk officer for Yemen and Iraq; Assistant to the Director for South Mediterranean, Middle and Near East; Deputy European Correspondent; Deputy Head of Unit in charge of the co-ordination of Common Foreign and Security Policy; Deputy Head of Cabinet to Commissioner Borg, Head of Unit for International Affairs and Law of the Sea at the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries and acting Head of Unit for Maritime Policy for the Mediterranean and Black Sea. Before joining the European Commission, he worked as a representative of Konrad-Adenauer-Foundation in Morocco and Tunisia, and later worked in the Policy Planning Department of the Federal Ministry of Economic Co-operation and Development in Germany. Michael Köhler holds a Dr. phil. in History and Middle Eastern Studies from Hamburg University (1987). He authored about thirty books, articles in international Islamic studies and foreign policy reviews on aspects of the political, economic and cultural development of the Muslim World, on the Arab League and on regional integration in the Maghreb, co-operation in the Mediterranean and development co-operation. Since 1997 he is a professor for "Europe and the Mediterranean" the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium, teaches peacebuilding at PSIA/Sciences Po, Paris, and in addition between 2006 and 2016 he served as a senior Fellow of the Center for European Integration Studies at the University of Bonn, Germany.

Ms. Michela Matuella

Director, Emergency Response Coordination Centre, Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) | United Arab Emirates

Michela Matuella is the Director of the Emergency Response Coordination Centre, in the Directorate General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO). She was previously Acting Director for the Western Balkans from 2021 to 2023 and Head of the Unit for Albania, North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Directorate General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement negotiations of the European Commission from 2014 till 2021. She was member of the Cabinet of the Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy (2012-2014), after having worked on the EU accession negotiations with Croatia (2009-2012) and Romania (2003-2005), as well on the negotiations for the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with Bosnia and Herzegovina (2005-2006). She has been chargé d'affaires of the EU Delegation in Eritrea (2006-2009), after several years of work in sub-Saharan Africa (Kenya, Lesotho, Somalia). She holds a degree in Political Economy and a MSc in Development studies.

Dr. Moez Doraid

Regional Director, a.i. for Arab States and Director Division of Management and Administration, UN Women | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Moez Doraid (Egypt) is the UN Women Regional Director, a.i, for the Arab States and the Director of Management and Administration at UN Women’s Headquarters. Between May and November 2023 he served as UN Assistant Secretary General a.i. and UN Women Deputy Executive Director for UN Coordination, Partnerships, Resources and Sustainability, a.i. Dr. Doraid has held progressively responsible positions across the UN system over three decades working in Arab States, Asia, Africa, and at headquarters in New York. For much of the period 2019 -22, he served as UN Women’s Regional Director, a.i., for Arab States, then for East and Southern Africa. More recently, he served as UN Women’s Country Director, a.i., Afghanistan. Dr. Doraid has led the formulation and implementation of UN Women’s strategy to support Arab then East and Southern African countries in their emergency responses to and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. As Regional Director he prioritized support to countries in crisis and post-conflict recovery, including in Syria, Yemen, Libya, Iraq, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Somalia, and Mozambique. As Director of DMA since 2015, Dr. Doraid has enhanced the effectiveness and efficiency of UN Women’s global operations by cutting costs and simplifying procedures. He led the successful drive to increase UN Women’s share of the UN regular budget. He also helped shape and execute UN Women’s operational rapid response to COVID-19 as well as to the crises in Afghanistan, Ukraine and lately the Middle East. From 2010 to 2015, he managed the implementation of UN Women’s systemwide and interagency mandate as Director of the Entity’s UN Coordination Division, along with serving as the Co-Chair of the Consultative Group on Combatting Discrimination and Inequality of the United Nations’ High-level Committee on Programmes (HLCP) and as Chair of the United Nations Development Group (UNDG) Task Team for Gender Equality. Between 2007 and 2010, Dr. Doraid served as the Deputy Executive Director for Partnerships, Resource Mobilization and Operations of UNIFEM, effecting the tripling of the Fund’s revenue and delivery. He was the main UNIFEM interlocutor in the intergovernmental and interagency negotiations that led to the establishment of UN Women. Dr. Doraid also served for three terms as the Chair of the UN Development Group’s Working Group on Programming Issues. Before joining UNIFEM, Dr. Doraid served as UN Resident Coordinator/UNDP Resident Representative in Kuwait, where he led the UN system’s support to Kuwaiti women in exercising their political rights after they won suffrage. He was also the main interlocutor between the large presence in Kuwait of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and the Kuwaiti government. During 2004–2005, he served as the UN Humanitarian Coordinator, UN Resident Coordinator, a.i., and UNDP’s Officer in Charge in Maldives. As Resident Coordinator, he commissioned and managed the production of a seminal report that was the major impetus for the country’s democratization. Following the 2004 tsunami, he coordinated international assistance to the relief and recovery effort, playing a key role in mobilizing substantial foreign assistance to the island nation. Earlier, Dr. Doraid was a Senior Advisor, Regional Bureau for Arab States, UNDP, where he managed regional programmes for inclusive governance, environmental sustainability, information and communication technology for development, and women’s empowerment. Dr. Doraid was a co-author of the first seminal Arab Human Development Report, which identified the deficits in political participation, education, and women’s empowerment as the main impediments to the development of Arab countries. Prior, Dr. Doraid established and headed UNDP’s Regional Resource Facility for Arab States based in Beirut, providing programmatic and policy support to UNDP Country Offices across the Arab region. In the 1990s, he co-authored six of UNDP’s Global Human Development Reports on poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, globalization, etc. Earlier, he served as Assistant Resident Representative, UNDP, Sudan, where he managed participatory poverty reduction programmes serving half a million people in Kordofan, war-stricken Darfur, and South Sudan. Dr. Doraid has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the American University in Cairo; a Master’s in Public Administration focusing on development from Harvard University; and a Ph.D. in Economics from the Lebanese University.

Mr. Mohammad Alanzi

Director of Strategic Partnerships, International Islamic Charity Organization (IICO) | United Arab Emirates

Mohammad Alanzi is the Director of Strategic Partnerships at the International Islamic Charity Organization (IICO), a role he has held since December 2023. With over 20 years of experience in the healthcare sector, he has built a distinguished career spanning venture capital investment, healthcare training and education, the pharmaceutical industry, and pharmacy practice. For 14 years, he held leadership and management positions in Kuwait’s healthcare sector, driving innovation and growth. Before joining IICO, Mohammad spearheaded the establishment and expansion of Life Sciences Academy (LSA), the first healthcare academy in Kuwait and the Gulf region. Under his leadership, LSA transformed continuous professional development for healthcare professionals by leveraging partnerships with over 15 academic institutions and hospitals. The academy trained more than 17,000 professionals within its first seven years, reshaping medical education delivery and legislation in Kuwait. Earlier in his career, Mohammad played a key role in founding the Kuwait Life Sciences Company (KLSC), a subsidiary of the Kuwait Investment Authority, aimed at developing a specialized healthcare investment arm for Kuwait and the Gulf region. As Chief Operating Officer, he contributed to the growth of multiple portfolio investment companies while also serving as a board member. He previously worked as a Senior Investment Manager at the National Technology Enterprises Company (NTEC), where he engaged in venture capital investments and collaborated with European venture capital funds in Munich and Zurich. Mohammad holds a master’s degree (with distinction) in Business Administration, specializing in Strategic Management, as well as a Pharmacy degree from Sunderland University, England. He began his career in Scotland as a trainee pharmacist, later working as a community pharmacist in London with “Boots The Chemists”, where he provided counseling and healthcare services to a diverse, international patient base. Upon returning to Kuwait, he transitioned into business development at Kuwait Saudi Pharmaceutical Industries, leading strategic initiatives in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Beyond his professional career, Mohammad is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) by the International Coach Federation (ICF, USA). He has also earned credentials as an Authorized Team Facilitator and Certified Career Advisor. Passionate about career development and leadership, he actively supports professionals and executives in their career journey. Mohammad has served as a Jury Panelist for the Kuwait E-Content Award, sponsored by the Kuwait Foundation for Scientific Advancement (KFAS), where he evaluated top medical e-content in Arabic. He was also an elected board member of the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association (KuPha), representing Kuwaiti pharmacists in both public and private sectors. His contributions extend to scientific reviews and co-translation of the acclaimed Co-Active Coaching Book, enriching Arabic-language resources in leadership and coaching. As a writer, he shares insights on leadership, career development, and change on his blog, AlanziZone, and is a regular contributor to Al-Anbaa newspaper in Kuwait. Recently, he became a Certified Change Management Practitioner (ProSci), dedicated to facilitating organizational and team transformations.

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali

CEO and Founder of the New TRENDS Research and Advisory | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Mohammad Al-Ali is The CEO and Founder of the new TRENDS Research & Advisory & Senior Researcher/Writer and an Emirati author, specializing in strategic and political affairs. Dr. Al-Ali received a Ph.D. in Criminology from Mutah University. He obtained a Master of Arts in Diplomacy from the American University in the Emirates, and a Bachelor’s in media, radio, and television from the UAE University. He has vast experience in the media where he supervised magazines and academic journals covering and analyzing regional and international developments. He has worked as Editor-in-Chief of several scholarly periodicals and has held important positions in think-tanks. Dr. Al-Ali has produced several studies including The Role of Electronic Press in Creating Awareness Among the Youth in Arab Gulf Countries, published in the Annals of Arts and Social Sciences in Kuwait. He has also presented numerous research papers at various international conferences.

Mr. Mohsen Sarhan

Chief Executive Officer, Egyptian Food Bank | United Arab Emirates

Mohsen Sarhan, CEO Of Egyptian Food Bank A poverty-graduation theorist and executive, with a research interest at the nexus of social mobility, innovation, and inclusive growth. Mohsen lives & leads with simplicity, authenticity, and accountability. Mohsen is the CEO of the Egyptian Food Bank, the leading food security nonprofit in the Middle East and Africa, and the inspiration behind more than 88 food banks globally. He leads a team of 400 Egyptian development experts passionate about leaving an impact in the society. Besides leading the Food Bank, Mohsen serves as a Trustee of the Egyptian Social Takaful organization, one of Egypt’s largest and oldest nonprofits, and he regularly lectures at two of his alma maters, The American University in Cairo and Cairo University. Mohsen’s visionary thoughts are currently transforming the civil work in Egypt, leading a strong drive into understanding the impact realized on individual beneficiaries, a wider societal goal rather than standing on the delivery of services. In 2020, he received the prestigious MEI Visionary award for the Food Bank’s leadership of one of the largest relief campaigns in history by a nonprofit, targeting the support of daily laborers through the COVID pandemic. Sarhan graduated from Cairo University's Faculty of Economics and Political Science with a bachelor's degree in economics. He holds a GD in International Markets from the Arab Academy, a master’s degree in development management from the American University in Cairo, and a master's degree in public administration from Harvard University (USA).

Dr. Mukesh Kapila

Professor Emeritus, Global Health & Humanitarian Affairs, University of Manchester; Former Under Secretary-General, IFRC | United Arab Emirates

Mukesh Kapila has extensive experience in humanitarian affairs, conflict and security, global health and international development, human rights and diplomacy, He has qualifications in medicine and public health from the Universities of Oxford and London. He is Professor Emeritus of Global Health and Humanitarian Affairs, University of Manchester, and Senior Adviser to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean. His previous leadership functions have included senior directorships at the World Health Organization and United Nations, and as Undersecretary-General at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Previously he was Head of Conflict & Humanitarian Affairs at what is now the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office. He has served on several Boards, including chairing Minority Rights Group International, and Nonviolent Peaceforce which was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2016. Also advised many multilateral institutions including the World Bank. UN agencies, and international NGOs. His many awards include a CBE from King Charles III, a Global Citizenship Award, the “I Witness!” award for human rights, and a special resolution of the California State Legislature for “lifetime achievements and meritorious service”. His first memoir “Against a Tide of Evil” was shortlisted for the 2013 Best Non-Fiction Book award. His further book (2019) is entitled “Not a Stranger to Kindness”. He is a public and media speaker, and his writings can be sampled on https://www.mukeshkapila.org.

H.E. Nena Stoiljkovic

Under Secretary-General for Global Relations, Humanitarian Diplomacy, and Digitalization, IFRC | United Arab Emirates

Nena Stoiljkovic, Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalization, IFRC The Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalization ensures the IFRC has a strong collective voice that defines and influences humanitarian agendas. Nena joined the IFRC in October 2020, having worked on global development issues such as climate change, gender, and fragile and conflict-affected situations for over 30 years. This includes through her previous role as Vice President for Asia and Pacific for the International Finance Corporation (IFC). At the IFC, Nena promoted development finance innovation in a variety of leadership roles, including efforts to build a new architecture for development finance with other institutions, governments and the private sector. She helped shape the World Bank Group strategy, working with the International Development Association on a pioneering private sector window to catalyse greater private investment in low-income and conflict-affected countries.

Mr. Ovais Sarmad

Independent Adviser on Multilateralism, Climate Change and Sustainability; Vice Chair, Greenhouse Gas Protocol Steering Committee; Former Deputy Executive Secretary/ASG, UNFCCC | United Arab Emirates

Ovais Sarmad, Vice Chair – Green House Gas Protocol (GHG-P) Steering Committee, Former Deputy Executive Secretary / ASG at UNFCCC, Former IOM Chief of Staff & Director of Cabinet Mr. Ovais Sarmad served the United Nations Climate Change secretariat (UNFCCC) – COP23 to COP 27. During his tenure, he managed the UNFCCC secretariat operations, advised Executive Secretaries on a range of issues relating to the strategic operations planning and development of the organization. He guided the process-related and operational aspects of five COPs, including through the uncertainties of COVID-19 pandemic, completion of Paris Agreement implementation guidelines including Article 6 at Glasgow and the establishment of Loss & Damage fund at Sharm-el-Sheikh. He initiated a secretariat-wide structure review/implementation and a new budget process through a consultative process with all stakeholders. He finalized the first ever comprehensive strategic framework and initiated the first ever annual report for United Nations Climate Change. He established a successful Resources Mobilization & Partnership function to enhance fund-raising and public/private sector partnerships and undertook a secretariat-wide restructuring process to make the organization fit-for-purpose and to move to the implementation era of the Paris Agreement. He contributed to and spoke at various fora at the global level on climate change, migration and multilateralism and engaged in public policy discourse and development.

H.E. Panos Moumtzis

Executive Director and Former United Nations Assistant Secretary General, Global Executive Leadership Initiative (GELI) | United Arab Emirates

Panos Moumtzis, Executive Director of the Global Executive Leadership Initiative (GELI) Panos Moumtzis is a humanitarian practitioner and executive leadership coach, with over 30 years of experience working in humanitarian emergencies primarily in Africa and the Middle East. He has served the United Nations in various capacities including as Regional Humanitarian Coordinator - ASG for the Syria crisis (2017-2019), as Director of the IASC Peer to Peer initiative (2013-2017), as UNHCR’s Regional Refugee Coordinator for the Syria situation (2012 - 2013), as Humanitarian Coordinator in Libya (2011), and as Director for UNRWA Syria (2006 - 2009). Mr. Moumtzis began his career as UNRWA Refugee Affairs Officer in the Gaza Strip in 1990. He went on to fulfill roles in public information and external relations for UNHCR covering refugee crises in Iraq, East Africa, Kenya, Somalia, Rwanda, Burundi, as well as serving as the UNHCR spokesperson in the USA. Mr. Moumtzis is a Greek national and was born in Egypt. He is fluent in Arabic, English and French. Panos holds a B.A. in Political Science and International Relations from Athens Law School (Greece), and an M.A. in Middle East Politics and Economics from Exeter University (U.K). He is married, with three children. Mr. Moumtzis is a firm believer in the role that ethical leadership plays in creating transformation; for oneself, one’s team and most importantly, for the people we serve.

H.E. Patricia Danzi

Director-General, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) | United Arab Emirates

H.E. Ambassador Patricia Danzi has been Director-General of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) since May 2020. Prior to her engagement with SDC, she spent 23 years with the International Red Cross, both in the field and at headquarters, and became Regional Director for Africa. Patricia Danzi studied in Lincoln, Nebraska and in Zurich and holds a master’s degree in agricultural economics, geography and environmental science. She undertook postgraduate work in development studies in Geneva. She speaks seven languages and is the mother of two adult sons.

Mr. Rami Adwan

Head of Arab Relations, UNRWA | United Arab Emirates

Rami is the Head of Arab Relations with UNRWA, leading donor relations across the Arab Region and leading donor-funded programs. Rami is a C Level professional with over 25 years of experience in senior executive roles and leading major transformative programmes in the private sector and the non-profit sectors spanning multiple geographies spanning Jordan, North America, and the Gulf region. Rami was the Resident Representative / Country Director for the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) in Jordan. This is a Dutch NGO working on political development in over 20 countries worldwide; Chief Executive Officer of the Electronic Health Solutions (EHS), Jordan’s national e-Health program and the chief executive officer of the Jordan Air Ambulance Center, heading Jordan’s medical evacuation service. Rami had previously served as member of the board of directors for the Jordan Engineering Association's pension fund and the Jordan ICT association, INTAJ. He is currently a member of the board of trustees for the Politics and Society Institute, and the Jordan Medical Aid for Palestinians. Rami holds a B.Eng. in Electronic Engineering from King’s College, University of London, an M.Sc. in Communications Systems from University of Wales at Swansea, and an MBA from Concordia University of Montreal. Rami holds the Canadian Securities Certificate and is a certified project manager and certified change manager.

Ms. Safa’ Al Jayoussi

Global Climate Lead, Oxfam International | United Arab Emirates

Safa' Al Jayoussi (She/Her) Interim Global Climate Lead, Oxfam International Safa' Al Jayoussi is an accomplished and internationally recognized Environmental Advocate and Climate Justice Expert with over 15 years of experience in the civil society field. She has spearheaded major campaigns and founded influential networks and coalitions, including the “Climate Action Network Arab World,” to advance climate justice and drive systemic change. An official observer in UNFCCC climate change negotiations since 2009, Safa' has established herself as a global reference for Arab World climate policy. Currently serving as Interim Global Climate Lead at Oxfam International, Safa' previously held the position of MENA Regional Climate Justice Advisor, where she developed and advanced climate justice strategies and acted as a focal point for programmatic, advocacy, and campaign efforts across the region and the global climate movement. Prior to joining Oxfam, she led impactful regional advocacy and programmatic efforts for organizations like Greenpeace and Save the Children. Additionally, she served as Chair of the Board for Climate Action Network International for four years, guiding the global climate movement and fostering collaboration across regions.

Dr. Suaad Alshamsi

Aircraft Engineer, Technical Advisor, Women in Aviation Middle East | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Eng. Suaad Al Shamsi, graduated with DBA in aviation management from American academy for specialized studies as well as he she is holding MBA from Coventry University in aviation management, Master in Aeronautical engineering from coventry university as well as she is holding degree in Aerospace Engineering from Hertfordshire University along with Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from UK. She has honored an honorary Doctorate for the role of women in leadership and women empowerment. She embarked on this journey in the aviation industry when she joined many leading companies involved in aviation as a part of her training in aircraft engineering field such as Messier Bugatti, Honeywell, Kunz, Airbus and Boeing. She joined emirates airlines as first aircraft engineer in UAE and been working in maintenance field for more than 17 years and continue her growth in the aviation and now she is working as technical advisor for one of the biggest aviation project in UAE. She is one alumni members of the emirates association in the UK, one of members of IEEE, as well as one of the founders of woman in aviation organization Middle East chapter. Also VP women in aviation ( shenana) beside she is the chief executive officer of L2L [learn to live] consultation company. She is the Ambassador of the international union for technical education in UAE and starting her own aviation program called [ top takeoff ] to empower young girls and women in enter the aviation industry. Awarded many awards and appreciate during her young journey as she been in awarded : 1- The best female influencer in aviation field for year 2023 woman in aviation under the patronage of HH sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al maktoum. 2- Emirates women award under the patronage of HH sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum 3- Committed to sustainability initiatives of women in aviation sustainability award under the patronage of HH sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al maktoum. 4- Future innovation award under the patronage of HH Sheikh Saqr bin Muhammad Al Qasimi 5- Gold award from Emirates group as a role of Emarati lady engineer, beside her awarded of fast track award from Emirates airline. 6- Emaratia shield privilege in Abu Dhabi and creative women in aviation engineering by shiekha fatima bint khalid alqasimi. 7- The Oscars accomplished Arabs and the women award for arab creativity. She has been outstanding representing United Arab Emirates Female image in Shanghai Expo 2010 and presenting as a jury member in star of Science program. She is the main jury in James dyson awards in UAE for four years. Her name included in creative women in UAE Wikipedia by her highness sheikha shamsa wife of Sheikh Khalifa. She been speaker in many forums and conferences in UAE, gulf countries and worldwide such as woman in aviation conference in Dubai world trade Centre 2019, powerful woman in Egypt opera in 2019, woman in aviation industry forum in Bahrain in 2018, aviation gathering forum in Bahrain in 2018, top of her game in emirate tower, powerful woman engineer in new York city in 2018.. Etc. Besides the love of aviation, she loved reading and seeking knowledge and through her love she released Novel books one in 2016,second one in 2017 and two in 2018.

H.E. Sultan Mohammed Al Shamsi

Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development Affairs and International Organizations, Vice Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency | United Arab Emirates

Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development Affairs and International Organizations, Vice Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency

H.E. Ugochi Daniels

Deputy Director General of Operations, International Organization for Migration - IOM, UN Migration | United Arab Emirates

Ms. Ugochi Daniels was appointed as IOM's Deputy Director General of Operations, taking office on September 1, 2021. Prior to joining IOM, Ugochi Daniels was the Chief of Staff at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), covering Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the Occupied Palestinian Territory. She was also the United Nations Resident Coordinator and Designated Official for Security in the Islamic Republic of Iran from 2018 to 2020. From 2013 to 2018, Ugochi Daniels was the Chief of the Humanitarian and Fragile Contexts Branch at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Headquarters, covering over seventy countries where UNFPA was responding to emergencies. Her stint at UNFPA includes assignments in the Philippines (Country Representative, 2010–2013) and Nepal (Deputy Representative, 2007–2010). Ms. Daniels joined the UNFPA in 2002 as the Deputy Program Manager for Africa Youth Alliance (2002–2007), covering Ghana, Tanzania, Botswana, and Uganda. Prior to joining the UN, Ms. Daniels was the Monitoring and Evaluation Information Specialist of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission in Nigeria from 1999 to 2002. Ms. Daniels also has private sector experience, having worked in the information technology, manufacturing, and financial services industries from 1992 to 1999. Ms. Daniels is recognized as a UN (S)hero for her advocacy of women's health in humanitarian emergencies and her commitment to protecting human rights and promoting peace. She is dedicated to solving global problems through peace and development partnerships and emphasizes justice, equality, and community engagement. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Geography, a Post-graduate Diploma in Information Management for Business Decisions and is a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer.