logo
A strategic partnership between Markaz and Loyac to nurture and develop young talents

A strategic partnership between Markaz and Loyac to nurture and develop young talents

Zawya09-02-2025

Kuwait: Reaffirming its active role in promoting corporate social responsibility, Kuwait Financial Centre "Markaz" concludes 23 years of fruitful and ongoing partnership with Loyac, a local non-profit organization focused on youth development in Kuwait and other Arab countries. The partnership stems from Markaz's efforts to help enable the youth and nurture a new generation of leaders in alignment with the 'building human capacity' pillar of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy.
The annual partnership between Markaz and Loyac encompasses various key aspects of social and developmental programs with the aim to enhance the capabilities of the youth, both personally and professionally, helping ensure that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive and contribute effectively in the job market. Through Markaz's support, the Loyac team managed and completed over 60 initiatives within the year 2024.
Commenting on Markaz's pivotal role in this long-standing partnership, Mr. Diraar Y. Alghanim, Chairman at Markaz, said: 'Markaz has continuously sought out key initiatives that are mission-driven and sustainable, and more importantly, reflect the values and beliefs of Markaz. Our continued support of Loyac, and the myriad of initiatives that we find imperative to the development of the youth and community stems from our shared belief in building human capacity and empowering the next generation of young leaders. We are proud to contribute to this mission through a variety of initiatives focused on community, education, culture, sports and entrepreneurship, and witnessing the impact it leaves behind.'
Commenting on Markaz's approach to community engagement, Mr. Ali H. Khalil, Chief Executive Officer at Markaz, stated: 'Our collaboration with Loyac represents a cornerstone of our vision to cultivate a society where youth are not only equipped with the necessary skills but empowered to redefine possibilities through a business-oriented mindset fostered during their participation in Loyac's programs. This partnership allows us to champion initiatives that nurture creativity, leadership, and resilience, ensuring that the next generation is ready to face the challenges of tomorrow, with a mindset that embraces confidence and purpose. It is through such endeavors that we reaffirm our commitment to building a legacy of impact and innovation.'
Building on this shared commitment, Mr. Abdullatif Al-Nusif, Managing Director, Wealth Management and Business Development at Markaz, added: 'Our commitment to being a partner in wealth creation extends to empowering future generations and promoting a culture of responsibility and innovation. Our partnership with Loyac showcases the profound impact of community-driven initiatives that inspire and equip youth to become agents of change. By supporting Loyac's impactful programs and actively contributing to the community, we aim to cultivate an environment where talent and purpose align to advance long-term societal development.'
Ms. Fareah Al Saqqaf, Chairman at Loyac, said: "We take great pride in our long-standing partnership with Markaz, which began at the inception stage and reflects our shared vision through Loyac's journey. This partnership has been translated into several impactful programs that directly contribute to creating sustainable value for the youth within communities. Markaz plays a fundamental and pivotal role in empowering youth and the community through Loyac Kuwait and its branches."
Community Empowerment Initiatives
Markaz's partnership with Loyac in a diverse series of initiatives has significantly contributed to creating a positive social impact. Through programs such as the Winter Aid Distribution Initiative, Green Volunteering, Homes Program, Neqsat Ramadan, Service Is My Joy Program, and the LOYAC X NAEMATI community service initiatives, among others, Markaz has supported underprivileged communities, promoted environmental awareness, and fostered inclusive engagement for individuals with diverse needs.
Professional Empowerment Programs
On a professional level, Markaz supports various key initiatives by Loyac, one of which is the Al Jawhar Program, organized by Loyac Academy of Performing Arts (LAPA). The annual program aims to supply Kuwait youth with the tools needed to become successful media representatives and manage fruitful dialogues. The program also celebrates iconic media personalities that have contributed to the formation of Arab culture at large to build stronger cultural bridges that connect generations. Several Markaz team members were part of the different seasons of the program. The Jawhar Podcast program was also launched as a professional platform to support in transitioning passionate young media enthusiasts from training to professional practice. This initiative helps empower them in the job market and provides them with an exceptional opportunity to reach audiences, marking a true launch of their careers in the media industry.
Additionally, Markaz collaborated through LAPA with the TV media presenter, Ms. Rania Barghout, to conduct a series of training carefully crafted for Markaz staff members, to develop their public communication and speech delivery skills. The intensive training included several key areas, such as the fundamentals of public speaking with a focus on using body language intelligently to enhance the message, breathing and relaxation techniques to manage nerves, crafting speech content tailored to the specific audience and their needs, skills for both prepared and impromptu speaking, overcoming the fear of public speaking, handling media interactions, managing questions, and effectively communicating during crises. Over 30 staff members from Markaz have successfully completed the training course.
Life Skills Empowerment Programs & Workshops
The two entities collaborated on several initiatives to develop life and personal skills, including workshops such as the 7 Habits for Highly Effective People and Teens Workshops, the Young Leaders Program (UK), the Kon Social Entrepreneurship Program, and the Photography Workshop have provided participants with tools to enhance communication, leadership, and critical thinking. By engaging in these programs, Markaz's employees and their families have embraced opportunities for self-improvement and active contribution to a culture of resilience, creativity, and community empowerment, reinforcing Markaz's commitment to sustainable development.
Health and Physical Empowerment
Markaz is a leading supporter of the Loyac AC Milan Soccer School, which aims to continue introducing world-class and innovative coaching practices within Kuwait, helping the youth within the nation to fine-tune their abilities and compete at a high standard.
Markaz continues its more than 15 years of endorsement of the activities of the academy, which has led to the training of more than 780 young players who have developed their skills on the field, learning from international experts, and providing a nurturing structure for youth and children in Kuwait to train and compete in both local and international tournaments, and unleashing their potential.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Markaz places sustainability at the heart of its vision, mission, and values, embodying its unwavering commitment to ethical practices, fairness, and responsible action. Through a comprehensive corporate social and economic responsibility strategy, Markaz actively contributes to community development and the advancement of a resilient and sustainable economy in Kuwait. This approach reflects Markaz's sense of responsibility toward society and the national economy, addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges with innovative, forward-thinking solutions.
-Ends-
About Kuwait Financial Centre 'Markaz'
Established in 1974, Kuwait Financial Centre K.P.S.C 'Markaz' is one of the leading asset management and investment banking institutions in the MENA region with total assets under management of over KD 1.39 billion (USD 4.56 billion) as of 30 September 2024. Markaz was listed on the Boursa Kuwait in 1997. Over the years, Markaz has pioneered innovation through the creation of new investment channels. These channels enjoy unique characteristics and help Markaz widen investors' horizons. Examples include Mumtaz (the first domestic mutual fund), MREF (the first real estate investment fund in Kuwait), and Forsa Financial Fund (the first options market maker in the GCC since 2005), all conceptualized, established, and managed by Markaz.
For further information, please contact:
Sondos Saad
Corporate Communications Department
Kuwait Financial Centre K.P.S.C. "Markaz"
Email: Ssaad@markaz.com
markaz.com

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

MBRF and Bibliotheca Alexandrina Partner to Boost Arab Knowledge Access
MBRF and Bibliotheca Alexandrina Partner to Boost Arab Knowledge Access

Hi Dubai

time12 hours ago

  • Hi Dubai

MBRF and Bibliotheca Alexandrina Partner to Boost Arab Knowledge Access

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) and Egypt's Bibliotheca Alexandrina (BA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance knowledge accessibility, particularly for people with disabilities, through innovative joint projects. The agreement, formalized by MBRF CEO Jamal bin Huwaireb and BA Director Dr. Ahmed Zayed, focuses on creating DAISY-format digital talking books to support visually impaired individuals. It also includes plans for joint training, expertise exchange in library science, and organizing cultural and knowledge-based events. Signed in Dubai, the MoU underscores both institutions' commitment to fostering intellectual development across the Arab world. It aims to build inclusive knowledge ecosystems that drive sustainable growth and empower communities. 'This partnership marks a milestone in making knowledge a cornerstone of sustainable development,' said bin Huwaireb. 'We aim to empower individuals and strengthen communities for future challenges.' Dr. Zayed emphasized the alignment with BA's mission, stating, 'This collaboration will spark initiatives that ensure inclusive access to intellectual resources, promoting societal progress.' The agreement strengthens regional efforts to enhance knowledge access through innovative content and training, positioning MBRF and BA as leaders in cultivating knowledge-driven societies. News Source: Emirates News Agency

International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council launches 'Impact Makers' initiative
International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council launches 'Impact Makers' initiative

Al Etihad

time14 hours ago

  • Al Etihad

International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council launches 'Impact Makers' initiative

10 June 2025 14:45 ABU DHABI (WAM) His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, stressed the importance of enriching humanitarian content as an institutional and societal responsibility shared by media institutions and digital content responsibility is vital considering the unlimited support of the UAE's leadership in equipping young Arab talent with advanced tools and skills in storytelling related to humanitarian and development Highness elaborated that highlighting humanitarian efforts and developmental contributions is crucial for community solidarity as they impact positively the lives of millions of people across the world. He noted that the UAE was implementing significant humanitarian initiatives and projects that reflected its leading global remarks came on the launch of the 'Impact Makers' initiative by the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council in cooperation with the New Media initiative comprises several educational programmes and training workshops on digital media content creation with regard to humanitarian and developmental work. His Highness Sheikh Theyab asserted the need to empower individuals to forge positive and influential content that addresses humanitarian issues, increases community awareness through storytelling and appropriate media efforts are especially pertinent with respect to initiatives aimed to provide basic services to communities in areas such as healthcare and education, which will eventually result in prosperity, stability and initiative targets journalists, camera crew and content creators from the UAE, Arab world and other countries specialising in humanitarian and developmental affairs. Its goal is to help them enhance their skills in telling humanitarian stories, preparing media content, and producing audio and visual programmes across diverse digital platforms in more creative and appealing initiative also will train official spokespersons representing UAE-based humanitarian donor organisations and charitable associations in corporate reputation strategies and media crisis New Media Academy continues to support content creators and social media influencers, enabling them to deliver their message in a professional manner that contributes to social growth. The "Impact Makers" initiative includes several training modules, beginning with the "Spokesperson Skills, Media Appearance, and Crisis Management in the Media" programme, the "Humanitarian Impact Journalism" programme, and the "Humanitarian Impact Content Creators" programme. The last of these will include two versions, one of which will be done in partnership with the Arab Youth Centre.

Sharjah debuts at Readmagine 2025
Sharjah debuts at Readmagine 2025

Sharjah 24

time14 hours ago

  • Sharjah 24

Sharjah debuts at Readmagine 2025

During the international event, SBA participated in a session titled "Empowering Emirati publishers through the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur)", featuring Iman Ben Chaibah, Director of strategic initiatives and global markets at SBA, alongside Shatha Nasser, founder of Kairos Publishing House and one of the winners in the fund's inaugural launch track. Onshur draws global interest as a blueprint for sustainability In the session, Iman Ben Chaibah reaffirmed Sharjah's commitment to shaping a sustainable and resilient future for the publishing industry in the UAE and the wider region. She introduced Onshur as a strategic initiative designed to empower publishers through three integrated tracks: launch, scale and disrupt. 'The fund was established to address a fundamental challenge: how to ensure the continued strength and growth of the publishing sector over the long term. It responds to this need by offering a well-rounded framework of training, financial backing and professional mentorship, equipping publishers to tackle industry demands and grow their businesses with assurance and skill.' She went on to credit the vision of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, for shaping the fund's comprehensive framework. 'Onshur offers a fully integrated support system that combines professional guidance, targeted training and access to a network of industry partners and specialists. It also provides practical resources such as trade licences, co-working spaces, affordable printing services and translation support. We were encouraged by the strong international interest in the Onshur model during the event, and we have already scheduled several follow-up meetings to explore potential areas of collaboration.' Publishing with purpose For her part, Shatha Nasser shared her journey into publishing, explaining that a simple search for a Spanish novel to recommend to a young Arab reader highlighted a broader cultural gap. Many important literary works had yet to be translated into Arabic. She discovered that many significant literary works remained inaccessible in Arabic. This realisation became the driving force behind the launch of Kairos, a publishing initiative committed to translating classic literature from Spanish, Italian and Portuguese into Arabic, to broaden access to global literary heritage and enrich the region's cultural landscape. She went on to highlight the pivotal role that Onshur played in shaping her professional journey. 'The fund provided a comprehensive foundation of mentorship, expertise and industry connections that enabled my entry into the publishing sector. It offered practical knowledge across all stages of book production, from acquiring publishing rights to distribution. With the support of a grant, I was able to establish the publishing house and release titles. It was the true starting point for a locally rooted publishing house with an international outlook.' Sharjah's Onshur sparks global dialogue The session attracted one of the highest levels of engagement at Readmagine 2025, sparking in-depth discussions around the structure of the Onshur Fund and the potential for replicating its model in other markets. Participants praised the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi and expressed their appreciation for this forward-thinking initiative, describing it as a compelling example of how to support publishers and promote long-term sustainability in the book industry. Many also voiced their hope that cultural institutions in other countries would consider adopting similar frameworks, recognising the fund's proven success in empowering publishers and fostering a dynamic, innovation-driven publishing environment.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store