Latest news with #MartinaStrong
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Students 'great ideas' to boost UAE-US ties, says top official
Students in the UAE — the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs — are set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the strategic partnership between UAE and the United States, said Martina Strong, US Ambassador to the UAE, during a recent event in Dubai. Her remarks pointed at the importance of youth engagement and cross-border innovation as critical elements in advancing UAE-US bilateral cooperation across future-focused sectors. Speaking at a ceremony that honoured students for their entrepreneurial achievements, Strong highlighted the enduring and evolving partnership between the two nations. 'We are at the core very entrepreneurial, very pioneering as nations, as people, as companies, as private sectors and I think that aligns us so well as partners in so many different fields,' she said. According to Wam, the UAE is already home to more than 1,800 American companies, and this number is expected to grow due to the positive impact of the visit. The Injaz event, which celebrated youth-led innovation, came just weeks after US President Donald Trump concluded his historic visit to the UAE, the final leg of his Gulf tour following stops in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Speaking at the event, Strong said: 'As many of you know, we had a big visit just a couple of weeks ago here. President Trump came to Abu Dhabi. It was a historic visit…an amazing visit. I hope that those of you who watched it on TV got a sense of the excitement and energy that this visit generated, but it was also very substantive.' Trump arrived in Abu Dhabi on May 15 and was officially welcomed by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The ceremony also included members of the community, such as outstanding students from space camps, astronauts, and space mission engineers. During his meeting with Sheikh Mohamed, Trump underscored the strong and enduring partnership between the US and the UAE. The visiting President later toured the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Notably, the visit marked the first by a US president to the UAE since 2008. Students to propel partnership Strong noted that the discussions between the two leaders focused on long-term mutual gains. 'It should not surprise you that the two presidents, US President Trump and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed, focused on our shared prosperity as kind of a key pillar of our bilateral partnership going forward,' she said. UAE announced a $1.4 trillion investment in artificial intelligence in the US and expressed the country's desire to collaborate with the US in promoting global peace and stability. 'They talked about all of the major fields in which we are working together, from artificial intelligence and frontier technology to energy, space exploration, health, life sciences. It's a very, long list,' Strong added. 'But suffice it to say that the two presidents charted a very ambitious path forward … and as I thought about who is going to get all this work done, I think I know it's going to be all of you (students) and your great work, your great ideas, innovation, creativity that will propel our partnership forward in the years ahead.' Reaffirming the US mission's commitment to supporting youth innovation, Strong added, 'The US mission is truly proud to support entrepreneurship among our young generations because it advances our shared objective, and that objective is prosperity for today and for years and decades to come. This is generated through economic growth, through innovation, cooperation and partnerships and really taking advantage of the opportunities.'
Mid East Info
3 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
From Classroom to Boardroom: INJAZ UAE Celebrates 20 Years of Transforming Student Potential into Enterprise
Winning ideas showcased in presence of HE Martina Strong, US Ambassador to the UAE, address sustainability, social impact, and real-world business challenges Over 800 students pitch innovative solutions in UAE's largest youth entrepreneurship showcase Dubai, UAE, May, 2025: INJAZ UAE, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to business education and youth empowerment, marked its 20th anniversary by crowning the next generation of entrepreneurs at the 16th National Company Program Competition. Held at the Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah and attended by Her Excellency Martina Strong, US Ambassador to the UAE, the event brought together more than 800 students from across the UAE to present their startup ventures to a panel of business leaders and industry experts. Celebrating a major milestone, the annual competition is a cornerstone of INJAZ UAE's mission to prepare students for the future of work through hands-on, real-world learning. This year, 20 finalist teams — 10 from high schools and 10 from universities — emerged from a national pool of 76 teams, representing more than 40% Emirati youth participation. 2025 National Company Program Winners: This year's winners demonstrated bold thinking, business acumen, and a strong sense of purpose. Top honors went to: Company of the year: Raicom Product of the year: Aerosense Sustainability Award: Sustainly Best financial plan: Convi Best marketing plan: Thryve CEO of the Year: Bhavya Paliwal of team Aerosense Company of the year: Taqdeer Product of the year: Sustainability Heroes: Kleva CEO of the year: Lateefa Alnoaimi of team Kleva In addition to the top titles, the competition awarded several prestigious recognitions, including the Honeywell Sustainability Award and Mashreq Bank Best Financial Plan Award in the High School category, and the Nestlé Sustainability Heroes Award for university students. These awards underscore the competition's emphasis on innovation, sustainability, financial literacy, and social impact—aligning closely with the UAE's National Agenda. Empowering Changemakers: Her Excellency Martina Strong, US Ambassador to the UAE, said: 'The US Mission to the UAE is proud to celebrate three years of partnership with INJAZ UAE in advancing entrepreneurship and economic opportunity. This collaboration reflects a results-driven approach, where American innovation and enterprise connect with Emirati talent to deliver real-world impact. We are focused on partnerships that create jobs, spur growth, and strengthen prosperity for both our nations.' Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, commented: 'Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with INJAZ UAE in supporting the next generation of innovators. This competition reflects our shared commitment to empowering youth with the entrepreneurial mindset and digital skills needed to succeed in today's fast-evolving economy. The creativity and purpose demonstrated by these young entrepreneurs signal a bright future for the UAE's innovation ecosystem.' Commenting on the success of the event, Razan Bashiti, CEO of INJAZ UAE, said: 'At INJAZ UAE, we see our students not just as learners, but as future leaders and changemakers. The work we do here through Injaz is what we often like to call the 'unseen curriculum' – going beyond the classroom to embolden confidence and creativity through real-world experience. This year's competition highlighted their ability to turn ideas into action and showcased the impact of two decades of youth empowerment in the UAE.' The judging panels were composed of leaders from top-tier organizations including Visa GCC, Shell, APCO, Accenture, Mashreq Bank, and Honeywell. For the high school track, esteemed panelists Ghiya Al-Haj-Hasan (Honeywell), Norman Tambach (Mashreq Bank), and Mohammed Bahaa (APCO) evaluated student projects, offering expert feedback. In the university track, Carl Manlan (Visa CEMEA), Fakher Bader (Shell), and Ramez T. Shehadi (Accenture) brought a wealth of industry experience to their assessments, guiding students with valuable insights. The CEO of the Year Awards were judged by Ahmed Abdelaal (Mashreq Bank) and Khaled Hashem (Honeywell), while the Signature Awards panel included Mohamed Al Dabaa (P&G), Salma Al Halaby (Nestlé), and Khalifa Al Rumathi (Majra). These professionals provided mentorship and feedback that enriched the learning experience for all participants. This year's edition was made possible through the support of INJAZ UAE's corporate partners: Accenture, ExxonMobil, Dubai Chamber – Digital, Marsh McLennan, Starbucks/Alshaya, Mashreq, Honeywell, and Nestlé. Since its founding in 2005, INJAZ UAE has reached over 756,000 students and continues to inspire entrepreneurial thinking through hands-on learning experiences. As part of the regional INJAZ Al-Arab network, which has empowered over 7 million youth across the Middle East and North Africa, INJAZ UAE continues to play a pivotal role in cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem that prepares young people to lead in a fast-changing economy.
Al Etihad
13-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
American Community School of Abu Dhabi honours Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi
13 May 2025 18:19 ABU DHABI (WAM)Under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS) honoured Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi with the 2025 ACS Community Leadership Award. The award was presented by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak during the 2025 ACS Gala, held on May 10, 2025 at the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. "Throughout its history, the American Community School has influenced education in our country and has helped to advance excellent practices. I applaud you for your dedication to educating young people, and in the process, changing the world for the better. I hope you know the esteem with which we in the UAE hold your school," Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak said in his opening remarks."I am delighted that your school has chosen to celebrate the Year of Community in the United Arab Emirates by coming together this evening under the banner: Together Shaping Dreams. Your focus on serving the community by providing excellent education reaffirms your leading role in defining what it means to be a successful school in Abu Dhabi and the UAE," he added. Lubna Al Qasmi remarked from the podium, "I am grateful for our founding fathers and our leaders today who put our people first, in support of education, health, career path and building the country. The UAE is truly a melting pot. The UAE is a magnet for greatness. It is the best of the present, and we pray it remains a global gem in the future. I appreciate this wonderful city that has been and is a home for this wonderful school, its alumni and its students and staff."The event was attended by Martina Strong, Ambassador of the United States to the UAE; Fredrik Floren, Ambassador of Sweden to the UAE; Alison Milton Ambassador of Ireland to the UAE; Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE; Samer Abdelhaq, General Counsel of UAE Department of Finance, Dr. Abdulla Al Shimmari, Executive Director UAE Department of Government Enablement and Nasser Al Nowais, Rotana Chairman and Diamond were joined by more than 550 guests, including distinguished leaders, supporters, and friends of the ACS community, in a moving tribute to Sheikha Lubna's contributions to the nation and the world, and her historic legacy of service, leadership, and impact."As we mark the UAE's Year of Community, it is especially fitting to recognise a leader who has devoted her career to strengthening communities in the UAE and beyond, and to fostering connections across cultures, sectors, and continents," said Ambassador Martina Strong. "Congratulations to Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi on receiving the ACS Community Leadership Award – an honour that reflects her visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to empowering others," she added. Monique Flickinger, ACS Superintendent, said, " This year, in the UAE's Year of Community, we were honoured to recognise a leader whose legacy transcends borders and generations. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi is a beacon of courage and conviction whose life's work continues to inspire a culture of leadership and compassion for our community."
Zawya
06-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
StartAD and U.S. Mission program for Emirati women entrepreneurs concludes with celebratory closing ceremony
The nine Emirati women-led businesses successfully completed the AWE 5.0 x EWA Bootcamp and are now equipped with the skills, mindset, and tools to explore global markets The ceremony was attended by the U.S. Ambassador to the UAE, Her Excellency Martina Strong Abu Dhabi, UAE: startAD, the Abu Dhabi-based global accelerator powered by Tamkeen and anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), along with the United States Mission to the UAE, held a closing ceremony to mark the completion of the fifth edition of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) UAE program. Launched during Eid Al Etihad, the AWE 5.0 x EWA Bootcamp is the result of a unique collaboration between the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) and the startAD Impact Hub for Emirati Women Achievers. Aligned with the International Women's Day theme of 'Accelerate Action' and the UAE's Year of Community, the Closing Ceremony held at the NYUAD campus welcomed United States Ambassador to the UAE, Her Excellency Martina Strong, who delivered remarks highlighting how AWE strengthens U.S.-UAE economic ties, expands opportunities for American businesses, and drives shared prosperity. The event was an opportunity for aspiring businesswomen to demonstrate their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit and to celebrate the impact of Emirati female-led ventures in global markets. The event featured live demonstrations, pitches, and networking opportunities for the ecosystem partners and the participating businesses. The program combined targeted workshops and training sessions, personalized mentorship, community events, and networking opportunities. The participants received certified training from NYUAD Executive Education, delivered by NYU Stern faculty, focusing on building a global mindset, internationalization strategies, leading cross-cultural teams, and partnership models for cross-border success. This edition also welcomed Agility, a leading logistics firm that powered the mentorship component by convening leading experts across various industries who provided custom coaching to entrepreneurs. This comprehensive approach equipped the Emirati Women Achievers with the knowledge, tools, and network to scale and bring their innovations to the world stage. Over the last five years, AWE UAE businesses have become an integral part of the local economy, generating $46 million in revenue, raising $13 million in funding, and creating 608 jobs. This year's cohort featured the following businesses: Centre for Musical Arts: a leading institution in the UAE, offering music education through instrumental and vocal lessons, ensemble training, and theory classes. RFLCT Creative Arts Centers: a hub for creative expression dedicated to eradicating artistic illiteracy and making art accessible to all. Rainbow Chimney: an e-commerce platform and a retail bookstore catering to children aged 0-13, including people of determination. Nexba HealthCare Supplies: a business producing 'locally made', reliable healthcare solutions. Jewels Autism Health Coaching: a unique social enterprise dedicated to supporting autistic individuals in improving their holistic health and well-being. Takalam: an award-winning digital platform advancing mental health across the MENA region. Meet the Locals: a social enterprise that offers highly customized and immersive cultural experiences in Dubai. Mineral Energy Natural Products: a business with natural solutions for severe eczema, which aims to improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from eczema and dry skin. HakayaOnline Literacy: the first digital literary and cultural platform in the UAE. U.S. Ambassador to the UAE Martina Strong commented: 'The AWE program is a strategic investment in the future of both the United States and the United Arab Emirates. By equipping women entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, and resources to build successful businesses, AWE is directly contributing to our shared prosperity and vision of the future. When U.S. expertise, investment, and innovation combine with the talent and ambition of Emirati entrepreneurs, we create economic opportunities that benefit both our countries.' Associate Director of startAD Nihal Shaikh said: 'With over 128,400 Emirati women Founded SMEs valued at more than USD 16 billion operating in the UAE, it is clear that Emirati women are a driving force in the UAE's economic transformation. Yet, expanding beyond domestic markets often remains a challenge. The AWE 5 x EWA Bootcamp is designed to ignite the global ambitions of Emirati women entrepreneurs. By providing world-class training, mentorship, and a thriving network, the program equips entrepreneurs to not only thrive locally but also explore becoming competitive players in the global economy.' The Impact Hub for Emirati Women Achievers (EWA) is a flagship initiative launched by startAD aligned with the National Strategy for Empowerment of Emirati Women, advances Emirati women in innovation and entrepreneurship. EWA offers tailored tracks, including Ambassadorship programs for leaders in corporate, government, and startups; Bootcamps and Market Access initiatives to scale local businesses globally; and a Conscious Investor Fellowship to train investors in funding impactful technologies. Its robust calendar of events connects professionals, mentors, and investors, fostering collaboration. To date, 105 Emirati Women Achievers have been commemorated, creating a ripple effect of support and opportunities for future generations. The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), launched in 2019 by the U.S. State Department under the leadership of Ivanka Trump, empowers women with the knowledge, networks, and access to launch or scale businesses. Implemented in nearly 120 countries, AWE has supported 25,000 women entrepreneurs globally. For more information about AWE UAE, please visit
Gulf Today
27-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Strong hails UAE-US ties at National Day celebrations
The USA Mission in the UAE, consisting of the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate General in Dubai, has re-emphasised its stand in pursuing its strategic priorities within the seven emirates and throughout the region as well. USA Ambassador to the UAE Martina Strong also stated on Tuesday evening that for all the 'shared endeavours' of both countries, 'I look forward to working with you in the months ahead and the years ahead.' Strong delivered the message at the Diplomatic Reception for the early celebration of the 249th founding anniversary of the USA, organised by the US Consulate General in Dubai and spearheaded by Consul General Robert Raines. The chief guest was UAE Minister of Artificial Intelligence/Digital Economy/Remote Work Applications Omar Sultan Al Olama. The theme of the Diplomatic Reception, whereby among guests were three of five UAE resident- winners of two international competitions – Taste of World Food Championships 2024 (Indianapolis, Indiana) and the NASA Space Apps International Challenge 2024 – Chef Hassan Naja, and Samira Rafiq Khan and Umamah Ali, respectively, was 'United in Building Tomorrow.' The 17th top diplomat of the USA to the UAE stressed that their National Day commemoration was not only about the salutation to all the 'proud moments' of their country and its citizens. It is, as well, those that have been gained with the leaders and peoples of the UAE. Strong said: 'Here in the United Arab Emirates, those achievements have always been together with our Emirati partners and our many Emirati friends. These feature the enduring partnership that the US and the UAE share. It is the friendships, the bonds of cooperation we have developed over the past six decades; also our shared interests. We are both entrepreneurial nations. We are very much a pioneering peoples always looking ahead and looking for opportunities and this is where all our efforts come in.' Saying that among the 'strategic priorities' of the two nations are about securing their territories and their prosperity, Medicine and Health, Sports, and Education, Strong expressed her gratitude to Al Olama, she described as really been a 'tremendous partner who challenged us and pushed us as partners to really advance towards the next horizon and the next frontier.' Milestones since the March 2, 1972 establishment of the diplomatic and bilateral relations, between the USA and the UAE, were flashed across the wide screen throughout the remaining hours of the reception. Three are the high aspirations for space exploration and research; development of future leaders through education; and, 'the UAE's designation as a major defense partner that reflects our shared security.' An illustration of the development of future critical thinking global leaders, relative to the progression of science and technology, specifically in Artificial Intelligence, was the NASA 'Most Inspirational' category win of the 'Innovisionaries' by Rafiq Khan, Ali and their two other University of West London (Ras Al Khaimah) Bachelor of Honours in Computer Science classmates, Shafeeqa Fathima Jahangir and Rikzah Noorul Hudda Khattal. It was Jahangir who read about the competition announcement in October 2024 over LinkedIn. Thereafter, all the four graduating students developed a three-tier 'Build A City' game, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Number 11 (UNSDG 11). They ingeniously utilised and implanted the 'relevant Earth Observational Tool Kit of the NASA that contains all the publicly accessible real and numerical data sets.' UNSDG 11 encourages everyone to work for the actualisation of 'inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities' as global populations continually increase. Thus, the phenomena of harsh living conditions and environmental degradation that impact over-all health and public health. The four hope to entice 'younger minds' to engage in an educational hobby whereby they gain correct information that aid them in the critical thinking concerning urban planning, disaster management, and aquatic culture; 'the fun way' is to help solve all the challenges surrounding global urbanisation.
