Latest news with #OutwardBoundOman
Observer
05-08-2025
- Business
- Observer
MoU signed for 2nd edition of "Young Shapers" Programme
MUSCAT: Oman International Development and Investment Company SAOG (Ominvest), a leading investment company in the region, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Outward Bound Oman for the second edition of the "Ominvest Young Shapers" programme, as part of the company's long-standing commitment to developing leadership capabilities among Omani youth. Outward Bound Oman, in collaboration with Global Shapers Muscat Hub, will deliver six comprehensive leadership courses benefiting 100 participants until the end of 2025. The programme will target job seekers, students, employees, and entrepreneurs from across Oman. The inaugural edition of the programme in 2024 trained 95 individuals through outdoor leadership experiences. The curriculum is specifically designed to align with key UN Goals (SDGs), focusing on quality education, leadership, digital skills, and climate awareness. Participants will be challenged to develop skills in a hands-on, real-world context across Oman's diverse landscapes, including Salalah, Jabal Akhdar, and the Sharqiyah Sands. This immersive approach goes beyond traditional learning, building character, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the country's natural heritage. 'Our core strategy at Ominvest is to create lasting value for all our stakeholders by fostering sustainable growth, and that starts with investing in people," said Badar Awadh al Shanfari, Chief Operating Officer of Ominvest. "The Young Shapers programme is a powerful example of this strategy in action. By equipping young Omanis with critical leadership skills, we're directly contributing to Oman Vision 2040's goals of economic diversification and job creation. These are the future innovators and entrepreneurs who will drive progress and ensure the long-term prosperity of our nation.' Waleed Nasser al Yarubi, Chief People, Corporate Communication and Sustainability Officer, emphasised the program's connection to Ominvest's broader sustainability commitments. "This partnership with Outward Bound Oman is a cornerstone of our sustainability strategy, which is guided by our commitment to making a positive impact on society and the environment. By focusing the curriculum on UN SDGs like quality education and climate awareness, we are not only developing individual leaders but also empowering them to be agents of change. This initiative is a powerful demonstration of how we integrate social and environmental progress into our business objectives, creating shared value for our company, our communities, and the future of Oman." Suleiman bin Masoud al Harthy, Chairman of Outward Bound Oman, said: "We are delighted to renew our partnership with Ominvest and continue creating opportunities for young Omanis to develop essential life skills while connecting with their natural heritage. This programme goes beyond traditional classroom learning by immersing participants in Oman's stunning landscapes
Zawya
22-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sidrah 4.0 launches to inspire holistic leadership and entrepreneurial spirit among Omani women
Muscat – Sidrah 4.0, the fourth edition of Oman's impactful leadership program for young Omani women, has kicked off. Sidrah continues its mission to guide participants through a journey of inner strength, community connection, and personal transformation. This year's edition focuses on inspiring holistic leadership by combining physical resilience, self-reflection, digital learning, and contributions that serve local communities. Co-designed and co-run by Lahunna Oman and Outward Bound Oman (OBO), Sidrah welcomes a diverse cohort of women aged 20-35 from across the Sultanate. Participants include fresh graduates, working professionals, and entrepreneurs, all selected for their drive to grow and lead. The program supports them in developing leadership skills, and discovering a deeper sense of direction that connects their personal values and ambitions with the Oman Vision 2040. Phase I begins with a five-day immersive journey that blends physical challenge and self-discovery. The first half features an outdoor experiential learning experience that includes camping and hiking with Outward Bound Oman, while the second half includes transformative simulations and team activities led by Lahunna Oman. Phase II combines a gamified microlearning experience via the Salalem Learning Management System, weekly group coaching with the International Coaching Federation Oman Chapter, networking to build meaningful relationships, mentoring sessions for inspiration, and community service. Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Chief Marketing Officer at Sohar International, commented: "At Sohar International, we believe that empowering Omani women with future-ready skills is essential to unlocking the nation's full economic potential. Our strategic sponsorship of the Sidrah Program reflects a long-term commitment to purposeful partnerships that build capability, confidence, and opportunity.' He added, 'By working with Lahunna to equip young women across the Sultanate with leadership, financial and digital literacy, and employability skills, we are investing in changemakers who will contribute directly to Oman's socio-economic progress and the ambitions of Oman Vision 2040. We are proud to help create pathways that move talent from learning to impact into workplaces, entrepreneurship, and community leadership." Maryam Al Shaibani, Vice President of Integrated Digital Solutions at OQ said, 'Sidrah 4.0 reflects OQ's commitment to innovation, resilience and community empowerment. By equipping young women with the tools, skills and mindset to lead with purpose, the programme turns ambition into action and potential into progress. She added, 'At OQ, we see digital transformation not just as a technical shift but as a cultural one, where people are empowered to adapt, grow and drive meaningful change. Sidrah 4.0 brings this to life, offering a platform for young leaders to shape a more sustainable, inclusive future.' Sidrah 4.0 is sponsored by OQ and Sohar International Bank, Oman Shell and Sabco Media which include Virgin Radio Oman, Merge 104.8 and Al Wisal. Each partner shares a common commitment to inspire the next generation of women leaders in Oman. Since its inception in 2022, Sidrah has offered young Omani women a supportive environment to build confidence, overcome limitations, and unleash their leadership potential. By combining hands-on learning with reflective personal growth, the program equips participants with essential skills in problem-solving, change leadership, and community engagement while nurturing a deep sense of social responsibility and civic purpose. Over time, Sidrah has become a trusted space for 169 young women to heighten self-awareness, harness their capabilities, and propel as confident leaders in the near future. About Outward Bound Oman Outward Bound Oman is an educational not for profit foundation established by ministerial decision and is part of the international Outward Bound community that started in Wales in 1941. Using the mountains and deserts of Oman, our courses help develop people from all walks of life. Through the generosity of our partners, we are able to run adventurous and challenging outdoor learning programmes that equip people with valuable skills for education, work and life. Working with young people from both inside and outside of Oman, we help them become more confident, more effective and more capable at school, college and in the workplace. In addition to our work with young people, we also deliver training and professional development programmes for a growing number of leading companies in the region, as well as bespoke leadership and team development courses About Lahunna Oman Lahunna is an independent initiative formed in 2020, with potential universal reach and application. It aims to plant a seed to inspire, first locally, then regionally and internationally, the infinite possibilities of a woman's value in society. The unconventional charm of Lahunna is evident in the method of its presentation and its delivery. In 2022, Lahunna Oman successfully executed multiple initiatives that are women-centric in partnership with Outward Bound Oman, City Center Muscat, Mubashir, Visa and Bank Muscat. The Inspiration behind Sidrah The programme draws its name from the local Sidr tree - a symbol of strength and adaptability located across various environments - with some specimens in Oman dating over 350 years. When the roots of the Sidr come across a barrier, they twist and turn to overcome it, adjusting beautifully and resiliently, just as the programme's participants will find within themselves the flexibility and strength to adapt and grow over the course of this unique experiential journey. Furthermore, the traditional choice for an innovative programme represents the strong link between the participants' glorious past and their promising future.
Zawya
18-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sidrah 4.0 opens applications: Calling Oman's next generation of women leaders
Muscat – Sidrah 4.0, the celebrated youth leadership initiative designed to inspire and equip young Omani women, has officially opened applications. Since its inception in June 2022, Sidrah has supported over 169 graduates from 11 governorates, who have gone on to launch projects, step into management roles, and contribute meaningfully in multiple ways. Co-designed and co-delivered by Lahunna Oman in collaboration with Outward Bound Oman, Sidrah 4.0 seeks Omani women aged 20-33 from across the Sultanate of Oman. This three-month program offers a blend of immersive outdoor experiences, engaging workshops, mentorship, online courses, and professional coaching, closely aligning with Oman's Vision 2040 priorities. "Sidrah offers Omani women the tools, confidence, and inspiration to shape their futures and drive positive change in their communities," said Shatha Al Maskiry, Founder of Lahunna Oman. "We're excited to welcome a new group of ambitious young women ready to embrace this transformative journey.' Mohammed Al-Zadjali, Acting Executive Director of Outward Bound Oman, added: "We look forward to hosting a new group of young Omani women in our Jabal Akhdar training centre where they will embark on an immersive and inspiring educational and training journey through the Sidrah program. We hope that the program will build on its success in its fourth edition and contribute to supporting female leadership in the Sultanate of Oman." Sidrah 4.0 is proudly sponsored by Oman Shell and OQ, Al Wisal, Merge 104.8 and Virgin Radio Oman highlighting a shared commitment to fostering inclusive growth and leadership excellence. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through and follow @sidrahoman on Instagram. -Ends- Outward Bound Oman Outward Bound Oman is an educational not for profit foundation established by ministerial decision and is part of the international Outward Bound community that started in Wales in 1941. Using the mountains and deserts of Oman, our courses help develop people from all walks of life. Through the generosity of our partners, we are able to run adventurous and challenging outdoor learning programmes that equip people with valuable skills for education, work and life. Working with young people from both inside and outside of Oman, we help them become more confident, more effective and more capable at school, college and in the workplace. In addition to our work with young people, we also deliver training and professional development programmes for a growing number of leading companies in the region, as well as bespoke leadership and team development courses Lahunna Oman Lahunna is an independent initiative formed in 2020, with potential universal reach and application. It aims to plant a seed to inspire, first locally, then regionally and internationally, the infinite possibilities of a woman's value in society. The unconventional charm of Lahunna is evident in the method of its presentation and its delivery. In 2022, Lahunna Oman successfully executed multiple initiatives that are women-centric in partnership with Outward Bound Oman, City Center Muscat, Mubashir, Visa and Bank Muscat. The Inspiration behind Sidrah The program draws its name from the local Sidr tree - a symbol of strength and adaptability located across various environments - with some specimens in Oman dating over 350 years. When the roots of the Sidr come across a barrier, they twist and turn to overcome it, adjusting beautifully and resiliently, just as the program's participants will find within themselves the flexibility and strength to adapt and grow over the course of this unique experiential journey. Furthermore, the traditional choice for an innovative program represents the strong link between the participants' glorious past and their promising future.
Mid East Info
04-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Outward Bound Oman and bp Oman launch the 'Wa'ed' programme to empower Omani Startups - Middle East Business News and Information
Sunday 4th May 2025: In partnership with bp Oman, Outward Bound Oman in collaboration with the SME Development Authority announced the launch of 'Wa'ed' programme, to empower Omani startups in the fields of technology and innovation, aiming to contribute to their growth and sustainability. The programme targets 100 Omani entrepreneurs from startups and students companies and offers them with a comprehensive training experience in three phases, with each phase focusing on developing skills that support the growth and sustainability of their companies such as leadership, communication, teamwork skills as well as collaboration, innovation, and environmental stewardship, by combining both indoor and outdoor training activities. Mohamed Al Zadjali, Acting Executive Director at Outward Bound Oman, said: 'Our partnership in the 'Wa'ed' programme reflects the importance of collaboration between government sector, private sector, and civil society, unifying efforts to serve the entrepreneurship sector, which is a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals in the Sultanate of Oman. ' Ibrahim Al Hinai, Social investment manager at bp Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar, commented: 'Empowering local capabilities is a key focus at bp Oman, and supporting Omani start-ups growth plays a crucial role in this. This programme will work with various promising Omani start-ups, allowing them to expand, develop, and grow, which will further enhance Oman's economy and contribute to building a stronger community.' Qais Al Tobi, Vice-President of Finance and Investment at the SME Development Authority and General Supervisor of the Rising Omani Startups Programme, added: 'The 'Wa'ed' programme represents a practical model of integration between government entities, the private sector, and civil society to support the entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem in the Sultanate of Oman. It reflects our commitment, through The Rising Omani Startups Programme, to empowering Omani entrepreneurs and building their leadership and managerial capacities. We firmly believe that enhancing youth skills directly contributes to creating startups capable of competing both locally and globally, in alignment with the aspirations of Oman Vision 2040.'
Zawya
04-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Outward Bound Oman and bp Oman launch the 'Wa'ed' programme to empower Omani startups
In partnership with bp Oman, Outward Bound Oman in collaboration with the SME Development Authority announced the launch of 'Wa'ed' programme, to empower Omani startups in the fields of technology and innovation, aiming to contribute to their growth and sustainability. The programme targets 100 Omani entrepreneurs from startups and students companies and offers them with a comprehensive training experience in three phases, with each phase focusing on developing skills that support the growth and sustainability of their companies such as leadership, communication, teamwork skills as well as collaboration, innovation, and environmental stewardship, by combining both indoor and outdoor training activities. Mohamed Al Zadjali, Acting Executive Director at Outward Bound Oman, said: "Our partnership in the 'Wa'ed' programme reflects the importance of collaboration between government sector, private sector, and civil society, unifying efforts to serve the entrepreneurship sector, which is a key component of the Sustainable Development Goals in the Sultanate of Oman. " Ibrahim Al Hinai, Social investment manager at bp Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar, commented: "Empowering local capabilities is a key focus at bp Oman, and supporting Omani start-ups growth plays a crucial role in this. This programme will work with various promising Omani start-ups, allowing them to expand, develop, and grow, which will further enhance Oman's economy and contribute to building a stronger community." Qais Al Tobi, Vice-President of Finance and Investment at the SME Development Authority and General Supervisor of the Rising Omani Startups Programme, added: 'The 'Wa'ed' programme represents a practical model of integration between government entities, the private sector, and civil society to support the entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem in the Sultanate of Oman. It reflects our commitment, through The Rising Omani Startups Programme, to empowering Omani entrepreneurs and building their leadership and managerial capacities. We firmly believe that enhancing youth skills directly contributes to creating startups capable of competing both locally and globally, in alignment with the aspirations of Oman Vision 2040.' About bp Oman: bp has had an upstream presence in Oman since 2007. Block 61 ownership: bp 40%; Makarim Gas Development Limited (OQ) 30%; PTTEP 20%; PC Oman Ventures Limited (PETRONAS) 10%. Block 61 has the capacity to deliver around 35% of Oman's total gas demand. Our social investment programmes aim to support the development of Omani people, economic diversification, and job creation. Since the launch of the social investment programmes in 2014, we have positively impacted the lives of over 202,000 people through more than 150 initiatives. About Outward Bound Oman: Outward Bound Oman is an educational not for profit foundation established by ministerial decision and is part of the international Outward Bound community that started in Wales in 1941. Outward Bound Oman uses the mountains and deserts of Oman in their courses to help develop people from all walks of life. Through their partners, they are able to run adventurous and challenging outdoor learning programmes that equip people with valuable skills for education, work and life. They work with young people from both inside and outside of Oman, and help them become more confident, effective and capable at school, college and in the workplace. In addition, they also deliver training and professional development programmes for a growing number of leading companies in the region, as well as bespoke leadership and team development courses. Outward Bound Oman was first established in the UK in 1941, and now operates in 33 countries around the world. Oman is the first Arabic speaking nation to set up an Outward-Bound operation to develop and challenge its human resource to ensure Vision 2040 becomes a reality. Since being established in Oman in 2009, Outward Bound Oman has delivered training for more than 16,000 individuals in a variety of courses to different age groups starting from school students through Skills for Life course, enhancing the employability of young people throughout the Sultanate in the Next Generation course, and it also provide bespoke training courses for the emerging talent and leadership teams of many leading companies and institutions in Oman. For more information, please contact: Dhuhla Al Anqoodi Dhuhla@
