Qiyada to extend youth engagement with leadership programmes

Qiyada, a youth engagement and leadership initiative by Qatar Foundation, plans to extend its involvement with young people beyond the annual conference, according to Sulaiman T Bah, Wellness and Spiritual Life Lead at QF Higher Education. The two-day conference concluded in Education City, with organizers using participant feedback to shape the current year's program, highlighting the importance of listening to young people and addressing their concerns.

Post-Qiyada activities include additional workshops, a leadership incubator, and mentorship opportunities, all aimed at developing a year-round community of young leaders. Initially targeting individuals aged 17-24, Qiyada aims to foster practical frameworks, encourage peer engagement, and build confidence in participants. The initiative's long-term vision includes expanding beyond Qatar's youth community to encompass the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) and eventually a global audience.

This year's conference theme, Guided by Faith, Thriving in a Changing World, addressed pressing issues such as artificial intelligence, mental wellbeing, economic pressures, geopolitical developments, and religious queries. Bah emphasized the importance of keeping young people engaged through a "by youth" approach, allowing them to showcase their projects and initiatives in future editions.

The post-conference programme will maintain connections among participants, fostering ongoing learning and collaboration.