Theme: Emirati Identiy

Join us for an inspiring TEDx Youth Talk hosted by the School of Modern Skills on May 10th, 2025! This event is part of the global TEDx initiative and will celebrate Emirati heritage, culture, and the Arabic language while exploring themes of innovation and future predictions. We are excited to welcome speakers from diverse fields who will share their insights on the richness of Emirati culture and heritage. Don't miss out on this engaging and entertaining experience—be a part of our journey!
Our dynamic student-led discussions will explore how youth, education, art, language, and sustainability shape the evolving Emirati narrative:
🔹 The Role of Youth in Shaping Modern Emirati Identity
How are young Emiratis preserving culture while embracing innovation in a globalized world?
🔹 Integrating Emirati Values into Education
Loyalty, respect, and camaraderie—how can these values transform modern classrooms?
🔹 Reimagining Emirati Identity Through Art & Media
From storytelling to social media, discover how creative voices redefine Emirati culture.
🔹 The Role of Arabic in Preserving Heritage
More than just a language—how can reviving Arabic education strengthen national identity?
🔹 Sustainability in the UAE: A Cultural Perspective
From ancient traditions to modern eco-projects, how does sustainability shape the Emirati way of life?
Be part of this thought-provoking TEDx SMS Youth event, where voices of the future honor the past while shaping what’s next. Stay tuned for more details!
#TEDxSMSYouth #EmiratiIdentity #InnovationAndCulture #VoicesOfTheFuture

School of Modern Skills
27th Sheik Mohamed Bn Zayed Street Muhaisnah 1, Dubai
Ground Floor
Dubai, Dubayy, 25314
United Arab Emirates

Eng. Amna Ali Samrah Ali Alshehhi

Section Head at Project Management Office in Ministry of Education | Vice president of Ajman youth council

Amna Ali AlShehhi is a talented Emirati engineer with a Master's in AI from Khalifa University, currently working in Project Management at the UAE Ministry of Education, where she integrates technology with Emirati values to advance the national education system. A former Chair of the Ministry's Youth Council, she spearheaded over 21 national youth empowerment initiatives and also contributes to the Ajman Youth Council, advocating for youth engagement with decision-makers and the importance of national values. A graduate of leadership programs and active in COP28's Green Zone volunteer efforts, Amna today shares her vision on how embedding Emirati values in education can empower future generations.

H.E. Dr. Mariam Matar

Physician

Dr. Maryam Matar is a leading Emirati scientist and genetic researcher, recognized as the most powerful scientist in the UAE and among the top 20 Arab scientists contributing to humanity. She has received numerous accolades, including the Young Achiever Award (World Leadership Congress 2015) and the Super Inspiring, Motivating Women Award (UNESCO 2015). A pioneer in genetic disorder studies, she played a key role in implementing pre-marital screening, preventive genetic testing, and public health legislation in the UAE. She was the first Emirati woman to serve as Undersecretary to the Minister of Health (2006) and expanded Primary Health Care (PHC) services across the Northern Emirates. Dr. Matar holds senior leadership roles in organizations such as Dubai Cares and Reach Mentoring and has received multiple awards for her contributions to healthcare, education, and community well-being.

H.E. Eng. Amal Abdulrahim

Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector | Chief AI Officer | Chief Innovation Officer

H.E. Eng. Amal Abdulrahim is a leading figure at the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) as Assistant Undersecretary, Chief AI Officer, and Chief Innovation Officer. She strategically drives operational efficiency and innovation to support national goals in climate action, environmental sustainability, and biodiversity through AI and digital transformation. She also manages key operational areas like HR and finance, fostering a culture of excellence. Previously, she held significant roles in the Ministry of Education, driving innovation, and in the Prime Minister’s Office, overseeing federal performance management and contributing to the UAE’s long-term roadmap. Her experience extends to managing quality and strategic planning at Dubai Municipality. Her extensive expertise and visionary leadership are crucial in advancing the UAE’s environmental agenda and its global standing in addressing environmental challenges.

H.E. Mr. Atraf Shehab

Chief Executive Officer & Executive Director Government Development and Future - Prime Minister Office

Atraf Shehab, based in United Arab Emirates, is currently a Chief Executive Officer at Prime Minister's Office - UAE. Atraf Shehab brings experience from previous roles at Global Future Councils, Future Department and Government Department. Atraf Shehab holds a Master's Degree in International Development Studies @ Ohio University. With a robust skill set that includes New Concept Creation, Creative Concept Design, Futures Thinking, Concept Design, Service Delivery Concepts and more.

Maisa Ajaj

Global Certified Career Services Provider NCDA FCD| Accredited Counselor Times Higher Education| Career & College Guidance Counselor |Vocational Planning & Pathways Expert | American Curriculum & youth Advocate.

Packed With over ten years of experience in higher and general education, including a strong background in American curriculum, customer care, proposals writing, and college and career guidance, Maisa brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Currently she's pursuing a Master of Applied Psychology. Her customer care orientation and passion for guiding students in their college and career paths makes her an asset to any organization seeking a dedicated professional with a diverse skill set.

Rowdha Alsayegh

Creative Director - Founder of Rowdha SAY. A creative agency that helps brands SAY

She was called noisy as a little girl, she grew up and discovered her a talent. She is blessed with the ability to express. Today she proudly brought Rowdha SAY to life to share her power of expressing with you and help you SAY your beautiful stories. where she does not only build a concept for you, she custom build a team for your unique project. With Rowdha SAY not every client gets the same team. Each proposal gets a ‘bespoke team’ that best fits the client’s needs. Rowdha SAY is your one stop shop to SAY your story with unlimited talents. She managed to SAY for many prestigious brands such as PIAGET - GOOGLE - EMAAR - DUBAI CULTURE - VACHERON CONSTANTIN and many more.

Sally AlAssad

Media Public Figure

"A prominent media personality and consultant with over 20 years of experience, she is the CEO of Al Laith Media Group, one of the largest photo news agencies in the Middle East. She specializes in broadcasting, media training, and public speaking, overseeing major news coverage for global networks. She holds key leadership roles, including Chairwoman of the Gulf Women’s Committee and board member of the Arab Professional Women’s Union. A renowned trainer and content creator, she also founded the ""Know Your Country - Jordan"" initiative. With a background in economics and media training, she continues to inspire and lead the next generation of media professionals."

Shaemma Mebwana

Vice President of the Youth Council at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment

Shaemma Rashed Mebwana is a dedicated Marine Biodiversity Specialist and sustainability advocate at the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, where she leads national initiatives spanning climate resilience, biodiversity, youth engagement, and global negotiations. Recognized with the 1st Class Order of Zayed II for her COP28 contributions, this Zayed University Environmental Science graduate blends research, diplomacy, and community impact. Driven by a deep personal and intergenerational commitment to sustainability, and currently serving as Vice President of the MOCCAE Youth Council, Shaemma passionately empowers a new generation to champion climate resilience through ecosystems and innovative ideas.

Shamma Juma Alrahoomi

Senior Infrastructure Budget Analyst

Shamma Alrahoomi works at the heart of government finance, contributing to policies that shape Dubai’s future. As a Senior Budget Analyst, she plays a key role in directing public resources toward achieving strategic national goals. She leads the Dubai Finance Youth Council and is a member of the Dubai Youth Council, where she works to ensure that the voice of youth is present where decisions are made. Her work sits at the intersection of policy, planning, and public service—where decisions are made, budgets are built, and futures are shaped.