Doha: Qatar Foundation will host the second edition of the QIYADA conference on September 25-26 under the theme "Guided by Faith: Thriving in a Changing World", bringing together Muslim youth aged 17 to 24 from across Qatar alongside scholars, thought leaders, and inspirational figures at Multaqa (Education City Student Center) in Education City.
According to Qatar News Agency, the conference is sponsored by Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB) as the official sponsor, and the Ministry of Sports and Youth as the participant sponsor. This year's conference aims to empower youth to tackle global challenges, explore Islamic values, foster leadership skills, and promote multi-cultural understanding through insightful keynote sessions and interactive workshops.
In a statement on Monday, Qatar Foundation announced a prominent lineup of speakers from diverse cultural backgrounds. These include Dr. Omar Suleiman, a globally-renowned scholar and theologically-driven activist for human rights, and Dr. Hanan Ahmed Al Qattan, Founder and Director of Etizan Center for Psychological, Educational, and Sharia Consultation and Training.
Commenting on the Ministry of Sports and Youth's sponsorship of the conference, Ahmed Mohammed Al Harami, Assistant Undersecretary for Youth Affairs, emphasized the importance of providing spaces that enable young people to engage in dialogue, learn, and exchange ideas. He highlighted the conference as an important platform for young people to gain new knowledge, develop leadership skills, and learn from diverse experiences.
He further stated the belief that empowering young people includes strengthening their awareness of their identity and values while creating a supportive environment that helps translate these values into initiatives, practices, and positive societal impact.
Dr. Abdulbasit Ahmed Al Shaibei, Chief Executive Officer of QIIB, expressed that their support for this conference reflects a firm belief in investing in young people as a meaningful contribution to the nation's future. He emphasized the partnership with Qatar Foundation and the group of scholars and thought leaders as a way to inspire young people, strengthen their Islamic identity, and unleash their positive energy for sustainable impact.
The QIYADA conference is intended for Muslim youth interested in issues of faith, identity, leadership, and community engagement, particularly high school and university students throughout Qatar. The conference also welcomes non-Muslim students interested in participating in meaningful dialogues and exchanging perspectives.
Initiated by the Office of Wellness and Spiritual Life within Qatar Foundation's Higher Education, the conference supports Qatar Foundation's mission to promote education, leadership, and innovation, aligning with its commitment to driving global impact and social advancement through collaboration, dialogue, and value-driven education.