Doha: The inaugural edition of QIYADA Conference: Qatar Islamic Youth Aspiration and Development Assembly, organized by Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF), kicked off on Friday with the participation of leading scholars, thinkers, influencers, and role models from around.
According to Qatar News Agency, the two-day event is being held at Multaqa (Education City Student Center) and is designed to equip youth with the confidence, knowledge, and tools for leadership and positive social impact, while strengthening their Islamic identity in today's ever-shifting world.
The first day of the conference, organized by Qatar Foundation's (QF) Higher Education division and sponsored by QIIB, welcomed over 1,000 students from schools and universities across Qatar. These students engaged in discussions focused on exploring faith and knowledge-based solutions to contemporary challenges. The opening ceremony featured a welcome address by journalist Amjad Al-Nour and a poetic performance reflecting the aspirations and identity of Muslim youth in today's world.
Hend Zainal, Executive Director, Strategy, Management and Partnerships within QF's Higher Education division, addressed the audience at the opening of the conference. She highlighted Qatar Foundation's ongoing mission to build an educational environment that encourages research, reflection, and dialogue, all while being firmly rooted in Islamic values. Zainal emphasized the importance of empowering youth to explore new horizons and make a positive impact on their communities, with the QIYADA conference serving as a step in this direction.
Islamic scholar Dr. Nayef Bin Nahar also spoke at the conference, emphasizing the need to engage young people based on their intellectual capacity rather than their age. He stressed the importance of adhering to the Qur'anic approach to leadership, which is grounded in values such as morality, responsibility, and a sound personality.
Dr. Omar Suleiman, a scholar and human rights activist, urged the young audience to view life's challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth, reinforcing the idea that great leaders often emerge from crises. He encouraged embracing life's trials through the sacred acts of worship that prepare the soul for real adversity.
The first day of QIYADA also included specialized workshops aimed at developing youth skills, enhancing spiritual and intellectual awareness, and providing opportunities for networking and exploration. Additionally, exhibitions from QF entities were featured throughout the event.