The Youth Impact Lab 2024 brought together ten teams from prominent universities across the UAE to build innovative solutions to address ESG challenges.
The Pearl Initiative in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), successfully hosted the Youth Impact Lab 2024, marking its second consecutive year of challenging UAE youth to address critical issues in the field of environmental, social, and governance (ESG).
The Pearl Initiative is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing corporate governance in the region. This event aligns seamlessly with the organisation’s belief that enabling the creative economy’s young leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue around issues related to good governance is critical to the future of sustainability within the GCC.
The Youth Impact Lab 2024 brought together ten teams from prominent universities across the UAE to build innovative solutions to address ESG challenges. The teams were made up of students from Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, Middlesex University, The Higher College of Technology (HCT), Skyline University College, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi School of Management, American University of Sharjah (AUS), and Ajman University.
Forty-five students attended this year’s event marking a 29% increase in attendance compared to last year. This growth signifies the event’s rising popularity and highlights the strong interest among UAE students in addressing pressing global issues. It also underscores the dedication of UAE students to confront complex challenges hands-on, as well as their readiness to become leaders in the field of sustainable development.
The winning team, ‘A Game’ from Khalifa University, developed an innovative solution addressing critical environmental issues. Their presentation showcased their dedication to driving positive change in their communities, and their in-depth research and practical recommendations reflected a solid grasp of the complexities involved in tackling ESG challenges.
‘A Game’ received a one-month internship at the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF). This opportunity will allow them to further develop their skills, gain valuable real-world experience, and contribute to meaningful projects within an organisation that prioritises cultural and social impact. Additionally, all participating teams received tickets to the Abu Dhabi Festival and Certificates of Participation, celebrating their commitment and contributions to the competition.
Reflecting on this year’s competition, Mrs. Vineetha Mathew, Senior Advisor Programmes at the Pearl Initiative, said: “The passion and creativity displayed by the students in addressing ESG challenges is truly inspiring. Their work reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of the issues. By engaging with these topics, they are preparing themselves to be future leaders and consequently contributing to a sustainable future. The Youth Impact Lab embodies the Pearl Initiative’s mission to promote corporate governance amongst students across the Gulf region, ensuring that future innovators are equipped to address the pressing issues facing our world.”
This year’s event also featured an impressive array of companies among the speakers, mentors, and judges, who are dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability, including Crescent Enterprises, Aramex, Dubai Holding, Arada, Transworld, Schneider Electric, Dulsco, Farnek, and Real Impact.
