Qatar Foundation (QF) will host its inaugural Qiyada (Qatar Islamic Youth Aspiration and Development Assembly) conference on September 19-20 at Multaqa, bringing together Muslim youth from schools and universities across Qatar to engage, share challenges, and explore faith-driven solutions.
Qiyada, sponsored by Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB) is open to everyone, including students of other faiths, or none, between the ages of 17 to 24, and eager to engage in honest conversations and share fresh perspectives, a statement said.
Organised by QF’s Higher Education division, Qiyada focuses on strengthening Islamic identity and cultivating conscious leadership through two main thematic tracks. The first centres on identity and faith, aiming to build confidence and conviction in the face of modern challenges. Meanwhile, the second track emphasises knowledge and leadership, empowering Muslim youth with prophetic values and insight to positively impact their communities and the wider world.
“Qatar Foundation is launching the Qiyada conference now to provide a timely and essential platform for the youth to explore and strengthen their faith, identity, and leadership potential in an increasingly complex world,” said Dr Abdulnassir S al-Tamimi, executive director, Student Services, QF.
“As the first initiative of its kind at QF, Qiyada brings together globally respected scholars, thought leaders, influencers, and role models to equip the youth with the confidence, knowledge, and tools to lead with purpose and integrity.”
Sulaiman T Bah, Wellness and Spiritual Life lead within QF’s Higher Education division, said: “The significance of Qiyada lies in its direct response to the spiritual, intellectual, and social challenges facing young Muslims today – from navigating faith in society to combating misinformation, identity confusion, and disconnection."
Dr Abdulbasit Ahmad al-Shaibei, QIIB chief executive officer, said: “We take pride in sponsoring numerous activities and events organised by Qatar Foundation, and we are actively engaged in supporting the noble objectives QF strives to achieve. This commitment stems from our sense of social responsibility and our role in serving our country.”
“Accordingly, our sponsorship of the Qiyada conference reflects our deep belief in the importance of empowering youth and equipping them with the knowledge and skills that strengthen their self-confidence and creative abilities. At QIIB, we believe that investing in initiatives that open broader horizons for young people to learn and engage in constructive dialogue has a positive impact on society as a whole and contributes to building a generation that is aware of its values and capable of facing challenges with initiative and responsibility.
Qiyada will feature a variety of scholars and thought leaders, including Dr Nayef bin Nahar al-Shammari, a well-known Qatari academic and thinker; Dr Aboubacar Musa Abdullah, executive director of Ajial Educational Centre; and HE Dr Hissa bint Hamad al-Thani, assistant professor, Educational Sciences at Qatar University.
Over the two days of Qiyada, ladies-only sessions will focus on topics and issues relevant to young women, offering a safe space for open discussion, support, and empowerment. Also among the highlights of the conference is a lineup of influential youth speakers, including acclaimed journalist and storyteller Amjad al-Nour and prominent social media influencer and blogger Fedaa al-Deen Yahya.
In addition to keynote sessions, the conference will offer specialised workshops aimed at enhancing youth skills and deepening spiritual and intellectual awareness.
Highlights include a workshop by renowned executive coach and author Mohammed Faris titled ‘Barakah Culture vs Hustle Culture: How to Win More Today Without Losing Your Soul’, and a session by Dr Hassan al-Rumaihi on ‘How to Become Active as Muslim Youth’.
The conference has been supported by the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs which has provided esteemed scholars and experts who contributed as keynote speakers, panelists including Dr Mutlaq al-Jasser.
