Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — The Arab Youth Center, in collaboration with the King Khalid Foundation of Saudi Arabia, announced the three winners of the sixth edition of the Youth Pitches initiative during the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP16) in Riyadh.
The initiative aims to empower Arab youth innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups to tackle key challenges under the theme "United for Land."
The announcement was made in the presence of Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Vice President of the Arab Youth Center, and Princess Nouf bint Mohammed Al Saud, CEO of the King Khalid Foundation, along with strategic partners, decision-makers, and young participants.
Dr. Al Neyadi emphasized the importance of the initiative in spotlighting the potential of Arab youth and enabling them to transform their ideas into tangible contributions to their communities.
He also extended his gratitude to Princess Nouf and her team, as well as to the initiative's partners and judges, for their unwavering support.
Princess Nouf highlighted the value of collaboration in addressing global challenges, stating: "Climate change and desertification know no borders. Our partnership with the Arab Youth Center through the 'Youth Pitches' initiative reflects our commitment to working together for impactful change."
The initiative concluded with the recognition of three standout projects by young Saudi and Arab residents in Saudi Arabia. Raghad Al-Zahrani took first place for her project, the "Salamtak" platform, receiving $50,000 in funding. Mohammed Al-Khalid secured second place with his "Zero Net" platform, earning $20,000, while Iman Reda Al-Youssef came third with her company "MembroLogy," receiving $10,000.
The winners participated in a two-week entrepreneurial training program organized by EYouth Learning, where they acquired key skills in business modeling, market analysis, financial planning, and effective pitching. The platform will continue to support the startups until July 2025, ensuring optimal use of the funding and project success.
The Youth Pitches initiative aims to connect youth with governments to collaboratively address pressing challenges in employment, education, health, environment, and culture.
