The eighth edition of the Misk Global Forum will begin tomorrow, November 18, in Riyadh, bringing together young leaders, innovators, and change-makers from Saudi Arabia and around the world under the theme “By Youth for Youth.” Hosted at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk City), the two-day event runs through November 19 and is organized by the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), a flagship initiative dedicated to empowering the Kingdom’s youth. The forum will feature more than 150 speakers, 100 panel discussions, and 30 workshops delivered in collaboration with global knowledge partners. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the gathering will serve as a platform to explore future development opportunities for young individuals across sustainability, education, innovation, technology, health, culture, and climate change.
The announcement underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a convenor of global youth dialogue and a laboratory for ideas that shape the next generation. With participants from every continent expected to attend, the forum reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to investing in human capital as a cornerstone of its long-term prosperity. The event also highlights the expanding ecosystem of Misk City, a purpose-built hub for nonprofits, social enterprises, and youth-focused organizations. As the world seeks solutions to interconnected challenges, the Misk Global Forum positions Saudi youth not merely as beneficiaries of change but as architects of it. The 2024 edition arrives at a pivotal moment, as Saudi Arabia accelerates its transformation under Vision 2030 and deepens its engagement with international partners.
Context and Background
What makes the Misk Global Forum a distinctive fixture on the international calendar? Since its inception, the forum has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated youth-focused gatherings, consistently drawing high-level participation from government, business, academia, and civil society. The Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, known as Misk, was established to nurture talent and provide young Saudis with the skills, networks, and platforms they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Misk City, the forum’s venue, is a dedicated nonprofit district in Riyadh designed to foster collaboration among organizations committed to social impact. The eighth edition builds on the momentum of previous forums, which have produced actionable insights and lasting partnerships.
The theme “By Youth for Youth” encapsulates a philosophy that has guided Misk’s work from the outset: that young people should not only be consulted but also empowered to lead. In a country where more than half the population is under the age of 30, this approach is both a strategic necessity and a moral imperative. The forum’s agenda spans sustainability, education, innovation, technology, health, culture, and climate change, reflecting the interconnected nature of the challenges that young people will inherit. By convening diverse voices, the event aims to break down silos and encourage cross-sectoral solutions. Over two days, participants will engage in panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and informal networking, all designed to turn ideas into initiatives.
Previous editions of the Misk Global Forum have welcomed Nobel laureates, global CEOs, entrepreneurs, and cultural figures, creating a rare space where young attendees interact directly with established leaders. This year’s lineup of over 150 speakers promises similarly rich exchanges. The forum’s growth mirrors Saudi Arabia’s broader opening to the world, as the Kingdom hosts an increasing number of international conferences, sporting events, and cultural festivals. For international observers, the Misk Global Forum offers a window into the aspirations of Saudi youth and the country’s evolving social fabric. It also demonstrates how Vision 2030 is translating into tangible programs that connect local talent with global opportunities.
Key Details
The eighth Misk Global Forum will unfold across several purpose-designed spaces within Misk City, each tailored to a different mode of engagement. The Stage will host headline talks and performances, while The Majlis offers a traditional setting for intimate conversations, reflecting Saudi hospitality. Leaders Diwan provides a platform for senior decision-makers to share insights, and Skills Dukkan delivers practical, hands-on training sessions. Youth Bayt serves as a lounge and networking hub, and AlWaha creates a relaxed environment for creative exchange. These innovative spaces are intended to make the forum experience immersive and interactive, moving beyond conventional conference formats.
Across the two days, attendees can choose from 100 panel discussions and 30 workshops, organized in collaboration with global knowledge partners. The sessions will address topics such as sustainable development, the future of education, artificial intelligence, healthcare innovation, cultural preservation, and climate action. By integrating these themes, the forum recognizes that solutions to complex problems rarely fit neatly into a single sector. Participants will also have opportunities to showcase their own projects, connect with mentors, and explore funding avenues. The presence of international speakers ensures that Saudi youth are exposed to best practices from around the world, while global participants gain firsthand insight into the Kingdom’s dynamic transformation.
Key Saudi entities involved in the event include the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), which oversees the forum, and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, which supports the development of Misk City. The forum also benefits from partnerships with multinational corporations, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations that contribute expertise and resources. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the event’s focus will be on exploring future development opportunities for young individuals. This emphasis aligns with the Kingdom’s national priorities, including youth empowerment, economic diversification, and knowledge transfer. The forum’s outcomes, from new collaborations to pilot projects, are expected to feed into ongoing initiatives supported by Misk and its partners.
International and Regional Impact
How does a youth forum in Riyadh resonate beyond the Kingdom’s borders? The Misk Global Forum has become a meeting point for young people from the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, creating a network that transcends geopolitical divides. By bringing together emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds, the event fosters mutual understanding and lays the groundwork for cross-border cooperation. For Saudi Arabia, hosting such a gathering reinforces its role as a bridge-builder and a catalyst for positive change in the region. It also signals that the Kingdom is open to global talent and ideas, a message that resonates with investors, entrepreneurs, and students alike.
In the wider Middle East, where youth unemployment remains a pressing challenge, the forum’s emphasis on skills development and entrepreneurship offers a hopeful counter-narrative. Participants from neighboring countries can learn from Saudi Arabia’s experience in launching large-scale youth programs and integrating them into national strategies. The forum also provides a platform for regional voices to address shared concerns such as water scarcity, energy transition, and digital inclusion. By focusing on practical solutions and collaborative action, the event contributes to stability and prosperity across the region. International organizations and foreign governments have taken note, with many seeking to partner with Misk on similar initiatives.
Economic and Strategic Significance
What economic value can be unlocked when young minds converge? The Misk Global Forum is not merely a talk shop; it is an engine for human capital development, which is central to Saudi Arabia’s economic future. As the Kingdom diversifies away from oil dependence, it needs a skilled, adaptable workforce capable of driving innovation in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, tourism, and creative industries. By exposing young Saudis to global trends and connecting them with mentors and investors, the forum helps accelerate the formation of startups and social enterprises. These ventures, in turn, create jobs and contribute to GDP growth, supporting the goals of Vision 2030.
The forum also strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a knowledge economy. Partnerships with global institutions bring cutting-edge research and best practices to the Kingdom, while Saudi participants share their own insights and experiences. This two-way exchange enhances the country’s attractiveness as a destination for talent and investment. Moreover, the event showcases Misk City as a vibrant hub for the nonprofit sector, demonstrating how dedicated spaces can amplify social impact. For international businesses, the forum offers a chance to engage with a young, digitally savvy audience and to align their corporate social responsibility efforts with Saudi Arabia’s development agenda. The strategic significance extends to soft power, as the Kingdom builds goodwill and influence through youth engagement.
Vision 2030 Alignment
How does the Misk Global Forum advance the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030? The Vision, launched in 2016, aims to transform the Kingdom into a diversified, innovation-driven economy and a vibrant society. Central to this ambition is the empowerment of young people, who represent the majority of the population and the workforce of tomorrow. Misk, as a key enabler, provides programs in entrepreneurship, education, and leadership that directly support Vision 2030’s human capability development goals. The forum exemplifies this alignment by creating a space where youth can acquire new skills, build networks, and contribute ideas that feed into national initiatives.
Furthermore, the event reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global cooperation and sustainable development. By addressing climate change, health, and education, the forum touches on several UN Sustainable Development Goals, reflecting the Kingdom’s broader efforts to be a responsible global citizen. As the eighth edition unfolds, it will undoubtedly inspire new collaborations and reaffirm the promise of Saudi youth. The Misk Global Forum stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s belief that investing in young people is the surest path to a prosperous and peaceful future. With each passing year, the forum grows in scale and impact, mirroring the remarkable journey of Vision 2030 itself.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Misk Global Forum?
A1. The Misk Global Forum is an annual event organized by the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk) that brings together young leaders, innovators, and change-makers from Saudi Arabia and around the world to discuss key global issues and explore opportunities for youth development.
Q2. When and where will the eighth edition take place?
A2. The eighth edition will be held in Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk City) in Riyadh from November 18 to 19, 2024, under the theme “By Youth for Youth.”
Q3. Who is organizing the Misk Global Forum?
A3. The forum is organized by the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), a Saudi nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership programs.
Q4. What is the theme of this year’s forum?
A4. The theme is “By Youth for Youth,” emphasizing the importance of youth-led dialogue and action in shaping a better future.
Q5. How many speakers, panels, and workshops are featured?
A5. The forum features over 150 speakers, 100 panel discussions, and 30 workshops conducted in collaboration with global knowledge partners.
Q6. What topics will be discussed at the forum?
A6. Discussions will cover sustainability, education, innovation, technology, health, culture, and climate change, with a focus on future development opportunities for young individuals.
Q7. What is Misk City?
A7. Misk City, or Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City, is a dedicated district in Riyadh designed to host nonprofits, social enterprises, and youth-focused organizations, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Q8. What are the innovative spaces at the forum?
A8. The forum includes spaces such as The Stage, The Majlis, Leaders Diwan, Skills Dukkan, Youth Bayt, and AlWaha, each offering unique experiences for engagement and interaction.
Q9. Who can attend the Misk Global Forum?
A9. The forum is open to young people from Saudi Arabia and around the world, as well as leaders, innovators, and change-makers interested in youth development.
Q10. How does the forum support Saudi Vision 2030?
A10. By empowering youth, fostering innovation, and promoting cross-sectoral collaboration, the forum directly supports Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification and human capital development.
Q11. What is the role of global knowledge partners?
A11. Global knowledge partners collaborate with Misk to design and deliver workshops and panels, bringing international expertise and best practices to the forum.
Q12. Will there be opportunities for networking?
A12. Yes, the forum offers numerous networking opportunities through its various spaces, including Youth Bayt and AlWaha, where participants can connect with peers and mentors.
Q13. What outcomes are expected from the forum?
A13. The forum aims to generate actionable ideas, foster partnerships, and inspire initiatives that create lasting opportunities for youth in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Q14. How does the forum address climate change?
A14. Climate change is a key topic, with panels and workshops exploring sustainable solutions and the role of youth in environmental stewardship.
Q15. Is the forum accessible to international participants?
A15. Yes, the forum welcomes international participants, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s openness to global dialogue and collaboration.
Q16. What is the significance of the theme “By Youth for Youth”?
A16. The theme highlights the importance of youth leadership and peer-to-peer learning, ensuring that young people are active participants in shaping their future.
Q17. How can one participate in the forum?
A17. Interested individuals can register through the official Misk Global Forum website and follow updates on social media channels.
Q18. What is the history of the Misk Global Forum?
A18. The forum has been held annually since its inception, growing in scale and impact each year, and has become a premier platform for youth engagement in the region.
Q19. How does the forum promote cultural exchange?
A19. By bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds, the forum facilitates cultural exchange and mutual understanding, showcasing Saudi culture alongside global perspectives.
Q20. What makes Misk City an ideal venue?
A20. Misk City provides a purpose-built environment for nonprofits and youth initiatives, with state-of-the-art facilities that encourage collaboration and creativity.
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