Ahmed Mustafa Kamal El Din is a founding partner of GROWAT in Saudi Arabia, Assistant
President of the Professional Development Network – San Jose – California, USA, and
Managing Director for the Middle East and North Africa region.
Key achievements:
• Member and Leader of the National Board for Professional Development in the USA –
International Relations Committee 2020-2023 and Ambassador for the Middle East and
North Africa Region for the Board 2022.
• Representative of CRG Canada for assessment and measurement tools.
• Consultant for the United Nations Organization – UNICEF.
• Winner of the Merit Award for 2022 and the Best Professional.
Development Expert Award in the World from the National Board for
Professional Development in the USA for 2011, and the Best
International Professional Facilitator Award in the World from the
National Board of Certified Consultants in the USA for 2015.
Professional experience:
• Born and raised in Egypt in Giza Governorate, he took the professional path before
graduating from university, which refined his skills and developed his potential, in
addition to his journey of self-discovery, which has not yet ended.
• He has been involved in the field of information technology for more than two
decades, during which he held several positions, including Information Systems
Consultant in the Office of Experts of the Minister of Finance, then his career path
shifted to the field of professional development to manage the operations of the first
professional development project in the Arab world, which is the establishment of a
vocational guidance and counseling center at the Faculty of Engineering, Cairo
University in 2006.
• He also served as a Professional Development Consultant for the United Nations
Children’s Fund (UNICEF) from October 2009 to 2018.
Other notable achievements:
• In June 2010, during the annual conference of the National Board for Professional
Development (NCDA) in the USA “the largest institution in this field in the world”,
where he was celebrated as the first representative of this association in the Arab
world.
• In January 2011, Ahmed Mustafa was selected by the National Board for Professional
Development (NCDA) in the USA to be the first Arab to join the leadership
development program in the field of professional development to enable him to lead
and spread this field in the Arab world. This was followed by Ahmed Mustafa being
accredited in February 2011 as a Senior International Trainer for Professional
Development at the global level, and to be the only one with the right to teach and
develop curricula for this field in the Arabic language.
• In early 2014, Ahmed Mustafa was nominated to join the Advisory Council of the National Board of Certified Consultants in the USA to become the first Arab to obtain this membership.
• In May 2015, he was chosen by the National Council of Certified Consultants) in the field of mental health and psychology (in the USA) to be an ambassador for the first international conference in the field of mental health facilitation in North Carolina,
USA. During this conference, he was granted a certificate of registration as a mental health facilitator to be the first Arab to have the right to implement the mental health facilitator program and train trainers on it in the Arab world.
• Ahmed has carried out many development and educational programs for all segments of society and different age groups, which have had a clear impact on
rebuilding a new way of thinking about planning life paths. One of his most famous programs is the Self-Management Art program, in which he teaches a new system of standards and measurements that help to understand personality patterns in addition to multiple lifestyle patterns so that life paths can be planned in accordance with personality patterns. This in addition to programs for preparing certified professional counselors and facilitators from the USA, where more than 1000 guidance and counseling specialists have been trained since October 2009 until January 2020 in many countries.
• In mid-2011, Ahmed Mustafa was chosen to implement the first pilot project to
integrate professional development into the educational system in the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia; from September 2016 to January 2020, he managed the professional development programs for Allow Company in the Kingdom, which implements some of the professional development and scientific content projects for professional development for many government agencies and other sectors in the Kingdom.
GROWAT was established to lead human development programs, projects and
services in the next stage for Arab societies, whether in the Arab world or Western countries.
Carolyn D. Jones served as the 2023-2024 President of the National Career Development Association (NCDA). She is the President/CEO of CDJ Consulting, LLC. She assists her clients in her private practice with career development strategies. She is also a consultant for agencies, colleges, universities, and corporations on team building, training, leadership and is a national and international presenter on career development. Carolyn holds a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology, and has earned the NCDA Certified Master of Career Services (CMCS) and Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) credentials. She is a Facilitating Career Development (FCD) Instructor Trainer for the CCSP and Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) credentials.
Marty Apodaca is the Career Counseling Manager at the University of New Mexico’s (UNM) Office of Career Services where he assists in the growth and development of the Career Development Facilitators. Marty has worked in the field of career development for over a decade and is the current Past President of the National Career Development Association and Past President of the New Mexico Career Development Association. Marty has publications in the Career Development Quarterly, Career Planning and Adult Development Network, and Career Convergence. Marty has also been published in the Journal of Individual Psychology, Teaching and Supervision in Counseling, and ACA’s VISTAS web magazine.
Marty is a Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Certified Career Counselor, and National Certified Counselor. Originally from Dexter, NM, Marty has called Albuquerque home for over 20 years and is devoted to promoting career development for the UNM community, the State of New Mexico, and through advocacy at the national and international level. A passion of Marty’s is exploring and presenting on the interconnections of career and mental health and the implementation of the Career Construction Interview when working with clients. Outside of work, Marty enjoys spending time with his wife, family, friends, and bulldog.
Mohammed is an experienced trainer and certified international leadership coach who has a passion and high energy for developing people to explore their potential and reach higher goals. Since 2010, he has provided training, coaching and consulting to hundreds of people in the areas of leadership, public relations, customer service, interpersonal skills, career success, mental toughness, knowledge management and operational excellence at all levels of leaders and individuals.
His 26 years of practical experience at Aramco helped him discover his abilities, learn, practice and hone many leadership skills and deal with different types of people at different management levels with success and excellence. Mohammed values quality, customer success and great influence as supreme values that illuminate his services.
He possesses over 23 years of solid professional experience, specializing in strategic management and organizational development. His career spans diverse and vital sectors, including real estate development, food retail, construction, transportation, food and beverage, and engineering.
He has developed more than eight different organizational strategies, driving transformative change and achieving exceptional results. These strategic initiatives have garnered international recognition, including prestigious awards and accolades from global organizations, highlighting our excellence in capacity building, people practices, and organizational culture. The exceptional contributions of my team and the recognition of senior leadership further amplify the tangible impact of our efforts.
He led the Professional Certification Program, spearheading initiatives that significantly enhanced its quality and standing, attracting strategic experts from elite global organizations. In a pioneering move, he spearheaded the launch of the Arabic version of the professional certification, a strategic decision that has significantly strengthened the association’s (IASP) influence in the Middle East region and has received endorsement and approval from numerous ministries in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries.
Certified professional trainer from the Arab Career Development Association ACDA
Coach-career development
Yara is a Senior Product Specialist and organizational wellbeing leader with a strong track record in communication, cross-functional collaboration, and employee engagement. Throughout her career, she has championed the importance of human-centered communication; believing that strong relationships are the foundation of career success and high-performing teams.
Her work in wellbeing and communication has contributed to shaping a healthier, more connected workplace culture. Today, she brings her experience to the Arab Career Development Program, where she will guide participants through a practical session on communication skills, offering tools to help professionals express themselves effectively, manage conversations, and build meaningful connections.
Abdelhamed Tarig Mohamed is a dynamic Electrical Engineer, Certified QHSE Trainer, and Energy Management Professional with over a decade of experience in engineering innovation, safety leadership, and education. Based in Saudi Arabia, he currently serves as a Vocational Training Engineer at Lincoln College International and an OSHAcademy Trainer. Abdelhamed holds a Master’s in Electrical Engineering from KFUPM and is pursuing a Doctorate in Education. A McKinsey Forward Program alumnus and CEM, PMP, RMP, NEBOSH, and IRCA Lead Auditor certificate holder, he is widely recognized for mentoring award-winning student projects and developing impactful, industry-driven training programs that promote growth mindset and sustainable excellence.
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Abdelhamed Tarig Mohamed is an award-winning Electrical Engineer, Certified QHSE Trainer, and Energy Management Professional whose career bridges the worlds of engineering excellence, safety leadership, and educational innovation. Based in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, he brings over a decade of multidisciplinary experience spanning power systems engineering, project management, and occupational safety training.
Currently serving as a Vocational Training Engineer at Lincoln College International and a Certified Trainer with OSHAcademy, Abdelhamed has played a pivotal role in advancing technical education and safety awareness across the Kingdom. His leadership in guiding trainees at the ITQAN Institute has produced multiple national-level award-winning student projects, earning him recognition as one of the most inspiring mentors in the engineering training community.
A lifelong learner, Abdelhamed holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Power and Energy Systems from King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) and is pursuing a Doctorate in Education at UNICAF University. He complements his academic achievements with an impressive portfolio of international credentials, including PMP®, PMI-RMP®, NEBOSH IGC, CEM®, and IRCA Lead Auditor (ISO 9001, 14001, 45001).
As a McKinsey Forward Program alumnus and Diploma holder in Organizational Leadership from the University of California, Riverside, Abdelhamed is committed to empowering individuals through adaptive leadership, growth mindset, energy resilience, and data-driven performance strategies. His professional philosophy centers on design thinking, collaboration, and continuous improvement principles he applies to every classroom, project, and organization he engages with.
At heart, Abdelhamed Tarig Mohamed is not just an engineer — he is a catalyst for growth, a voice for sustainability, and a champion for the transformative power of education and leadership in the Arab world.
She is a management consultant, professional and Organizational Development Expert, CEO and founder of the beta competencies platform for professional assessment and the pulse planning office for management consulting. Her experience spans more than 20 years in the development of organizations, governance, design of professional tests, and the construction of human resources systems in the government and private sectors.
She holds several international professional licenses in guidance and professional development, in addition to knowledge contributions as the author of several books specialized in management and simplification of professional tools.
Farkad Mahli is a Career Development Specialist and the founder of Step Ahead Global, a career development and training firm based in the UAE. With 18 years of diverse experience spanning the private, nonprofit, government, and educational sectors, holds several professional credentials including GCDF, JCTC, CDCS, CEIP, CCSP, FCD-I, and is an NCDA FCD Master Trainer.
Earned a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Nottingham (UK) and currently pursuing a PhD in Management. Fluent in both Arabic and English.
Selected by NCDA to join the first exemplary project in collaboration with King Saud University and HRDF to train 80+ career advisors from Saudi Arabia on the FCD course, enabling them to become internationally certified CCSP professionals and expanding expertise across the GCC region..
Worked as a Career Specialist at Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), the largest university system in the UAE, serving over 3,000 students; participated in task forces for creating the E-Career Library, developing the Eduverse Career Avatar, and designing career curricula with quizzes and assessments.
Led youth empowerment initiatives at Silatech (Qatar) focusing on employability programs and career coaching.
Collaborated with numerous nonprofit organizations, including INJAZ UAE (Junior Achievement Worldwide), UNDP, Al Ghurair Foundation, and SANAD.
Partnered with government agencies such as RTA, DEWA, KHDA, ADEK, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Youth to enhance career services.
Arwa bint Mohammed al Sharif :
* Chief Executive Officer
* Corporate capabilities management consulting company
* Master’s researcher in Awqaf management and Economics-Institute of Islamic economics, King Abdulaziz University
* Bachelor of Business Administration with honors-King Faisal University
* Strategy design and organizational development consultant
* Specialized in capacity building strategies and management of human capital development projects in the non-profit sector
* Practice of facilitation and professional guidance
* Professional development advisor in cooperation with the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (MiSK)
* Interested in building the mental image and professionalism of corporate communication of organizations and individuals
* Expert in building and innovating development initiatives and projects
* Member of the jury of the National Award for voluntary work 2025
* Member of the advisory committee of the Department of cyber security at the Faculty of Computer Science and engineering at Taibah University
* Performance evaluation consultant and Grant evaluation for a number of non-profit sector organizations
* Director of social impact measurement projects at corporate capabilities company and a member of many studies and research projects
* Managed and implemented many strategic projects, conferences and qualitative forums in the field of development, social impact and Human Resources Development
* Developer and business analyst accredited by the Ministry of human resources and social development
Farida Fawzy is a School Counseling Consultant, Family and Career Coach with over 10 years of experience in education, student well-being, and youth development. She works with international schools in Riyadh, supporting counseling systems, life skills, and college & career readiness programs.
Her work focuses on empowering young people through emotional intelligence, positive discipline, and practical tools that strengthen confidence, decision-making, and future readiness. She places strong emphasis on strengthening the connection between parents and youth, raising awareness on both sides to improve communication, mutual understanding, and healthy decision-making. She also works on reshaping limiting mindsets and incorrect beliefs that affect behavior and life choices.
She has delivered workshops and spoken at educational events in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, supporting students, parents, and educators.
Licensed career counselor and counselor, certified GCDF career development facilitator, NCDA CCSP career counseling service provider, certified practitioner in Berkman, Gallup Cliftonstrengs and PDA metrics for personal and talent development, and holds an ILM leadership license،،
He has more than ten years of experience in career counseling, youth empowerment and career path building, and is a certified trainer in the P3 methodology.express, SIPC social innovation ،،
In his work, he focuses on activating strengths, linking values and motives to the professional path, turning the results of metrics into practical applications that contribute to raising self-awareness, and making appropriate professional decisions ،،
“I am a Career Facilitator committed to deep impact. I love working with young minds because I see the incredible potential for change within them. My goal is simple: to transform their perspective, equip them with essential tools, and help them confidently step into their purpose.”
Through my past and current experience in education as a career counselor, I aim to provide professional guidance and support to individuals to help them achieve their career goals, develop their skills, and choose the appropriate career paths based on their interests and abilities .I also always strive to provide a stimulating learning environment and enable individuals to make informed decisions that enhance their future educational and professional success.
1-member of the American National Association for professional development NCDA .
2-gcdf Certified Professional Development Facilitator practitioner with the American National Association for professional development NCDA .
3-FCD trainer certified by the American National Association for professional development NCDA .
4-team member and founder of the future Compass program at the CAOACAB Foundation .
5 – certified instructor of the Center for measuring the progress of Education .
6-TOT certified trainer .
7-Professional Advisor and operations manager of the Human Resources Fund ” Hadaf ” .
Experiences :
1-career advisor Human Resources Development Fund target August 2023 – until now .
2-director of Manar Al-Majd Center for Educational Services February 2022-August 2023 .
3-director of manahel Al-bakiriya schools July 2019-July 2020 .
4-director of Dammam Manarat schools February 2014-February 2018 .
5-Secretariat of the quality and academic accreditation Unit, University of Dammam, June 2012-January 2014 .
Prof. Saad Almasaudi
CEO of the Ada Zawaya Development Center
Dr. Candy Ho is an internationally recognized career development educator, speaker, and scholar whose work bridges higher education, sustainability, and social impact. At Kwantlen Polytechnic University, she holds the Chancellor’s Chair and is faculty in Educational Studies, where she leads research on integrating the UN SDGs into curricula and teaches courses that help students connect learning, work, and purpose.
As President, Career Connections Consulting, Candy equips organizations to build inclusive, future-ready career ecosystems. A dynamic keynote speaker, she energizes audiences around the world. Her insights have been featured in The Globe and Mail, BNN Bloomberg, Canadian Business, and CTV News, amplifying the conversations on meaningful work and lifelong learning.
Candy currently serves on the boards of the Counselling Foundation of Canada, CERIC, People for Education’s The Education Promise, and the BCIT Alumni Association. Across all her roles, she champions career development as a catalyst for equity, hope, and transformative change.
Business Consultant and Career Facilitator.
Worked as a part-time Lecturer in The Business School at King Fahad University.
Certified Career Services Provider and Global Career Development Facilitator
Holds two master’s degrees in Business Administration.
Conducted more than 150 courses and bootcamps in Career Development, entrepreneurship, and straregy.
Worked with several organizations in Saudi Arabia managing natioal wide projects such as:
Human Resources Development Fund, Aramco Entrepreneurship Center, and SME Authority
Dayna C. Jones, Psy.D. is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of Florida. As the owner of Jones Psychological Health Services, she provides psychotherapy to adult populations suffering from severe mental illness, general psychological distress and personality disorders. She has fifteen years of experience as a clinician working in many different settings offering therapy, assessment, consultation, and crisis management services.
Dirk Matthews is President of the National Career Development Association (NCDA) and currently holds an executive role in Development and Alumni Relations at Columbia College Chicago. Over the past 25 years, he has guided students and adult learners, taught film and career-preparation courses. Additionally, he runs a private career development practice and is an award-winning architectural photographer. He earned a master’s in organizational psychology from California Southern University and holds the Certified Master of Career Services (CMCS), Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF), and Facilitating Career Development Instructor (FCDI) credentials. Dirk’s scholarship appears in journals such as Career Developments, and he frequently presents on topics ranging from film analysis and portfolio building to innovative career development strategies. His recent research examines the pandemic’s impact on organizations and the role of creativity in career pathways.
A professional coach and management consultant with more than 30 years of experience in human resources and health management.
Yasmine is a dedicated ICF PCC Coach, Corporate Leadership
development, ICF TEAM Coach and Master Trainer, specializing
in unlocking personal and professional potential. With a foundation
in biochemistry, she has seamlessly transitioned from the scientific
realm to the transformative world of coaching and training.
Her expertise is designed to deliver programs that foster growth and
resilience. Her area of focus and expertise includes corporate and
leadership development trainings on topics such as emotional intelligence
at work, time and stress management, resilience and wellbeing, team building,
conflict resolution, team collaboration, and organizational effectiveness.
I bring over 17 years of progressive professional experience, including 11 years in the oil and gas industry, with a strong foundation in strategic human resources and organizational development.
Holding a degree in Fundamental Sciences from the University of Sciences, I began my career in the hospitality sector, gaining invaluable exposure to excellence and service while working with leading international brands such as One & Only Royal Mirage Hotel in Dubai and Sheraton, as well as other renowned establishments in Tunisia.
This dynamic journey allowed me to explore and contribute to various domains — from legal affairs to human resources and the oil and gas industry — equipping me with a broad understanding of organizational complexities and a versatile problem-solving mindset.
Driven by a passion for continuous learning and leadership development, I have earned multiple certifications, including Labor Law, Human Resources Management, an Essential MBA from HEC Montréal, Change Management (PROSCI NEXUM), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). These diverse qualifications, combined with my multidisciplinary background, have enabled me to design and implement innovative solutions while managing complex, cross-functional projects.
In my current role as Human Resources & Public Relations Manager at Mazarine Energy Tunisia BV, I leverage my expertise to lead strategic HR initiatives, develop talent, and oversee the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. My approach combines strategic vision with a strong human focus, ensuring sustainable growth, organizational resilience, and meaningful community engagement.
Mohammed Al-Harbi has more than ٢٠ experience in education and holds NCDA professional development facilitator accreditation. And professional development accreditation from ACDA
Mohamed focuses his career counseling work on helping job seekers and employees in planning and building a career path.
It also motivates young people to discover themselves and inspires them to experiment and seize opportunities.
Amany Mamdouh is a dedicated Talent Development Expert and ICF Certified Positive Psychology Coach with 15+ years of diversified experience in training, coaching, sales, and marketing. Based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, she is passionate about fostering employee wellbeing through targeted training and coaching initiatives.
With over 20 years of hands-on experience in Human Resources Management, I have developed strong expertise across various sectors, including Banking, Real Estate, Oil and Gas, and Port Terminals. This diverse background has given me a deep understanding of HR practices and strategies.
I am passionate about employee engagement and development, always thinking strategically to create a positive and productive work environment. Additionally, my experience as a trainer and career coach has allowed me to mentor and guide individuals effectively, helping them improve their skills and advance their careers.
Joanne Nabil Chlela is a senior education and early childhood development specialist with over 15 years of experience working across humanitarian, development, and academic settings in Lebanon and the MENA region. She currently serves as Senior Technical Manager for Education and Early Childhood Development at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), where she leads evidence-based program scaling, partnership development, and capacity-building initiatives focused on inclusive, high-quality education in crisis and fragile contexts.
Sumaya Abdullah dukhakhni
Director of the Career Guidance Department, a competency development consultant and an internationally accredited career counselor, with more than 15 a year of experience
Specializes in empowering individuals and organizations through the design and implementation of career counseling programs and achieving sustainable impact.
Emad Helmy
* International expert in career guidance and counseling
* Emad Helmy is a distinguished international expert with more than 30 years of experience in education and Employment Promotion. As a visionary in the development of human capital, he specializes in bridging the gap between education and the developing world of work..
* Emad has had a significant impact in the field of career guidance in the Middle East, North Africa and Europe. It is worth mentioning that he managed the implementation of a large-scale project in Egypt on education-based career guidance, and developed curricula that are now used in all technical schools in Egypt. His experience extends to the training of school teachers, university professors, employees of career development centers and public employment offices in 7 countries to date.
* Emad holds a master’s degree in international education management, is a master trainer for NCDA FCD training and certification, holds “disciplined entrepreneur” accreditation from Missouri State University, and is a co-founder of The Qualify continuing education platform. Emad devotes his professional career to creating sustainable transition systems that enable young people to move to the labor market in light of current and future challenges..
Fatima Abdullah Ali-Aspetar learning and Development Specialist-more than 14 one year experience in human resources management
Master of mathematics curricula and methods of teaching Mathematics-Bachelor of mathematics Higher Diploma in special education, certified sign language translator, teacher and trainer in the field of hearing disabilities, experience in teaching the deaf since 1997 until now and innovative the first reference dictionary of mathematics terms at the level of the Arab world and the founder and owner of the sad educational platform for the deaf developed hearing has won several awards at the level of the Kingdom and abroad .
I graduated from the Faculty of Pharmacy and spent the first nine years of my career in the pharmaceutical and medical devices industry. Later, I transitioned into Human Resources and Organization Development, where I discovered and established my life’s mission.
I bring a solid track record in Talent Management, Organization Development, and Human Resources across various industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, logistics, and warehousing.
As a Talent Development professional, my mission is to learn, empower, and develop people through training. As a Coach, I am committed to inspiring positive change and encouraging individuals to believe in their capabilities. As a Career Service Provider, I support my clients in identifying their personal goals, developing their skills, and planning successful career moves.
In my role as an L&D Manager, I lead organizational efforts to build a strong learning culture and enable career growth for employees across multiple business units. My work focuses on establishing clear development pathways, building competency frameworks, designing academies and leadership programs, and supporting employees in navigating their career progression. I collaborate closely with leaders and HR partners to ensure that learning solutions are aligned with business strategy and that every employee has access to meaningful development opportunities. Career development is at the heart of my work; helping individuals understand their strengths, define their aspirations, and progress confidently within the organization.
I hold several internationally recognized certifications:
SHRM-CP: Certified Professional from the Society for Human Resource Management
GCDF-CCE: Global Career Development Facilitator from the Center for Credentialing & Education
CPTD-ATD: Certified Professional in Talent Development from the Association for Talent Development
Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, supporting individuals and teams in discovering and leveraging their unique strengths
Azizah Alharthi | Azizah Alharthi
A talent development and acquisition expert specializing in human capital management, she possesses over ten years of experience in attracting and developing talent and designing initiatives that link individual empowerment with the sustainability of organizational performance.
As a certified career consultant, mentor, and professional development trainer, she supports individuals and organizations in achieving growth through strategic career guidance, training, and talent empowerment. She also contributes as an evaluator to organizational excellence models, with a particular focus on fostering a culture of development and organizational transformation in line with global best practices and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Mona Khaled is a NCDA FCD Instructor and Career Development Advisor with over 15 years of experience igniting potential in individuals and organizations. Her diverse background spans prominent organizations across Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, where she designed and facilitated engaging learning programs and personalized career plans. Mona is passionate about helping individuals discover their strengths, chart their ideal career paths, and achieve fulfilling professional goals.
Mona has conducted one-on-one coaching sessions, workshops, and developed personalized career development plans.
She has also created character-building programs for young ages and teens, fostering self-discovery and personal growth.
She also designed and developed engaging learning experiences for leading corporations like SANS, Savola, Hikma and ADNOC. In addition to this, she Contributed to organizational development through internal assessments, process analysis, and policy development.
Contributed valuable resources to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development of KSA.
– Facilitated Hayyakum Winter Camp 2019 for youth in Sharjah, which successfully ended with 50 graduates. The camp was organized and executed in cooperation with Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA).
– Holds various International Accreditations in Career Development, Personality Profiling, coaching and other therapeutic interventions .
Rich Feller, PhD, LPC, JCTC, professor emeritus of counseling and career development and one of 12 university distinguished teaching scholars at Colorado State University, served as President of the National Career Development Association. A former school, vocational, admissions counselor and coordinator of graduate programs in Counseling and Career Development, and the Student Affairs in Higher Education program, he taught within the Organizational Performance and Change graduate program. Consultant to NASA, UN, NFL, AARP, Modern Elder Academy, and organizations within all 50 states and on six continents, his publications include three books, six film series, and over 125 articles and book chapters. Cofounder of Onelifetools, provider of the Who You Are Matters! board game and virtual experience, and OnlineStoryteller he serves as advisor to YouScience an aptitude assessment (9M users), Exec. Dir. of CareerDevelopmentNetwork.org (trained 4K+ certified coaches), co-author of the Career Decision Making System (20M users), Osher Lifelong Institute faculty and retreat leader, and Modern Elder Academy faculty. His international consultations have included projects in Sudan, Egypt, Thailand, China, Korea, Japan, Australia, Singapore, India, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Canada, and Europe.
Mark Franklin (M.Ed,P.Eng) leads the team at CareerCycles, a career management practice that has helped 5000+ people manage their careers for the future. He co-founded narrative tools leader, OneLifeTools, through which he co-authored the Who You Are Matters! game and Online Storyteller platform. Mark teaches career management at University of Toronto and received the Stu Conger Award for Leadership in Career Development. Mark consulted with hundreds of organizations in his earlier engineering career. Changing careers, he earned a Masters in counseling psychology and led student services initiatives in two of Canada’s largest universities. Always seeking ways to unlock the power of storytelling, Mark hosts the Career Buzz podcast and radio show showcasing inspiring career stories. His career insights have appeared in national and international media.
Dr Hoda Kilani CCDP ®, CPCC is a certified Career and Academic coach. She has coached and mentored over a thousand clients with career direction to effectively select next steps that match their career aspirations. She guides parents, teachers and community partners to confidently activate what’s next. She travels the globe as a conference and event keynote speaker focusing on increasing Career Literacy. She also works tirelessly to create global awareness of its value through individual coaching, community partnerships, conference presentations, academic articles and blogs as well as hosting career conversations on YouTube, podcasts, and radio shows in English and Arabic.
Lamiae Arafan is a seasoned banking professional with over 14 years of experience managing complex projects, business development, and leadership initiatives in high-stakes environments. She is the Founder and CEO of LA Coaching & Consulting Inc., a private practice based in Toronto, supporting professionals and emerging leaders in building meaningful, purpose-driven careers.
Lamiae specializes in career transitions, leadership development, workplace integration, and entrepreneurial pathways. She has completed the Career Development Practitioner Certificate at George Brown College. Combining strategic guidance with a human-centered approach that integrates mindset, professional clarity, leadership development, and personal branding, she empowers clients and youth to achieve their career goals.
A recognized speaker and mentor, Lamiae has delivered workshops on inclusive leadership, career visibility, and professional growth. She also volunteers with organizations supporting newcomer talent in Canada, guiding skilled immigrants in navigating the job market. Her unique blend of corporate experience and coaching knowledge positions her to design practical, impactful programs for universities, government initiatives, and youth empowerment projects.
Dr. Eman M. Shorog is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Pharmacy and a Consultant Clinical Pharmacist in Ambulatory Care. She is a dedicated professional with a strong passion for advancing clinical pharmacy practice through pharmacist-led clinics and patient-centered care. Alongside her clinical and academic roles, Dr. Shorog is deeply committed to career development and professional empowerment. She works to equip students and healthcare professionals with the tools needed to identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and build purposeful careers.
Her initiatives include leading career development workshops, providing individual mentoring, and integrating career-readiness training into pharmacy education. She also promotes leadership, communication, and lifelong learning as essential skills for professional growth.
Through her holistic approach that bridges education, practice, and personal development, Dr. Shorog continues to inspire the next generation of pharmacists to achieve excellence in both their clinical and career journeys.
Dr. Hanaa Almoaibed is a sociocultural consultant, published academic and policy researcher with extensive experience in skills development, youth transitions, and women across the Gulf and MENA regions. Founder of Prolegomena Education Advisory and Wonder Inc., she is an advisor to global think tanks and consultancies, and speaker at international forums; her expertise focuses on building cross-sector partnerships and translating research into impact.
Hanaa is a Visiting Research Fellow at the London School of Economics and a Research Fellow at the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies. She is a Consulting Fellow at Chatham House in London and a Non-resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council. She is the co-host of The TWENTY30 Podcast and partner at TWENTY30 Media.
She holds the position of Vice President of Research at the Arab Institute for Women’s Empowerment and is the Education Pillar Chair and Research Advisor at Johara Global. She has board-level experience in the energy sector and the education sector: She is a Non-Executive Director of Rawabi Holding in AlKhobar and United Safety Ltd. in Canada and sits on the Advisory Board of Dhahran Ahliyya Schools, is the Vice Chairman of the International Advisory Board of the ZADK Culinary Academy and a Council Member of the British Society for Middle Eastern Studies where she chairs the Prize Committee. She holds a PhD from UCL and an MSc From the London School of Economics and Political Science and has completed IMD board certifications including High Performance Boards and Driving Sustainability from the Board Room. Hanaa is a mother of two boys and lives between London and Saudi Arabia.
Fouad R. Abdallah is a performance-driven professional with more than 17 years of combined experience in Human Resources, Career Advising, and Project Management. In his capacity as Human Resources Director, he has a proven record of transforming
strategies into HR initiatives and projects and he managed the implementation of a full series of HR operations, HCM systems, and
programs. As Founder and Director of the Antonine University Center for Career Development (C.C.D), Fouad designed and implemented the Center’s infrastructure, strategies, and career information systems and platforms. He participated as a guest speaker and moderator in several national and international conferences and summits and shared his experiences and best practices regarding the impact of technology on HR functions and productivity.
Enthusiastic Human Resources and Administration veteran with more than 15 years ,39 experience in FMCG
looking forward to resuming her career with a more challenging opportunity within the field.
An expert in graphic design and Brand Design Strategies, a university professor in the field of design, with more than 20 years of experience. During which she led creative consultations and corporate identities for a number of government and private entities, and contributed to the development of visual identity concepts to enhance the presence of institutions and reflect their strategic visions.
Aseel Al-Fawzan is a certified consultant in counseling and career development, who holds several international certificates, including GCDF and Berkman methodology.
She participated in the design of the “NAMI” tool to guide students academically, provided specialized programs and workshops for youth empowerment, staff development and linking education with real-life paths. Aseel works to help individuals discover their abilities and make conscious career decisions .
• I am a certified professional coach and coach from both the National Professional Development Association NCDA and the International Coaching Federation ICF, and a certified team coach from the ICF. I work in the field of Professional Competence Development and leadership capacity building for individuals and teams within organizations.
• During my career, I have trained more than 50 NCDA certified professional facilitators, and completed more than 1000 individual and group coaching hours with clients from various fields.
* My professional experience spans more than twenty-five years in the fields of sales and training within major global pharmaceutical companies, where I contributed to the development of performance and stimulate the professional growth of teams and individuals alike.
I believe that sustainable professional development is based on awareness, empowerment, and continuous learning, and through my work I strive to make a tangible positive impact in work environments and professional communities.
I believe that development starts from a person’s awareness of himself, his abilities and capabilities, and transparency and clarity are one of my most important professional values. I use my long experience in professional training and consulting to enable individuals and organizations to achieve their goals and reach professional and personal satisfaction .
Dr. Abdullah Alasmari is the Vice-Rector for Educational Affairs at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU). He holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Psychology from the University of Essex (UK), and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from IMSIU. His academic interests center on cognitive psychology and education.
Dr. Alasmari has held several leadership roles, including Vice-Rector for Quality and Development, Dean of Quality, and Vice-Dean for Accreditation. He also served as an advisor to the Rector of IMSIU and as a consultant to the Ministry of Education. Internationally, he led the Saudi Students Club in the UK and has contributed to various executive committees.
Dr. Alasmari has delivered numerous training programs and consultations for public and private sectors, contributing significantly to educational quality, governance, and development in Saudi Arabia.
Dan Heffernan is the Community Programs Director at AtkinsRéalis, a world-leading design, engineering, and
project management organization. In this role, Dan leads the development and delivery of community programs, focused on skills, education, and employability across the Middle East and Asia. Ensuring that major infrastructure and development projects create lasting socio-economic value for local communities.
Dan works closely with governments, clients, education providers, and delivery partners to embed inclusive skills pathways from project inception through to delivery. His work focuses on translating investment and growth into measurable outcomes, including workforce readiness, youth employment, and access to education aligned to future
labor market needs.
Prior to joining AtkinsRéalis, Dan was the Strategic Lead for Education and Skills for Local Government Departments in the United Kingdom, where he shaped regional skills strategies and employer-led education programs. He has also held senior leadership roles within national and regional charities, delivering large-scale programs supporting young people and under-represented communities.
Dan is a trained Social Value Practitioner and Career Guidance Practitioner and has held a number of senior advisory and governance roles across employment, skills, and education systems. These include serving as Employer
Chair for the West Midlands Combined Authority in the United Kingdom, Vice Chair of the Connected Futures Partnership Board, and membership of multiple strategic employment and advisory boards.
Growing up in a deprived neighbourhood in England, Dan is deeply committed to social mobility, inclusive
recruitment, and levelling the playing field for young people. He is a strong advocate for employer-led skills
systems that are inclusive, locally relevant, and globally scalable
Ajaz Hussain, CSCP, CCC, RCDP, MA, PGD (Distinction), PGCE, BSc(Hons) is an internationally certified careers consultant, supervisor, and trained career mentor. He has designed, developed, and delivered world-class career services at globally ranked Universities (UK) and global energy, and IT sectors (Aramco & IBM).
As a professional mentor, Ajaz has supported human capability initiatives beyond the workplace across three countries, including KSA (Refaq.ai, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals); UK (University College London and The Career Development Institute); and recently USA (Career Counselors Consortium).
Ajaz has been acknowledged by international career experts in research articles and publications, including: The Saudi Experiment with Careers Guidance; Coaching in Islamic Culture: The Principles and Practice of Ershad Coaching; How to Get a Job You Love; Knockout Interview; Standout CV; and The Graduate’s Guide to Future-Proofing Your Career.
Ajaz was awarded the prestigious UCL Alumni Volunteer of the Year during COVID-19 and the NCDA Exemplary Career Center – Education, Government, and Business for Aramco’s journey to establishing the Career Practitioner Center of Excellence – first in the Middle East.
Summary :
Building a successful startup is a structured yet dynamic journey that begins with a compelling idea and evolves through validation, planning, execution, and strategic growth.
Each stage requires disciplined decision-making, market insight, and operational agility. The ability to translate innovative concepts into scalable business models is what separates ventures that thrive from those that falter. Understanding these stages allows entrepreneurs to manage risk, optimize resources, and accelerate their path to sustainable success.
Objective :
The objective of this overview is to provide a clear roadmap for transforming an entrepreneurial idea into a scalable, high-impact business.
By examining each stage from ideation and market validation to execution, growth, and expansion this framework equips founders with actionable strategies to build resilient startups, make data-driven decisions, and position their ventures competitively in dynamic markets.
Abstract :
Entrepreneurship is not merely about having a good idea—it is a disciplined, stepwise process that converts innovation into measurable business outcomes. The journey begins with identifying a market need and generating ideas, followed by validating assumptions through market research and prototyping. Once the business model is refined, the focus shifts to execution, operational excellence, and customer acquisition. With initial traction established, startups can pursue growth by optimizing processes, scaling operations, and expanding into new markets or product lines. Drawing from years of consulting and hands-on startup experience, this framework highlights the strategic imperatives, common pitfalls, and critical success factors at each stage, emphasizing that flexibility, innovation, and relentless focus on value creation are the keys to long-term success.
It helps players answer important questions about their career and life. “What’s next for me? What’s most important to me now? What possibilities would I enjoy?”
Using the power of storytelling and story listening Who You Are Matters! sparks meaningful and structured conversations that build a deeper understanding among players.
Who You Are Matters! is highly flexible for different applications with the full game taking between 60-120 minutes. It can be played with 3-5 friends and family at a single table, or with large groups at multi-table facilitated gameplays, off-sites, team building events, courses or learning programs.
Perfect for personal skill-building and professional development within education and organizations to enhance :
Emotional intelligence
Storytelling and story-listening
Career management
Team effectiveness
Goals and Objectives :
1. To present suggestions of strategies and techniques in the counseling process that offers solutions to promote well-being and success for clients and students engaged in the career development process.
2. To outline the essential importance of the ethical responsibility of helping professionals to collaborate to encourage and create opportunities for those we serve that result in better career choices, healthier work environments and thereby promote well-being and success.
Abstract :
Learning the skills needed to overcome challenges in life is crucial on a career journey. There are different levels of mental health issues uniquely experienced by individuals. Working collaboratively encourages clients to make better career choices and have healthier work experiences. Offering collaborative support provides hope and a sense of control and empowerment for those that we serve.
Summary :
One of the major issues that negatively impact every stage of career development is the stigma of mental illness (Granello, Darcy Haag., Granello, Paul F. (2000). Having to express that one has a mental illness can be anxiety provoking due to the possibility that the responder has discriminatory opinions about mental illness. Ethics and professional standards prevail that education and encouragement of the acceptance of mental illness in a general sense can alleviate the stigma that hurts so many people.
Career counselors can create an organized and supportive environment for this population to identify strengths and weaknesses that not only can be applied for job related skills but also utilized in creating stability in practical areas of life. Mental health counselors can see the impact that a well-organized, consistent and skill building career search can have on reducing the anxiety, hopelessness and pessimism that is generated by career related issues. It is also helpful when working with a client to identify where their actions have contributed to their work experiences to then examine the thoughts and feelings that impact their behavior. Collaboration is useful in creating consistent, supportive environments that validate their experiences and work with them in managing their symptoms. Offering pro-active goals providing hope and a sense of control and empowerment for those that we provide service.
Goals and Objectives :
Demonstrate how storytelling fosters identity, voice, and purpose in culturally diverse learning and work transitions.
Introduce the OneLifeTools narrative assessment framework and its gamified tools for structured career reflection.
Share case study outcomes (e.g., University of Toronto) showing increased psychological capital and career clarity.
Equip participants with practical strategies to implement inclusive, high-impact reflection tools in multicultural educational and workplace settings.
Abstract :
Narrative career reflection tools create deeper, more useful outcomes than traditional tools. Explore high impact, replicable case studies where gamified Who You Are Matters! conversation experience plus narrative assessment builds community, clarifies career direction & supports lifelong transitions. Learn how structured storytelling strengthens identity, voice, purpose for learners navigating school-to-work & workplace transitions.
Summary :
Evaluate the narrative‑based career development framework driving gamified Who You Are Matters! In-person, and virtual experiences, and self-directed narrative assessment. These storytelling tools, and gamification techniques of the OneLifeTools system offer quality reflection and career clarification in education and industry. Participants will explore how structured narrative reflection and assessment strengthen identity, voice, and purpose for diverse learners navigating school‑to‑work and workplace transitions.
In case studies including from University of Toronto’s OPTIONS program, the gamified conversation experience fostered community among culturally diverse participants and helped them clarify direction through story‑listening and meaning‑making. Drawing on published outcome studies, the system demonstrated statistically significant increases in psychological capital (hope, efficacy, resilience, optimism) and in variables such as curiosity and personal‑growth initiative. The evidence links narrative methods with improved job‑person fit, clarity, and satisfaction—critical in multicultural settings.
The session will cover: (a) practice-to-theory foundations of narrative assessment; (b) the ‘Who You Are Matters!’ tools and its cultural‑inclusive design; and (c) practical implementation steps for practitioners working with multi‑cultural audiences. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to integrate narrative reflection, gamification, and story‑listening into career development initiatives, thereby fostering belonging, enhancing voice, and advancing meaningful career choices across cultural contexts.
Goals and Objectives :
This session explores how career practitioners can engage in meaningful career conversations across the life span—from childhood curiosity to retirement reflection. Participants will learn how to adapt narrative, developmental, and experiential interventions to meet diverse age-specific needs. The session integrates the Career Construction Interview, Planned Happenstance, the Challenge Mindset, and Narrative Therapy to enhance resilience, adaptability, and purpose. By the end, attendees will gain practical tools and conversational frameworks that deepen client engagement, help identify themes of meaning, and promote lifelong career development rooted in personal agency and story across cultural and generational contexts.
Abstract :
Career conversations look different at every life stage. This interactive session demonstrates how to apply narrative and developmental approaches across the lifespan—using the Career Construction Interview, Planned Happenstance, the Challenge Mindset, and Narrative Therapy—to foster resilience, adaptability, and meaning in clients from childhood through retirement.
Summary :
Career development unfolds as a lifelong process of constructing meaning, adapting to change, and finding purpose through work and life roles. This session explores how career conversations evolve across five life stages: childhood, adolescence, young adulthood, adulthood, and retirement. Each stage brings unique questions, challenges, and opportunities for meaning-making.
Drawing from Savickas’ Career Construction Interview, participants will learn how story and identity shape career adaptability. Planned Happenstance Theory (Mitchell, Levin, & Krumboltz) introduces strategies to help clients recognize and act on unplanned opportunities, fostering curiosity and persistence. The Challenge Mindset (Michel) reframes obstacles as catalysts for growth, encouraging clients to view adversity as integral to purpose. Narrative Therapy (White & Epston) techniques emphasize externalizing problems and re-authoring stories, helping clients reinterpret career experiences through empowerment and resilience.
Participants will explore sample activities and dialogue prompts tailored to each age group—such as imaginative storytelling with children, values clarification with adolescents, challenge-mapping with young adults, meaning-centered reflection with mid-career adults, and legacy-building conversations with retirees.
By integrating these narrative and developmental approaches, practitioners will leave equipped to facilitate career conversations that transcend age, culture, and circumstance—helping individuals connect personal meaning to professional direction across the life span.
Goals and Objectives :
– Describe limitations of linear career development models
– Explain the concept of relevant career development theories
– Reframe career disruption as a developmental and symbolic threshold
– Strengthen ability to support meaning-making and transformation in career work
Abstract :
This keynote presents a modern career development framework uniting creativity, complexity, opportunity, personal narrative, spirituality, and human potential. Participants gain practical methods to guide people through transitions and cultivate meaningful, future-ready careers in a rapidly changing world.
Summary :
Global instability creates opportunities and challenges in the workforce that extend beyond traditional linear career development models. These older theories do not adequately capture the real experiences of individuals navigating modern work. Viewing careers as dynamic and multidimensional allows career service providers to support people in building meaningful, future-ready lives in a rapidly transforming world.
This keynote proposes a creativity-centered framework that incorporates complexity, opportunity, personal narrative, spirituality, and human potential into a single, holistic approach to career understanding. It draws from contemporary theories of happenstance, chaos, flow, career construction, and transformational practice. The model reframes careers as evolving journeys shaped by internal meaning as well as external forces.
Participants will explore how creativity supports adaptability, how complexity and chance open unexpected doors, and how personal narratives help individuals create coherence in times of change. The framework also recognizes the importance of values, intuition, and spirituality. These dimensions are often overlooked in traditional models but are essential for guiding purpose-driven careers across cultures.
The keynote provides practical methods that attendees can use immediately. These include identifying emerging patterns, guiding individuals through transitions, supporting meaning-making, and cultivating readiness for opportunity. This approach is especially relevant for educators, counselors, organizational leaders, and professionals serving diverse global populations.
Goals and Objectives :
1. Key thoughts about the future of work
2. Understanding Career Literacy and why it matters
3. Core components of Career Literacy
4. Career Literacy in-action
5. Building Career Literacy
6. Interactive segment
Abstract :
As technology advances and becomes deeply integrated into daily life, our task is no longer to compete with machines but to collaborate with them. Career professionals must prepare clients for lifelong growth and fulfillment. Embedding diverse and innovative career education within career services cultivates creative resilience in an ever-evolving world.
Summary :
As technology becomes more advanced and embedded in our daily lives, your challenge is no longer to keep up with machines. Instead, you need to work alongside them. The shift demands new skills, creative mindsets, and a deeper understanding of how you contribute innovatively and uniquely. As Career Literate individuals, you can and your clients can handle this shift.
The presentation will address the value of career education in ensuring every person develops the resilience and creativity to envision possibilities, embrace challenges, and build meaningful pathways. It relates to the theme of integrating dynamic solutions such as innovative career resources and experiential learning in every organization. It is a guide for attendees who want to innovatively lead the way knowing that their path forward is firmly rooted in evidence. The goal is to empower attendees to implement effective and lasting career readiness programs which will not only enable clients to successfully transition from role to role but to continue to manage their career throughout their lifetime. The practical ideas will challenge attendees to reconsider their concept of success and raise the bar when it comes to career services outcomes. It is an invitation to foster, and benefit from, a proactive approach to career teaching by bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Every career professional should prepare their clients not only for future employment but also for lifelong growth and fulfillment. Embedding diverse and innovative career education within career services is central to fostering creative resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Goals and Objectives :
This presentation aims to equip career professionals with a structured framework for intentionally developing psychological resilience through mental toughness concepts. The primary goals are:
1. Introduce and contextualize the B3-5Cs Mental Toughness Training Model by Tham and Wiegand for career advancement.
2. Deconstruct the 5 Cs—Composure, Concentration, Confidence, Cope-ability, and Cohesion—as critical attributes for sustained high performance under pressure.
3. Demonstrate the utility of the 3 Bs (Goal Setting, Imagery, and Self-talk) as practical, evidence-based tools for enhancing career resilience, managing stress, and accelerating professional development.
4. Provide attendees with an immediate, actionable roadmap for integrating mental toughness training into their daily professional habits.
Abstract :
Unlock your career potential! Learn the B3-5Cs Mental Toughness Training Model—an evidence-based system for building resilience, focus, and confidence. This session provides practical skills in Goal Setting, Imagery, and Self-talk to help you thrive under pressure, overcome setbacks, and sustain high performance throughout your professional journey.
Summary :
The demands of modern career paths—characterized by rapid change, intense competition, and high-stakes decision-making—require more than just technical skill; they demand robust psychological resilience, or Mental Toughness. This session presents the Tham and Wiegand B3-5Cs Model as a foundational framework for achieving this.
The 5 Cs represent the key psychological outcomes of mental toughness: Composure (maintaining emotional control), Concentration (sustaining focus), Confidence (belief in one’s abilities), Cope-ability (managing setbacks and adversity), and Cohesion (optimizing team dynamics). In a career context, these Cs directly translate to better leadership, productivity, and innovation.
The B3 elements form the training component, detailing how to build these Cs. Goal Setting provides clear direction and motivation. Imagery (or visualization) allows professionals to rehearse success and calmly navigate future challenges mentally. Self-talk involves mastering inner dialogue to promote positive emotions and eliminate self-doubt.
The presentation will break down these elements, providing case studies and interactive exercises demonstrating how the B3 techniques can be applied to common career scenarios, such as salary negotiations, adapting to organizational change, and overcoming project failures. Attendees will leave with a powerful, personalized strategy for making their mental toughness their biggest career asset
Goals and Objectives :
Highlighting the role of emotional intelligence as a strategic tool to raise the quality of work in the work environment, enabling leaders and employees to build healthy professional relationships that enhance stability to raise productivity and innovation within organizations.
Abstract :
This presentation explores the role of emotional intelligence in building a successful work environment by enhancing self-awareness, managing emotions, improving communication, and raising the quality of professional relationships. The session empowers leaders and employees to make more informed decisions and create a positive work culture that supports performance and sustainability.
Summary :
This program provides an in-depth presentation on the role of emotional intelligence in enhancing the success of the work environment and building a healthy professional culture that supports performance and achievement. The content focuses on understanding the five components of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship management, and communication skills-and how to employ them to improve human interaction within organizations.
The session includes an analysis of the impact of emotional intelligence on job Behavior, Team Effectiveness, and transformational leadership, in addition to its role in reducing stress levels, reducing conflicts, and enhancing internal motivation. The program also presents approved scientific models and practical tools that enable participants to assess their emotional intelligence levels, and apply immediate strategies to raise their emotional efficiency in daily work contexts.
Real-life examples of working environments in the public and private sectors will be presented, focusing on recent transformations associated with a positive work culture, employee management, and raising the quality of the beneficiary’s experience. The session also addresses the direct relationship between emotional intelligence and leading high-performing teams, creating change, and supporting mental health in the workplace.
The program aims to enable participants-leaders, managers, and specialists—to adopt practices that enhance awareness and deepen human understanding, contributing to building more flexible, collaborative, harmonious, and sustainable institutions. The session concludes with practical steps that can be applied directly within the work environment to improve communication, increase productivity, and enhance professional affiliation.
Goals and Objectives :
This session equips higher education professionals with strategies to cultivate early leadership skills in youth and bridge the gap between academic learning and professional environments. Attendees will learn how experiential learning and project-based approaches foster initiative, responsibility, and decision-making abilities in students. Practical recommendations for universities on structured programs that enhance employability and leadership readiness will be shared, including examples of collaboration with government or public agencies to strengthen program impact. Participants will leave with actionable insights to design and implement youth empowerment initiatives.
Abstract :
This session explores how higher education can empower youth through experiential leadership and project-based learning. Participants will discover actionable strategies to transform academic knowledge into practical skills, fostering initiative, responsibility, and decision-making. Practical guidance and collaboration examples with public institutions will prepare students for professional success.
Summary :
This session explores how experiential, project-based learning can foster early leadership development among youth and students. Drawing on her extensive experience managing complex projects in banking, Lamiae Arafan demonstrates how structured projects can help young professionals develop responsibility, initiative, decision-making skills, and confidence.
Participants will gain insights into strategies for bridging the gap between theoretical education and real-world application. The session offers practical examples of project-based approaches that cultivate leadership mindsets while building self-awareness and professional readiness. Drawing on her experience as a career and leadership coach, Lamiae also shares lessons learned from coaching diverse professionals and newcomers, providing tools to empower individuals in their career transitions.
Attendees will leave with concrete ideas for implementing small-scale projects and reflective exercises within academic and organizational settings. The content is particularly valuable for educators, university administrators, government representatives, and organizations seeking innovative ways to prepare youth for the workforce and equip them with the confidence and skills to lead from the start.
Goals and Objectives :
This session introduces Career House, a model that applies the principles of corporate strategy to personal and professional growth. Participants will learn how to design their careers using strategic thinking and planning—defining a clear vision, crafting a personal branding statement, identifying goals and target roles, mapping essential competencies, and building the foundation for sustainable success. The presentation aims to equip professionals, coaches, and HR leaders with a structured framework to create purposeful, resilient careers that evolve in harmony with organizational transformation.
Abstract :
Career House transforms the logic of corporate strategy into a tool for human growth. It offers a structured, practical framework that empowers professionals to define their vision, build core competencies, and achieve sustainable career success through purposeful, measurable, and strategic development.
Summary :
Drawing on my long experience in strategy and transformation, I developed Career House as a model that helps individuals approach their careers with the same structure, logic, and discipline used in organizational strategy. The framework has six integrated layers: Career Vision, Personal Branding Statement, Board of Career Success, Strategic Career Goals, Competencies Map, and Foundation—which includes personal values, wellbeing, and self-assessment tools.
Through these components, Career House guides professionals to think strategically about their growth, applying analytical tools like SWOT to plan and track progress. It enables them to align ambition with action and transform learning into measurable outcomes.
Presented to several career-development experts in the Middle East, Career House received strong appreciation for its clarity, practicality, and its ability to merge strategy, leadership, and personal development. The session will blend thought leadership with practical exercises, helping participants design their own “career blueprint” that fosters purpose, resilience, and sustainability in an evolving world of work.
Goals and Objectives :
This interactive workshop equips professionals and leaders with the tools to navigate workplace challenges through empathy and emotional intelligence. Participants will learn how to identify and address compassion fatigue, manage conflicts constructively, and foster psychological safety within teams. Through reflective exercises and practical frameworks, the session aims to enhance self-awareness, improve communication, and build resilience in high-pressure environments. By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to apply empathy-driven leadership strategies that promote wellbeing, strengthen collaboration, and sustain performance in today’s demanding professional landscape.
Abstract :
This workshop empowers professionals to lead with empathy by addressing conflict and compassion fatigue through emotional intelligence. Participants will explore strategies to enhance self-awareness, manage tension, and foster wellbeing. By integrating empathy-driven leadership practices, they will cultivate resilience, psychological safety, and stronger collaboration within their professional environments.
Summary :
The workshop “Leading with Empathy: The Antidote to Conflict and Compassion Fatigue” explores the vital role of empathy and emotional intelligence in sustaining wellbeing, collaboration, and performance in today’s demanding professional environments. Grounded in contemporary leadership and psychology research, the session introduces participants to the neuroscience of empathy and its impact on decision-making, motivation, and conflict resolution.
Through a blend of reflection, group dialogue, and practical application, participants will learn to recognize early signs of compassion fatigue—often experienced by professionals in high-pressure or people-centered roles—and apply self-regulation techniques to restore balance and resilience. The workshop integrates elements from Daniel Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence framework, Kristin Neff’s Self-Compassion theory, and Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication model to help professionals navigate conflict with awareness and integrity.
Participants will engage in experiential activities that develop empathetic listening, perspective-taking, and mindful communication as tools to de-escalate tension and foster psychological safety. The program also provides actionable leadership strategies for building empathy-centered workplace cultures that prioritize both wellbeing and performance.
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
Identify the roots and symptoms of compassion fatigue.
Apply empathy-based approaches to conflict management.
Strengthen emotional resilience and self-awareness.
Lead with compassion, clarity, and connection.
This workshop invites professionals to move beyond reactive leadership toward a human-centered model that values empathy as a sustainable force for personal and organizational growth.
Goals and Objectives :
1.Recognize effective ways to connect academic advising with career development.
2.Utilize digital tools and emerging technologies to enhance advising impact.
3.Develop simple strategies to help students align academic choices with career goals.
Abstract :
This presentation highlights practical strategies for integrating career development into academic advising. It emphasizes how educators can connect academic planning with professional growth, apply data-informed and technology-driven approaches, and foster meaningful student engagement—helping learners translate their academic experiences into clear career pathways and sustainable success beyond graduation.
Summary :
This presentation introduces a practical, evidence-informed framework for integrating career development into academic advising. It draws on best practices from higher education institutions that have successfully aligned advising, teaching, and employability initiatives to enhance student engagement and long-term success.
The session begins by examining the shared purpose of academic and career advising, highlighting how both can work collaboratively to guide students from exploration to decision-making and goal attainment. Participants will explore models that embed career conversations into routine advising interactions, ensuring that each academic milestone connects meaningfully to future career pathways.
Building on current research and institutional case studies, the presentation demonstrates how emerging technologies—such as AI-powered advising tools, digital labor-market dashboards, and virtual reality career simulations—can transform advising into a more personalized, scalable, and data-driven experience. Practical examples will show how these tools help advisors map degree programs to skill sets, identify employability gaps, and empower students to make informed choices.
Interactive elements will allow participants to apply simple frameworks, create adaptable advising scripts, and design short interventions that link academic choices with career outcomes. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies and digital resources to strengthen advising programs and improve student readiness for an evolving workforce.
Goals and Objectives :
Recognize the importance of Career Guidance and the role of the family
Clarifying the role of the family in supporting children with educational and professional choices .
Identifying the impact of Family Counseling in improving the vision of ٢٠٣٠
Building a positive trend towards the importance of family participation in shaping the future of children.
Abstract :
Enable the family to exercise its effective role in guiding their children, which contributes to guiding them towards conscious educational and professional choices that support a bear to build a creative and qualified generation that achieves the objectives of the kingdom’s vision ٢٠٣٠ in the development of human capital and building a prosperous economy.
Summary :
Participate by presenting a presentation on the importance of professional counseling within the family and participate by activating individual counseling sessions.
Goals and Objectives :
– the objective of my presentation is to inspire participants/attendees to move beyond resilience ( the ability to endure challenges). The session aims to invite participants to explore how true growth doesn’t come only from recovering after adversity but from having the courage to redefine oneself, embrace change, and create new beginnings with confidence and intention.
Key goals include:
• Exploring the distinction between resilience and reinvention.
• Understanding how personal transformation drives sustained development.
• Encouraging participants to cultivate adaptability, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
• Providing practical tools for self-reflection and purposeful change
Abstract :
Resilience allows us to stand again after the storm — but what happens next?
This presentation takes participants on a journey beyond resilience, exploring the courage it takes to reinvent oneself after overcoming challenges. Drawing from real-life experiences, it delves into how individuals can transform adversity into opportunity, shift from survival to evolution, and find renewed meaning in their personal and professional lives.
Through a storytelling approach, the session highlights that reinvention is not about changing who we are, but about rediscovering our strengths, reimagining our possibilities, and aligning our values with our future vision. Participants will leave with actionable insights and reflective tools to embrace transformation with clarity, courage, and authenticity.
Summary :
This workshop explores how real growth comes not just from overcoming challenges but from the courage to redefine oneself and start anew with confidence and purpose. Through engaging reflection and practical tools, participants will learn how to embrace change, unlock their potential, and move forward with clarity in both their personal and professional lives.
Goals and Objectives :
The aim of choosing this topic is to highlight the latest technologies used in the field, as well as the role of technology in professional development.
Abstract :
Technology has become an important part of our daily lives and it is important to know how to deal with it in the field of professional development, the limits of use, the advantages and disadvantages of this decision, in addition to highlighting the latest technologies used in the field.
Summary :
Through my experience in the field of professional development, the projects I have worked on and the technology used in these projects, I would like to highlight the achieved results and the extent of their success
Goals and Objectives :
Active listening skills.
Asking better questions.
Showing empathy in conversations.
How good communication builds trust with managers, colleagues, and stakeholders.
Abstract :
This interactive workshop explores how everyday conversations can build trust and strengthen professional relationships. Participants will practice simple communication tools focused on active listening, empathy, and asking better questions. The session offers practical examples to help attendees turn routine interactions into meaningful connections that support their career growth.
Summary :
This session, “From Conversation to Connection: Building Trust through Communication”, focuses on how intentional communication can transform everyday interactions into opportunities for trust, collaboration, and career growth. Drawing on principles of human-centered communication and emotional intelligence, the workshop introduces practical tools that participants can immediately apply in their professional and personal lives.
The session will begin by exploring the role of trust in career development and why communication is more than just the words we say. Participants will reflect on their own communication habits and identify common barriers such as assumptions, distractions, and fear of judgment.
The workshop then moves into three key skill areas:
Active Listening: how to listen to understand, not just to respond, using verbal and non-verbal cues.
Empathy in Communication: recognizing emotions (your own and others’) and responding in a way that builds safety and respect.
Asking Better Questions: using open, curious questions to deepen conversations and strengthen relationships with colleagues, managers, and stakeholders.
Through short demonstrations, guided reflections, and simple interactive exercises, participants will practice turning routine conversations into meaningful connections. The session is designed to be accessible, engaging, and highly practical, especially for students, fresh graduates, and early-career professionals who want to enhance their presence, confidence, and impact in the workplace.
By the end of the workshop, attendees will leave with clear, memorable techniques to improve the way they listen, speak, and connect with others, skills that support long-term success in any career path.
Goals and Objectives :
Today we live in a VUCA world of uncertainty, uncertainty, rapid technological development and rapid and major changes in labor markets, how can we as individuals prepare for a future that we may not be able to predict or even make the future we want.
Abstract :
”
Your clear vision and message is the beginning to chart your future career..
What is the future you want
Future industry strategy
The compass of the future industry
Develop your future career ”
Summary :
“What is the future you want
Future industry strategy
The compass of the future industry
Develop your future career”
Goals and Objectives :
Enable career counselors to link career paths with personal goals and life goals.
Highlighting human skills — such as empathy, listening, deep communication, and confidence building — and their role in effective counseling.
Highlighting the importance of flexibility in keeping pace with the accelerated transformations in the labor market and supporting beneficiaries to adapt to them.
Provide mentors with practical tools and strategies that help individuals transform curiosity into sustainable career paths.
Abstract :
“In a world where change is accelerating and artificial intelligence technologies are developing at an unprecedented pace, the need for humane and flexible professional guidance that helps individuals find their compass amid constant transformations is increasing.
This workshop is based on Ken Roberts ‘ ideas about aligning career goals with life goals, and on Simon Sinek’s philosophy that puts “purpose” and”reason” at the heart of any successful path.
It also highlights the importance of human skills and agility in a rapidly changing world, where the role of a career mentor becomes pivotal in enabling individuals to adapt, continuously learn, and forge authentic and meaningful career paths.”
Summary :
“Employing the ideas of Ken Roberts and Simon Sinek to develop mentorship models that focus on purpose, meaning, and empowerment.
“
Goals and Objectives :
This workshop aims to equip career professionals and educators with practical frameworks for fostering innovation and adaptability. Participants will: (1) understand different mindset types and their impact on career success, (2) explore the integration of growth mindset, design thinking, and micro-project-based learning, (3) apply evidence-based strategies to enhance professional development, and (4) create actionable plans for building adaptive career capabilities aligned with modern workforce demands and innovation culture.
Abstract :
Discover how mindset transformation drives career innovation and adaptability. This interactive workshop explores six mindset pairs—growth vs. fixed, curious vs. expert, and others—and integrates design thinking and micro-project-based learning. Participants gain practical tools to cultivate innovation culture and build successful, adaptable career professionals in today’s dynamic workforce.
Summary :
In today’s rapidly evolving global workforce, adaptability and innovation have become essential career currencies. This workshop bridges groundbreaking research with practical application, drawing on Dr. Carol Dweck’s transformative work on growth mindset—which has demonstrated that employees with growth mindsets are 47% more likely to view colleagues as trustworthy and organizations see a 34% increase in performance. McKinsey research reveals that 39% of existing skill sets will transform by 2030, while the World Economic Forum identifies resilience, flexibility, and agility as core competencies for future success.
This dynamic, interactive workshop integrates three powerful pedagogical frameworks: growth mindset theory, design thinking, and micro-project-based learning. Participants will explore six critical mindset pairs—growth vs. fixed, curious vs. expert, creative vs. reactive, agent vs. victim, abundance vs. scarcity, and exploration vs. certainty—understanding how each shapes career trajectory and innovation capacity.
Drawing from ongoing EdD research conducted at vocational education institutions in Saudi Arabia (aligned with Vision 2030), this workshop demonstrates how combining mindset transformation with design thinking methodologies and hands-on micro-projects creates sustainable innovation culture. Participants will leave with actionable frameworks, practical tools, and evidence-based strategies to cultivate adaptable career professionals who thrive amid uncertainty and change.
Whether you’re a career development professional, HR leader, educator, or individual contributor, this workshop offers transformative insights and immediately applicable techniques for building successful, resilient, and innovation-ready professionals equipped for tomorrow’s dynamic workplace challenges.
Goals and Objectives :
This workshop aims to empower young professionals and students to make sustainable, fulfilling career choices by focusing on intrinsic motivation. Participants will:
• Identify their top 5 core personal and professional values to establish an internal career filter.
• Learn how values-alignment minimizes burnout and maximizes job satisfaction.
• Develop a clear, values-based narrative for articulating career goals in interviews and networking.
• Acquire a framework to proactively evaluate job opportunities beyond salary and title, ensuring long-term purpose-driven success.
Abstract :
Unlock the key to lasting career satisfaction. This interactive session teaches youth to define and align their core values with professional decisions. Learn to use your Inner Compass to move beyond external trends and design a successful, purpose-driven future.
Summary :
In an era of rapid career shifts, values-alignment is critical for both individual satisfaction and organizational coherence. This workshop provides youth with a powerful, actionable tool for a successful career: Core Values-Alignment.
The session centers around the ValYou Activity, a structured, hands-on process where attendees choose 20 values and then systematically eliminate them—through a travel analogy—to reveal their final 5 core values and their single non-negotiable value. Attendees will learn that this single value is highly related to their general satisfaction level and determines if they are in a toxic environment.
Participants will be guided to define their top 5 values and reflect on how to apply them in daily life. This framework empowers young people to filter career opportunities, better manage conflict, and build a career with deep, intrinsic meaning, ensuring their personal values guide their development and choices.
Goals and Objectives :
The goal of this presentation is to introduce FRANC, Antonine University’s pioneering digital career advisor, and highlight its role in transforming career guidance across the Arab region. The session aims to demonstrate how FRANC leverages technology to enhance student advising, streamline career-development processes, and expand access to personalized support. Key objectives include:
– illustrating the digital architecture and core functions of FRANC;
– showcasing its impact on student engagement, efficiency, and decision-making;
– sharing lessons learned from its development and implementation; and
– offering a scalable model for institutions seeking to integrate digital innovation into their career services.
The presentation ultimately seeks to inspire universities and career-development professionals to embrace technology-driven solutions that elevate employability and future-readiness in the Arab world.
Abstract :
Discover FRANC, Antonine University’s pioneering digital career advisor transforming student guidance in the Arab region. This presentation explores FRANC’s innovative features, its impact on career development services, and how digital intelligence can enhance employability, streamline advising, and inspire institutions to adopt technology-driven career-support models.
Summary :
The presentation will introduce FRANC, the first university-driven digital career advisor developed at Antonine University, to support students and alumni in navigating their professional pathways. This innovation represents a significant advancement in career-development services in the Arab region, combining artificial intelligence, career-guidance theory, and user-centered design to deliver personalized, accessible, and efficient advising.
The session will explore the motivation behind creating FRANC, the challenges faced in traditional career services, and the growing need for scalable, technology-enabled solutions that can meet students’ evolving expectations. Participants will gain insight into FRANC’s advising logic, interactive guidance modules, and integration with other university career resources. The presentation will also highlight how FRANC enhances student engagement, reduces advising bottlenecks, and supports more accurate self-assessment and decision-making.
An overview of the development process will be shared, outlining the collaborative work between the Career Center, the Faculty of Engineering – Computer Science Department. Key implementation steps—including design, testing, validation, and deployment—will be discussed alongside lessons learned throughout the project.
The session will demonstrate how FRANC has strengthened Antonine University’s employability ecosystem and contributed to a broader digital-transformation strategy in higher education. Emphasis will also be placed on the tool’s impact, student feedback, as well as future enhancements planned to expand FRANC’s capabilities.
By presenting this model, the session aims to inspire institutions across the Arab region to adopt innovative digital solutions that elevate career guidance, empower learners, and create more future-ready campuses.
Goals and Objectives :
“The aim of the workshop is not to choose a career… but to discover the value that learning can create.
* Understand the relationship between education and value creation
* Distinguish between (job resulting from specialization) and (opportunity resulting from value)
* Apply a practical model to transform learning into economic value
”
Abstract :
“The workshop focuses on a new concept in the relationship between education and the labor market, where learning becomes not only a way to get a job, but a way to create economically viable professional value. The workshop aims to enable students and professionals to transform their specialties and knowledge into services, solutions, or products that the market can need, giving them practical opportunities instead of waiting for opportunities.
The workshop deals with the difference between traditional education, which qualifies for employment only, and productive education, which creates solutions and initiatives that serve entities and individuals and create professional impact and gains. It also offers a practical model that helps participants discover a value that can be delivered within one minute, and start turning it into a realistic opportunity.”
Summary :
The workshop is based on a scientific approach based on international reports such as the future of jobs report of the World Economic Forum, which confirms that 60% of jobs by 2030 have not yet appeared, and that companies are now hiring solution providers, not just Certificate holders.
Goals and Objectives :
The workshop aims to enable participants to understand the principles of etiquette and business ethics and apply them effectively in the work environment. We focus on distinguishing etiquette and protocol, enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and building professional relationships based on respect and trust. We also provide practical tools that help participants improve their professional image and enhance their professional presence, which positively reflects on their professional reputation and the sustainability of their excellence in the organizations where they work.
Abstract :
“An applied workshop that will help you confidently draw your professional image.
Learn about the origins of professional etiquette, become more influential and respected in your work environment through your behavior, communication and everyday situations.”
Summary :
“The program :
This interactive workshop is presented, under the title “” etiquette and Business Ethics: your professional image… You are the one who draws it””, a practical training experience aimed at enabling participants to build a high-end professional image that reflects tact, professionalism, and self-awareness in the work environment. The workshop combines the concepts of etiquette and daily behaviors, official Protocols, Business Ethics from an Islamic and professional perspective, in addition to emotional intelligence skills and professional stress management.
The program includes interactive activities such as applied exercises, case studies, self-assessment tools, and a sample personal development plan that helps participants transform theoretical concepts into sustainable practical behavior.
The workshop is aimed at new employees and employees in the public and private sectors, who seek to enhance their professional image and build working relationships based on respect and mutual trust.
Professional coaching service:
As a certified professional coach and an international coach, I offer mentorship sessions focused on empowering individuals professionally and personally, by supporting them in:
– Choosing a career path
– Consciously and confidently develop the professional path.
– Improved performance and professional professional appearance.
– Prepare for a professional transition or retirement with thoughtful plans.
– Build self-confidence and enhance emotional intelligence in the work environment.
The sessions rely on a combination of internal coaching and practical behavioral training, to provide an integrated experience that helps the beneficiary achieve tangible development and a real transformation in his career.”
Goals and Objectives :
The goal of this presentation is to show how career development can strategically connect education with employment by aligning skills with real market requirements. The session aims to clarify the growing gap between academic outcomes and employer expectations, introduce practical tools that help students build job-ready competencies, and present a roadmap organizations can use to develop talent faster. By the end of the presentation, participants will understand how career pathways, competency mapping, and structured development programs can reduce the skills gap, respond to market needs, and support workforce priorities in line with Vision 2030.
Abstract :
This session explores how career development connects education to employment by aligning academic learning with real market requirements. It presents a practical model for building job-ready talent, reducing the skills gap, and supporting organizational and national priorities in the fast-evolving 2030 economy.
Summary :
Many organizations struggle with a growing mismatch between what students learn in education and what the modern job market requires. This session presents a clear and practical approach to using career development as the strategic bridge that closes this gap. It begins by identifying the main causes of the skills mismatch, including outdated academic content, limited exposure to real workplace challenges, and the rapid shift in market requirements driven by technology, digital transformation, and new job roles.
The presentation introduces a structured model that both universities and companies can use to prepare job-ready talent: market-driven competency mapping, early career awareness, experiential learning, mentorship, and continuous upskilling. Participants will learn how to transform academic knowledge into employability skills through practical development pathways that match current and future labor-market needs.
The session highlights the employer’s role in shaping a strong talent pipeline by offering internships, industry projects, technical exposure, and structured development plans. It also presents simple and practical tools—such as competency frameworks, development plans, and skill-assessment methods—that help organizations align talent development with market requirements.
By the end of this session, attendees will understand how connecting education with employment through a market-driven approach accelerates readiness, improves organizational performance, and supports national goals under Vision 2030. This ensures that graduates enter the workforce capable, confident, and ready to add value from day one.
Goals and Objectives :
This workshop covers effective strategies and activities for career development across primary, middle, high school and university levels. Highlighting the tools of artificial intelligence in the strategies of developing the professional path of students in those stages of study .
Abstract :
This interactive workshop focuses on :
1-developing the professional path of students in primary, middle, secondary and University. It outlines strategies and practical activities to build students ‘ skills, guide their academic and professional choices, and enhance their self-confidence to achieve a successful and bright future.
2-shed light on the development of AI tools to identify skills, guide academic and career options, an opportunity to experience intelligent learning !
Summary :
This workshop (two hours long) reviews the stages of self-discovery, strategies, tools and roles for professional development in the first school stage from kindergarten to university stage, the role of artificial intelligence tools in education and its impact on career path planning . The workshop will shed light on how to use artificial intelligence in personalized learning, intelligent correction, administrative support for teachers, providing round-the-clock assistance . In addition, the workshop will address the ethical aspects associated with the use of artificial intelligence, to prepare teachers and students for a future in which education is integrated with the development of the professional path.
Emphasis will be placed on the role of :
Teachers as academic and professional mentors،
Parents in supporting their children’s choices and enhancing their professional awareness،
Stakeholders (schools, community, and institutions) in providing a supportive and integrated learning environment that contributes to building a career path from the early stages .
Goals and Objectives :
This presentation aims to strengthen educators’ and professionals’ ability to sustain performance and well-being in crisis and high-pressure contexts. Participants will explore the impact of chronic stress and burnout on professional effectiveness, identify practical resilience strategies applicable to unstable environments, and reflect on the shared responsibility between individuals and organizations in fostering resilience. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with practical tools to assess stress, enhance coping mechanisms, and contribute to healthier, more supportive professional ecosystems.
Abstract :
Educators and professionals in crisis contexts face prolonged stress, instability, and burnout. This interactive session explores practical resilience strategies at both individual and organizational levels. Participants will engage in self-assessment and apply simple, evidence-informed tools to strengthen well-being, performance, and sustainability in challenging work environments.
Summary :
Working in crisis-affected and unstable contexts places educators and professionals under continuous psychological, emotional, and operational pressure. Prolonged exposure to stress, uncertainty, and high workloads often leads to burnout, reduced performance, and high staff turnover; directly affecting program quality and professional sustainability.
This presentation offers a practical and context-responsive approach to resilience, tailored to the realities of educators, managers, and humanitarian professionals in the Arab region. It examines how stress manifests in crisis environments, the difference between short-term coping and long-term resilience, and the limitations of placing responsibility solely on individuals.
Participants will explore evidence-informed resilience strategies that can be applied at both personal and organizational levels, including self-regulation techniques, boundary setting, peer support, and workplace practices that promote psychological safety. The session emphasizes organizational accountability in creating enabling environments that support staff well-being, rather than normalizing burnout as an individual failure.
Through guided reflection, a brief self-assessment, and a practical resilience toolkit, participants will leave with actionable strategies they can immediately apply in their professional roles. The session aims to support sustainable performance, healthier teams, and more resilient education and professional systems in crisis and fragile contexts.
Goals and Objectives :
“Raising corporate awareness of the importance of integrating career counseling into employee development strategies.
Enable HR administrators to understand the added value of mentoring in enhancing loyalty and reducing resignations.
Motivating organizations to adopt internal career guidance initiatives as one of the tools to improve the work environment.
Inspire practitioners and researchers to explore the relationship between an employee’s personal growth and the success of an organization.
Promote academic and professional dialogue about the future of Career Counseling in modern work environments.”
Abstract :
“At a time when organizations are investing huge budgets in traditional motivation tools—such as bonuses, internal events, loyalty programs—the rates of job burnout and voluntary resignations are still high.
This session discusses how career counseling can transform from an individual service to an organizational strategy that contributes to building a more conscious and connected work environment, by enabling the employee to understand himself, determine his path, and achieve compatibility between his personal goals and the goals of the organization.
The session focuses on the comparison between the “external” motivation tools adopted by companies today, versus the “internal motivation” effect created by career counseling, as deeper and more sustainable in raising affiliation and productivity.”
Summary :
“This session will discuss how career counseling can be integrated into the organization’s culture to become an effective element in enhancing employees’ affiliation, raising their productivity and sustaining their motivation. At a time when many companies rely on external motivation tools — such as rewards and recognition programs — this session emphasizes that real and sustainable motivation stems from the clarity of the internal goal and the professional self-awareness that career guidance creates.
Main themes:
From motivation to meaning:
A critical reading of the reasons why traditional motivation tools fail to achieve continuous integration, and how Career Counseling contributes to the development of self-motivation and deep commitment.
Career counseling as an institutional practice:
A presentation on how to integrate career counseling within human resources systems and professional development programs, and its role in supporting the growth path and reducing the rate of job dropout.
Enhance affiliation and productivity:
Discuss the relationship between the clarity of the professional role, opportunities for development and continuous guidance, and their impact on raising loyalty and organizational performance.
Towards a culture of professional growth and empowerment:
A call to rethink the concept of “employee experience” from the perspective of career counseling, the transition from a culture of reward to a culture of growth and internal empowerment.
The session focuses on a deeper understanding of how to align one’s goals with the goals of the organization, and build more conscious, connected, and productive work environments, through career counseling as both a strategic and humanitarian tool.”
presenter : Dr. Fawziah Muqhim Almutairi
Goals and Objectives :
Enable participants to systematically understand how to diagnose youth skills gaps in the kingdom’s regions, and link them to the local labor market and the developmental specifics of each region. It also seeks to provide a practical framework for designing need-responsive, data-and impact-based, and implementable professional development interventions by educational, developmental, and endowment entities. The presentation aims to promote analytical thinking, transform diagnostic results into programs and interventions with sustainable impact, highlighting practical models and practical tools.
Abstract :
This workshop is based on the field experience gained from practicing professional development sessions in the regions of the Kingdom, and provides a practical methodology for moving from diagnosing youth skills gaps to designing professional development interventions responsive to the local context and the labor market, with models and tools that are directly applicable.
Summary :
“This workshop provides an applied framework based on professional practice to design professional development interventions that address youth skills gaps in the regions of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The workshop is based on the direct field experience of the presenter, gained through professional development tours in a number of regions of the kingdom, where a clear gap was observed between the specialties or educational and training programs and the actual needs of the local labor market.
The workshop presents an integrated methodology for moving from the stage of diagnosing skills gaps to the stage of designing professional development interventions responsive to the local context. This methodology includes four main stages: diagnosing skills gaps, analyzing the characteristics of the labor market and economic opportunities in each region, designing targeted professional development interventions using a practical model (intervention card), and finally thinking about impact and sustainability measurement indicators.
“
Goals and Objectives :
The workshop aims to highlight the role of career counseling as a strategic approach that contributes to raising the quality of employment and the tasks of employees and enhancing the compatibility between the capabilities of individuals and the needs of the organization, in order to achieve professional satisfaction and organizational efficiency together. It also seeks to enable career counselors and Human Resources officials to employ guidance tools in the stages of recruitment, recruitment, job rotation and distribution of tasks, to ensure the sustainability of performance and reduce job turnover rates. The workshop deals with the importance of understanding inclinations and abilities as a basis for making more accurate professional decisions, and their role in building a stimulating work environment that contributes to the development of human capital and achieving positive impact at the individual and organizational level.
Abstract :
An interactive workshop that highlights the role of career guidance in achieving compatibility between the employee’s inclinations, abilities, values and the needs of the organization. It focuses on empowering individuals to discover their self and career orientations, and helping organizations align these orientations with tasks to achieve best practices, highest performance levels, and sustainable success.
Summary :
“The workshop deals with the concept of career counseling as a strategic approach to enhance the quality of employment, raise the efficiency of employees and harmonize the individual and the organization, by reviewing the latest practices and applications that link professional inclinations, abilities, personal values, and job requirements.
The content is presented in an interactive application framework that combines the scientific and practical aspect, while relying on various professional theories as a theoretical basis to explain the relationship between employee satisfaction and the sustainability of organizational performance.
The workshop includes learning about career counseling tools that help in discovering inclinations, identifying motivational strengths and values, and how to use their results in the stages of polarization, interviews, and task distribution. It also highlights the role of career counselors and HR administrators in using these tools to support smart hiring decisions and achieve a more compatible and motivating work environment.
Through a real-life case study, the impact of poor professional compatibility on job burnout and performance will be clarified, as opposed to the results of success when aligning the nature of work with the orientations of individuals.
The workshop concludes with a presentation of the best guiding practices within organizations, and the mechanisms of integrating the concept of professional compatibility in human resources policies, in order to build organizations more aware of the identity of their employees, and individuals more affiliated and passionate about what they do.
The workshop is aimed at career counselors, HR managers, and organizational leaders who want to achieve a sustainable balance between business and human needs and employees who want to improve their careers”
Goals and Objectives :
The workshop aims to introduce participants to the bank’s methodology as a practical tool to enhance the impact and effectiveness of leadership. By understanding personal value patterns, attendees will learn how to develop communication skills, adjust leadership style, and build stronger professional relationships. The workshop also provides them with strategies to increase the level of interaction within teams, improve productivity, and apply value-based communication in various work situations.
Abstract :
The workshop presents the bank methodology as an effective tool for understanding personal value patterns and enhancing influence and leadership skills. Participants will learn how to improve communication, align leadership styles, and build stronger professional relationships, contributing to productivity and supporting work environments with values-based communication.
Summary :
“This workshop presents the bank methodology as a modern framework for understanding the deep motivations of personality types, and using this understanding to enhance influence and leadership skills in professional environments. The methodology is based on four basic value patterns that enable the leader to quickly read the needs of others, build effective communication based on a real understanding of human behavior.
The workshop will discuss how to apply BANK in different work contexts, such as managing teams, improving employee relationships, and developing leadership styles in accordance with different personalities. Practical tools will also be reviewed that will help participants analyze their personal patterns, develop their abilities to have a positive impact, and raise the quality of communication within organizations.
The workshop also focuses on the role of methodology in employee development, through improving interaction, increasing productivity, and reducing communication gaps within the team. Real-life examples will be presented that illustrate the impact of the BANK application in raising the level of leadership performance and creating healthier and more harmonious work environments.
The session aims to provide participants with an integrated approach that links personal values and effective leadership, and establishes a sustainable professional style in building successful relationships and managing change”
Goals and Objectives :
This presentation aims to equip parents, educators, and institutions with practical tools from career coaching and positive psychology to support adolescents in building a strong identity, resilient mindset, and clear career direction. It focuses on strengthening parent–youth relationships during adolescence, developing strengths-based thinking, emotional regulation, and autonomous motivation, and applying practical methodologies to raise awareness, identify, and reshape limiting beliefs. Participants will also learn to use structured career-coaching assessments to guide informed educational and professional choices, integrating family support, positive discipline, and well-being frameworks aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
Abstract :
This session reveals how beliefs, family connection, and emotional intelligence shape youth decisions and long-term success. Through practical tools and evidence-based methodologies, participants will learn how to raise awareness, break limiting patterns, and empower young people to think clearly, choose wisely, and grow with confidence.
Summary :
This session presents an integrated youth-empowerment framework that connects family dynamics, adolescent identity development, positive psychology coaching, and career coaching within the context of today’s rapidly changing social and labor environments.
Participants will explore how parental relationships and emotional climate influence adolescents’ sense of identity, self-worth, and decision-making, particularly during periods of psychological vulnerability and media-driven comparison. The program introduces a strengths-based model that shifts from correcting deficits to cultivating internal resources such as resilience, autonomy, and purpose, grounded in Self-Determination Theory, the PERMA model of well-being, and the 7 Cs of Resilience.
The session will demonstrate practical methodologies to raise self-awareness, identify and reshape limiting beliefs using cognitive frameworks such as the ABC Model, and strengthen emotional regulation through positive-discipline principles rooted in Adlerian psychology.
From a career-development perspective, participants will learn how structured career-coaching tools can transform confusion into clarity. These include the VIA Character Strengths assessment, Holland’s RIASEC model, the BANK assessment for decision-making styles, and the MyNextMove career exploration platform. Together, these tools support identity clarification, strengths alignment, and informed educational and professional planning.
The program emphasizes building a supportive “youth ecosystem” (nexus) linking families, schools, and institutions, ensuring that guidance is consistent and developmentally appropriate.
Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, this approach prepares youth not only for employment, but for adaptive leadership, lifelong learning, and meaningful contribution to a knowledge-based economy.
Goals and Objectives :
Emphasize the need for the existence and activation of systematic and sustainable vocational guidance programs based on education ( within the school environment), as the main pillar to enable young people to manage their careers and make informed career decisions for their future, especially to keep abreast of rapid changes in the global labor market.
Abstract :
Highlighting the importance of integrating career guidance programs with cutting-edge teaching methods within schools. Review of theories, modern studies and practical experiences that support the efficiency and sustainability of the impact of vocational guidance based on education in facilitating the transition of young people to the labor market.
Summary :
“School career counseling: a necessity for today’s youth to cross into the future
In light of the rapid transformations witnessed by the global and regional labor market, and the accompanying profound changes in current jobs and the transition to future jobs and the appropriate skills for them, there is an urgent need to consolidate school vocational guidance as one of the strategic pillars of modern education systems. Career counseling is no longer a marginal service or a supportive activity, but has become a central tool to enable students to manage their careers through their ability to make informed and realistic educational and professional decisions.
This session aims to highlight the vital role of school career guidance in preparing students from the early school stages to be able to adapt to the knowledge economy and actively participate in achieving sustainable development. The session is based on the basic premise that early and systematic investment in vocational guidance contributes to reducing the gap between education outcomes and the needs of the labor market, and enhances the readiness of young people for a smooth transition from the world of education to the world of work.
The session deals with the conceptual framework of school vocational guidance, its developmental, psychological and educational dimensions, while reviewing successful international and regional models in integrating vocational guidance into educational policies. It also discusses the challenges facing the application of vocational guidance in schools, such as the lack of qualified cadres, the weak integration between the school and the labor market, and the need for modern tools based on data and digital technologies.
The session pays special attention to the Saudi context, in light of the objectives of national development and building a human capital capable of competing globally, by highlighting the importance of preparing qualified professional mentors within schools and universities, and developing curricula and guidance activities that take into account the characteristics of students, the culture of society, and the requirements of the national economy.”
Goals and Objectives :
“1 -highlighting the use of Positive Psychology in professional counseling
2 – highlighting strengths, emotional intelligence, dealing with frustrations and negative mind talk ( negative self talks ). ”
Abstract :
Coaching and positive psychology are linked to professional development by promoting awareness of abilities, building emotional intelligence, motivating strengths to enable individuals to achieve optimal performance, increase professional satisfaction, and create growth paths based on values, meaning, and sustainable achievement.
Goals and Objectives :
This presentation aims to clarify how to build effective development strategies based on a comprehensive reading of personal assessments, including strengths, values, motivations, and behavioral patterns. It seeks to empower individuals to use the results of personal assessments professionally in a way that supports their career path, contributes to leadership development, and builds career paths, while correcting the common misconception that reduces development to a single tool. It also aims to transform assessment results from theoretical reports into actionable development decisions and practical applications.
Abstract :
This presentation outlines a practical methodology for building development strategies based on the integration of personal metrics, by linking strengths, values, motivations, and behaviors, and highlights how to transform metric results into effective tools for decision support and professional development, moving away from classification or reliance on a single metric.
Summary :
This presentation focuses on the concept of integrated personality assessment as a strategic approach to understanding individuals before their development. It is based on the premise that any effective developmental intervention cannot succeed if it relies on a single assessment or a fragmented reading of personality.
The presentation demonstrates how to utilize a range of diverse personality assessments—such as those measuring values and motivations, behavioral patterns, and strengths—and connect their results to create a holistic profile of the individual. This profile reveals what motivates them, what drains them, and where they can excel or struggle.
It also outlines the work stages, starting with conscious diagnosis, moving through the analysis and integration of assessment results, and finally translating these results into practical applications in career guidance, career path development, leadership development, and the design of developmental initiatives.
The presentation emphasizes the professional use of assessments as tools for understanding behavior and decision-making, not for judgment or categorization. It presents practical models that illustrate how personal data can be transformed into realistic, flexible, and measurable development plans that benefit both the individual and the organization.
Goals and Objectives :
A simplified interactive workshop aimed at helping young people understand the importance of setting goals as a fundamental step in education and empowerment, differentiating between a dream and a goal, and learning an easy way to formulate a clear and achievable goal, thereby enhancing self-confidence and motivation for learning and development.
Abstract :
A simplified interactive workshop aimed at helping young people understand the importance of setting goals as a fundamental step in education and empowerment, differentiating between a dream and a goal, and learning an easy way to formulate clear and actionable goals, thereby enhancing self-confidence and motivation to learn and develop.
Summary :
This interactive workshop focuses on empowering young people to understand the concept of goal setting and its importance in building their educational and personal paths. The workshop clarifies the difference between a dream and a goal, and helps participants transform their aspirations into clear and achievable objectives using a simplified and practical approach. It also boosts self-confidence and stimulates motivation for learning and development through interactive activities and group discussions.
Goals and Objectives :
1- Review and define the roles that the career counselor plays in the lives of clients.
2- Concepts and values for building trust between the counselor and the beneficiary.
Abstract :
1- We, as counselors, are among the most helpful and supportive people. We have the ability to play many roles that serve others, and sometimes we get carried away and take on roles that may not be ours. In this workshop, we will explore some of these roles and determine if they are suitable for a career counselor.
2- Client trust is one of the most important factors in the success of the counseling process. What is it, and how do we build it? This is what we will discuss.
Goals and Objectives :
Upon completion of this workshop, participants will be able to:
Identify and Categorize their three primary professional interests and translate them into marketable skill clusters.
Analyze the alignment between their personal interests and current/future labor market demands.
Design a preliminary, personalized “Mastery Pathway”—a multi-step plan for acquiring the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience in their chosen path.
Adopt a proactive mindset that views learning and skill acquisition as a continuous journey toward professional excellence.
Abstract :
This workshop addresses a critical challenge for young minds: bridging the gap between personal interests and professional success. Drawing on evidence that connecting passions to purpose drives deeper engagement, this session equips participants with practical tools to identify their core interests, analyze market demand, and structure a personalized “Mastery Pathway.” As a Career Facilitator passionate about fostering positive change, I will guide attendees to shift their focus from identifying a job to designing a career where they can leverage their unique talents for meaningful impact. Participants will leave with a clear methodology for transforming abstract curiosity into concrete professional value.
Summary :
This workshop, “The New Generation’s Compass,” teaches young minds how to actively design their careers instead of passively choosing them.
The approach is strongly rooted in Career Construction Theory (Mark Savickas), emphasizing that career paths must be built on personal identity, meaning, and adaptability. Local survey data confirms this need, highlighting a clear demand from students for practical tools to identify professional interests and set goals.
The central technique is the “Interest-to-Value Matrix.” This resource guides participants to link their core passions to real-world skills and market value. The ultimate outcome is the creation of a personalized “Mastery Pathway,” which transforms abstract curiosity into concrete, multi-step actions for achieving long-term professional excellence. This program is essential for driving positive, lasting change in the next generation.
Goals and Objectives :
1. To clarify the importance of digital educational platforms in supporting the education and academic development of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, drawing on global experiences and best practices.
2. To highlight current gaps and challenges in educational platforms from the perspective of the characteristics and needs of deaf students.
3. To present a professional framework for designing educational platforms suitable for deaf individuals (technical, visual-linguistic, pedagogical, and cultural standards).
4. To showcase the SAD educational platform for the deaf and hard of hearing as a leading Arab applied model, and to explain how it contributes to bridging the gap in specialized sign language content, particularly in mathematics, science, and computer science.
Abstract :
The workshop highlights the importance of digital educational platforms in supporting the learning of the deaf and hard of hearing, while discussing the quality and accessibility standards that should be considered in their design, and reviewing the SAD educational platform as an applied model that highlights the potential of these platforms in promoting access and effective learning.
Summary :
Recent years have witnessed a significant expansion in the use of digital learning platforms across all stages of education, training, and professional development. However, many of these platforms remain inadequately adapted to the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in terms of sign language, text translation, interactive visual design, and training content tailored to their needs. They also do not invest sufficiently in supporting their academic achievement or professional development. Furthermore, a number of platforms are limited to text translation without the systematic integration of local sign language, or lack visual design that meets the needs of deaf people, thus limiting their effectiveness in learning. Some platforms also lack specialized scientific dictionaries. There is a clear need for specialized platforms or general platforms that consider accessibility standards and adapt to the characteristics of deaf individuals, in light of the global principles of Universal Design for Learning and technical standards such as web accessibility guidelines.
Target Audience:
• Teachers of students with hearing impairments (deaf, hard-of-hearing, cochlear implants)
• Special education teachers and learning resource room staff
• Supervisors of programs for students with hearing impairments (deaf, hard-of-hearing, Cochlear Implant Recipients
• Digital Content and Educational Platform Developers
Topics: The importance of educational platforms for students with hearing impairments (deaf, hard of hearing, cochlear implant recipients) – Gaps and challenges facing educational platforms for students with hearing impairments (deaf, hard of hearing, cochlear implant recipients) – Standards for a suitable platform for students with hearing impairments (deaf, hard of hearing, cochlear implant recipients) – Presenting the SAD platform as a model “
Goals and Objectives :
This paper aims to present a comprehensive methodology for developing university students’ skills to enhance their readiness for the Saudi labor market. This methodology consists of six stages, implemented in collaboration with employers and other relevant stakeholders.
Abstract :
A Proposed Methodology for Developing University Students’ Skills to Meet the Requirements of the Saudi Labor Market.
Summary :
Saudi universities face a growing challenge in aligning their educational outcomes with labor market demands, particularly in light of the economic and social transformations driven by Saudi Vision 2030. This paper aims to present a comprehensive methodology for developing university students’ skills to enhance their readiness for the Saudi labor market. The methodology begins with a skills gap analysis, followed by career guidance before university admission, the design of a model of essential skills required for graduation, the integration of theoretical curricula with field training, partnerships with employers, and finally, the continuous measurement and improvement of the methodology and its impact.
Goals and Objectives :
“Participatory role with family and community
Cooperation with parents to create a supportive environment for choosing the right career.
Connecting the school with the local community through field visits or meetings with professionals.
Introducing students to real job opportunities available in the local environment.”
Abstract :
“Defining independence in general
What is professional independence?
What is the role of educators?
What is the personal role in supporting independence and confidence in the professional field?
Pillars and mechanisms of change and development”
Summary :
Professional development tactics
Goals and Objectives :
This presentation aims to introduce a unified and practical career development model that integrates RIASEC interest profiling, Gallup strengths, SHRM competency frameworks, and ATD learning methodologies. Participants will learn how to diagnose employee career identity, align strengths with organizational roles, assess competency gaps, and design structured development plans using the 70-20-10 approach. The objective is to equip HR and L&D professionals with an actionable framework that transforms employee potential into measurable performance, strengthens internal mobility, and supports sustainable talent growth.
Abstract :
This session presents a practical framework that integrates RIASEC, Gallup strengths, SHRM competencies, and ATD development practices to transform employee potential into performance. Participants will learn how to align interests, strengths, and skills with organizational career pathways to enhance engagement, mobility, and long-term talent growth.
Summary :
This presentation introduces an integrated career development model designed to help organizations move employees from untapped potential to measurable performance. The framework combines four globally recognized approaches: Holland’s RIASEC model for identifying vocational interests, Gallup CliftonStrengths for leveraging natural talents, SHRM competency frameworks for defining role readiness, and ATD development methodologies for structured learning and capability growth.
The session demonstrates how these models can be applied systematically inside organizations. It begins with career identity diagnosis through interest and strengths assessment, followed by mapping employees to suitable job families using competency-based role architecture. Participants will explore how to conduct competency gap analysis aligned with SHRM behavioral and technical standards and how to design practical development plans using ATD’s 70-20-10 model, including stretch assignments, coaching, and targeted learning interventions.
Through a structured case example of an HR professional, the audience will observe how integrating interests, strengths, and competencies enhances clarity in career conversations, supports internal mobility, and strengthens succession planning. The framework also enables HR and L&D leaders to build transparent career pathways and align individual aspirations with strategic workforce needs.
By the end of the session, attendees will gain a clear blueprint to implement an evidence-based, strengths-driven career development ecosystem within their organizations.
Goals and Objectives :
This presentation aims to introduce a unified and practical career development model that integrates RIASEC interest profiling, Gallup strengths, SHRM competency frameworks, and ATD learning methodologies. Participants will learn how to diagnose employee career identity, align strengths with organizational roles, assess competency gaps, and design structured development plans using the 70-20-10 approach. The objective is to equip HR and L&D professionals with an actionable framework that transforms employee potential into measurable performance, strengthens internal mobility, and supports sustainable talent growth.
Abstract :
This session presents a practical framework that integrates RIASEC, Gallup strengths, SHRM competencies, and ATD development practices to transform employee potential into performance. Participants will learn how to align interests, strengths, and skills with organizational career pathways to enhance engagement, mobility, and long-term talent growth.
Summary :
This presentation introduces an integrated career development model designed to help organizations move employees from untapped potential to measurable performance. The framework combines four globally recognized approaches: Holland’s RIASEC model for identifying vocational interests, Gallup CliftonStrengths for leveraging natural talents, SHRM competency frameworks for defining role readiness, and ATD development methodologies for structured learning and capability growth.
The session demonstrates how these models can be applied systematically inside organizations. It begins with career identity diagnosis through interest and strengths assessment, followed by mapping employees to suitable job families using competency-based role architecture. Participants will explore how to conduct competency gap analysis aligned with SHRM behavioral and technical standards and how to design practical development plans using ATD’s 70-20-10 model, including stretch assignments, coaching, and targeted learning interventions.
Through a structured case example of an HR professional, the audience will observe how integrating interests, strengths, and competencies enhances clarity in career conversations, supports internal mobility, and strengthens succession planning. The framework also enables HR and L&D leaders to build transparent career pathways and align individual aspirations with strategic workforce needs.
By the end of the session, attendees will gain a clear blueprint to implement an evidence-based, strengths-driven career development ecosystem within their organizations.
Goals and Objectives :
– To enable participants to understand the methodology for designing integrated training programs.
– The importance of identifying the actual needs of the sector before starting any training program.
– How to design an integrated training program structure that includes delivering information, developing skills, deepening sound professional practice, and transferring expertise.
– The importance of flexibility when designing training programs that take into account the administrative and leadership level of the participants.
– Focusing on impact rather than content.
Abstract :
Training is not about transferring knowledge… it’s about building readiness.
It’s not just a slideshow… it’s a comprehensive journey.
Today, I’m not talking about designing training courses… but about the philosophy of designing integrated programs that stem from genuine needs,
integrating knowledge, skill development, practical application, and experience transfer,
through multiple pathways that ensure training becomes a lasting impact.
And therein lies the difference… between programs that are delivered and programs that make a difference.
Summary :
The Empowerment Journey: Designing Multi-Track Training Programs for a Deeper Impact
This workshop focuses on providing a comprehensive, practical framework for designing training programs that go beyond simply transferring knowledge to achieving a tangible and sustainable impact on organizational performance. The workshop is based on the principle that effective training is not built on assumptions, but rather on a thorough understanding of the sector’s actual needs and organizational context, ensuring that training outcomes align with real challenges and development opportunities.
The workshop explores a methodology for designing training programs by building axes based on needs analysis and designing multiple learning paths that combine theoretical knowledge, practical skills development, hands-on experience, and professional expertise transfer. It also highlights the importance of diversifying and integrating training methods to enhance the depth of learning and elevate the level of interaction and empowerment.
The workshop also discusses the importance of flexibility in designing and implementing training programs, allowing for the adaptation of content and methods to different leadership levels and participants’ needs, thus ensuring maximum impact and sustainability.
At the end of the workshop, participants will learn about a practical model that can be applied to design integrated training programs capable of transforming learning into performance, performance into results, and results into a sustainable impact that supports institutional excellence.
Goals and Objectives :
The presentation aims to uncover the hidden gaps that lead to career stagnation despite numerous training and development programs. It offers a practical framework for diagnosing the shortcomings of the professional development system and aligning development efforts with the actual needs of the workforce, thereby supporting talent mobility and growth more effectively.
Abstract :
We will discover the real reasons for the stagnation of career paths within organizations, and propose practical approaches to bridge the gap between development efforts and actual professional growth.
Summary :
Despite significant investments in training and development, many organizations still face weak employee engagement, limited internal mobility, and unclear career paths. This presentation addresses the fundamental gap between professional development initiatives and their actual impact on talent growth.
Drawing on practical experience in human capital and career guidance, the presentation discusses the structural and cultural barriers that lead to career stagnation, such as fragmented development programs, unclear competency frameworks, and poor career path transparency.
The presentation offers a diagnostic perspective that helps organizations and individuals identify the shortcomings in their professional development ecosystem, from skills alignment to talent mobility and leadership roles. It also outlines practical steps to transform professional development from disparate initiatives into an integrated system that delivers tangible performance and talent retention.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of why traditional practices falter and how to redesign them to achieve real, measurable results.
Goals and Objectives :
To discuss selected accounts of the experiences of five careers practitioners and their professional values within career counselling sessions in Saudi Arabia, accompanied by personal reflections shared by the author.
Abstract :
In 2015, HRDF established the Kingdom’s first national standards for careers education and development. These standards defined a set of professional values for how careers practitioners working in the careers industry should approach their work. This small-scale study is presented by the author who lived, studied, and worked in KSA for the period 2015-2023 as part of a Masters’ thesis, and contributed to building human capability in Saudi Arabia.
Summary :
Using a qualitative approach, this exploratory study provides an insight into the accounts of how professional values of careers practitioners are manifested during career counselling sessions. An interpretivist and social constructionist orientation was adopted to explore the subjective experiences of five participants. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect in-depth qualitative data from career practitioners involved in practising career counselling in Saudi Arabia.
Goals and Objectives :
This session reframes career development as a form of national infrastructure that supports human capital development, workforce resilience, and long-term socio-economic transformation. Participants will explore how career development contributes to national priorities such as youth employment, economic diversification, social stability, and post-COVID recovery. Through interactive dialogue and applied reflection, practitioners will examine how their work connects individual career decision-making to broader community and national outcomes, and identify practical strategies for strengthening career development systems within their local contexts.
Abstract :
Career development is increasingly recognized as a strategic national investment rather than an individual service. This interactive session explores career development as national infrastructure – supporting youth transitions, workforce resilience, and economic transformation – while offering practitioners practical ways to align their work with national priorities and community needs.
Summary :
Across the MENA region, governments are placing growing emphasis on career development as a driver of workforce readiness, youth engagement, and economic resilience. Yet career development is still often understood narrowly as individual counselling or job placement, rather than as a coordinated system that supports national development goals.
This interactive plenary invites practitioners to reconceptualize career development as national infrastructure, a foundational system that strengthens human capital, supports economic diversification, and fosters social stability. Drawing on global practice and regional examples, the session highlights how career development contributes to national capability by enabling informed decision-making, smoother education-to-work transitions, and adaptive responses to labour market change.
Participants will explore the role of practitioners within broader career development ecosystems that include education, families, employers, communities, and government policy. Through facilitated discussion, reflective activities, and peer exchange, attendees will identify practical ways to align their daily practice with national visions and workforce strategies while remaining culturally responsive and locally grounded.
The session emphasizes transferable principles rather than imported models, encouraging participants to adapt insights to their own contexts. By the end of the plenary, practitioners will leave with a clearer understanding of how career development supports national resilience, and how their work contributes meaningfully to the future of their societies.
Goals and Objectives :
The workshop aims to help participants critically examine the myth of “follow your passion” and shift toward cultivating purpose as a more reliable compass for career success. Through career development frameworks such as Super’s Life-Span, Life-Space theory and Savickas’ Career Construction approach, participants will reflect on how passion, while energizing, can be fleeting or misleading when used as the sole career driver. Objectives include uncovering the risks of a passion-only path, identifying personal values and life themes that anchor purpose, and practicing tools to align decisions with meaning and contribution. By the end, participants will gain clarity and actionable strategies to pursue purposeful career growth.
Abstract :
This workshop challenges the “follow your passion” myth by showing how passion can mislead career choices. Grounded in career development theories, participants will explore purpose as a more sustainable guide, engaging in reflective and practical activities that help align personal values, strengths, and contribution with long-term career fulfillment.
Summary :
“Follow your passion” is an attractive mantra, but research and experience reveal it often leads to frustration, misalignment, or even burnout. Passion can shift with trends, circumstances, or fleeting interests. Purpose, however, offers a steadier anchor—rooted in values, identity, and contribution.
In this interactive workshop, participants will explore the tension between passion and purpose, drawing on established career development theories such as Super’s Life-Span, Life-Space theory, Holland’s RIASEC vocational interests, and Savickas’ Career Construction framework. We will reflect on how careers evolve beyond initial passions and why a purpose-driven approach provides resilience and adaptability in a changing work landscape.
Practical activities include:
• Passion audit: examining where passion may mislead career decisions.
• Purpose map: clarifying personal values and life themes that anchor direction.
• Decision lens: applying a purpose-based tool to assess new opportunities.
Participants will leave with sharper awareness of the limits of passion, a renewed focus on purpose as their career compass, and practical strategies for aligning passion with a deeper sense of meaning—ensuring their careers are not only exciting but also enduringly fulfilling.
