Riyadh, KSA– January 22, 2025: Dell Technologies, Aramco and National IT Academy (NITA) celebrated the graduation of talented Saudi students from the 18-weeks “ITXcelerate” program.
These graduates have earned globally recognized Dell Proven Professional Certifications in Information & Storage Management and Data Science & Big Data Analytics, equipping them with advanced technical expertise and positioning them as future leaders in the tech industry. They also gained invaluable real-world experience through on-site job shadowing at Dell Technologies’ Riyadh premises and tackled industry-relevant challenges in a collaborative Dell-Aramco use case project.
For this year’s cohort, the use case projects were categorized by four groups:
Group one:Multi-Cloud & Deployment: Focused on modernizing Aramco’s data centers by integrating multi-cloud environments and advanced technologies like AI. The adoption of the solution could lead to potential enhancement on the scalability, flexibility, and innovation in IT infrastructure while aligning with global best practices.
Group two: Cybersecurity: Prioritized safeguarding Aramco’s data and operations by implementing advanced cybersecurity solutions from Dell Technologies. The group strengthened defences against evolving cyber threats, ensuring robust data protection and business resilience.
Group three:HPC/AI: Leveraged high-performance computing and AI to transform seismic data analysis, improving speed, accuracy, and efficiency. This supported better decision-making in exploration and production, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs.
Group Four:Data Lakehouse: Addressed data management challenges by developing a unified data architecture combining the benefits of data lakes and warehouses. This approach streamlined data storage, retrieval, and analysis, accelerating decision-making and supporting future growth.
Dell Technologies, Aramco and NITA remain committed to nurturing local talent and fostering a vibrant, innovation-driven technology ecosystem, that is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to foster economic diversification and digital transformation.
This milestone underscores the success of the “ITXcelerate” program in bridging the gap between academic learning and professional readiness, empowering Saudi youth to drive the future of the Kingdom’s digital economy.
The ceremony was attended by the students and their families as well as officials from Dell Technologies, Aramco and NITA.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – January 14, 2025 – After a successful round of funding, Teammates.ai launches a category-defining platform that drastically transforms the way businesses operate. Previously known as Uktob.ai, the rebranded platformbuilds on its experience in artificial intelligence (AI) agents, enabling businesses to use AI to take on entire job functions through Autonomous AI Teammates.
This announcement marks a significant milestone for the company. The rebranding to Teammates.ai coincides with a strategic shift to provide enterprise-grade AI solutions and an expanding collection of Teammates. The first Teammate, Raya, was launched in 2024, focusing on customer service. Its capabilities include voice calling, inbox management, and seamless software integration allowing it to effectively support every function of the role.
Alongside Raya, the company is launching its second Teammate, specialized in Inside Sales. With superior language competencies and an Arabic user interface, every Teammate has leading AI capabilities that allow them to speak and understand over 50 languages, including every dialect of the Arabic language; a first for the MENA region.
Expressing his excitement over the launch, Kareem Ayyad, Founder and CEO of Teammates.ai, said, “Rebranding to Teammates.ai marks a defining moment in our journey to transform how businesses leverage AI. Raya and our newly launched Sales Teammate are just the beginning of a broader AI Workforce—designed to work alongside human teams. We’ve already seen how this approach cuts costs, amplifies productivity, and empowers employees to focus on higher-impact challenges. This is only the beginning—each new AI Teammate pushes the boundaries of what’s possible for modern enterprises.”
Elizabeth Yin, General Partner at Hustle Fund, added, “2025 is the year of AI Agents, and Teammates is making work easier for people to become more efficient in their jobs. We’re super excited for their launch!”
Prior to its rebranding, Teammates.ai has built a successful track record by partnering with five leading governmental entities in the GCC. Notably, the company delivered the world’s largest Prompt Engineering Championship in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation, the Artificial Intelligence Office, and the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs—further demonstrating its leading role in the AI space. It was selected as one of the Future100 companies in the UAE by the Ministry of Economy. In addition, its previous AI assistant, Faheem, organically scaled within a few months, with over 400,000 users. These achievements helped the company attract funding from top tier global venture capital investors including Silicon Valley’s Hustle Fund, Access Bridge Ventures, Oraseya Capital, Beyond Capital, as well as notable angel investors from across the globe.
Liesa Euton, an American born and educated in New York City, the Dutch, and the French Antilles, brings a wealth of experience from her 23-year career in the hospitality industry. Holding degrees in psychology and hospitality management, she began her journey as the general manager of The Sea Palace Resort, where she served for 17 years. During her tenure, Liesa was also the President of the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association for four years and was instrumental in creating Timeshare Law as President of the Timeshare Association. Over her two decades in St. Maarten, she served on 29 boards, participated in parliamentary elections, and contributed to SESNA, overseeing soft loan approvals for the EU. Liesa ran for the Senate in the 1998 Parliamentary Federal Island Elections and hosted “The People’s Voice” radio talk show for 15 years, alongside co-hosting the TV culinary program “Best Bites of the Caribbean” for four years. She taught at the St. Maarten Culinary School and later opened the award-winning “Los Gauchos” Fine Dining Argentinian Restaurant and The Bistro International Grill, which she operated for eight years before moving to Dubai in 2009. In Dubai, Liesa continues to serve as a Rotarian in the Rotary Club Jumeirah, where she has been a member and Paul Harris Fellow for 30 years, including 23 years on the Board. She has held various roles, including International Relations Director and Campaign Strategist for the UAE Athletics Federation, and co-founded the Dubai Women’s Run from 2010 to 2018. As a keynote speaker and moderator at events and conferences, Liesa is dedicated to mentoring clients to transform their lives by shifting their mindsets and empowering women in financial technology, with a strong belief in the importance of financial independence for all women.
This article will explore Liesa’s vision, accomplishments, inspirations, and future projects.
How did you ended up as a the Director of EHP International (MENA)
Fate and destiny are how the CEO of EHP International Raj Sajnani and I connected. We owe that to his daughter beauty mogul Natasha Moor of Natasha Moor Cosmetics. She was at my home for dinner several years ago and mentioned that her dad and I did the same thing, and we should connect as he wants to get into the Middle East market. The rest is history, I am not one for business partners, but we met, and it has been a very symbiotic business relationship, since then we have also spread into the African and Caribbean Regions, I spend my time as director of the MENA region for EHP International Ltd.
Can you tell us what EHP does and some of the companies that work with EHP International Ltd.?
Sure, we design, develop, and deliver practical, engaging, and skill-enhancing masterclasses that help staff enhance their potential in Sales, Sales Management, Leadership, Excellence in Customer Service, and personal development areas to differentiate themselves from competitors and remain leaders in their Industries.
We have International clients in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean Region who keep returning and recommending customers to us. I’ll mention a few: Hallmark, Swarovski, Bloomberg, Reuters, Cathay Pacific, DFS, Citibank, Credit Suisse Private Banking, HK Trade Development Council, African+Eastern, Yas Plaza Hotels, Expressions Perfumees, Warner-Lambert, Johnson& Johnson, Sephora, (Parke Davis), Motorola University, Apple Computers, Wing Hang Bank, Dao Heng Bank, Beauford Ipsen, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Nestle Hong Kong, RGA Reinsurance, Siemens Ltd, Cigna Insurance, Jardine Davies (Philippines), SwissRe, Holiday Inn Golden Mile, as well as the Novotel Century, Le Meridien Cyberport hotels and HSBC Private Banking, MGF Sourcing, The Leela Mumbai, Fairmont Jaipur, Harley Davidson, Six Senses Resorts in Thailand, Vietnam & Maldives / Galaxy Entertainment Group / City of Dreams in Macau, Fairmont India, and Radisson Hong Kong. Grandcase Beach Club, Winair, Mandarin Oriental, AquaMania Adventures, SHTA members, Le Club du Tourisme, and SMTA members.
What are the main factors that guided you to where you are now?
That is a big open-ended question, to sum it up there are many factors that guide you in life. My education shaped my knowledge, skills, and the direction of my career. I went to a disciplined catholic all-girls school in NY and my university was extremely competitive and predominantly Jewish, so I learned what you call “chutzpah” which is Yiddish for extreme self-confidence. My relationships with my family, friends, and mentors have provided support and guidance. My personalexperiences, including successes and failures, have played a critical role in my growth. We are here as souls living a physical life and here to have experiences and learn from them good or bad. I always set goals annually and pursue them which provides motivation and focus for me, my core beliefs and values have guided my choices and shaped my worldview. I come from a Caribbean background but was born and raised in New York. Cultural and background plays a significant role, and geographic location can greatly influence life’s path. Chance encounters, job offers, and serendipitous events lead to new directions in life. So, I have 3 volumes of “My Book of Life” New York, St. Maarten, and Dubai, there could be a 4th who knows I am open to what life brings me.
Given your 30+ years of experience and accomplishments, what would you say was your biggest achievement?
Wow, the most challenging but most rewarding for me was opening The Safe Haven Foundation in 1998. Safe Haven is a non-profit foundation located on the island of St. Maarten, that offers support and assistance for women going through domestic abuse. Safe Haven is a confidential, non-profit organization that offers free shelter, counseling, and supportive services to women and their minor-aged children. I was appointed by the then Lt, Governor to be President and get the Foundation started. I remember him calling me to his office and I said why I was so busy with other Boards and the Hotel. He replied that your background in psychology is needed, and you specialize in domestic violence. Yes, you are busy so I know you will get it done. You always follow through. I started from scratch with butterflies in my stomach. The outpour of support from the community was outstanding. Many serendipitous moments occurred to get the house furnished, appliances, food supplies, a director, teacher, staff volunteers for the hotline, and security all came together. My heart and soul felt so joyous. There is so much to the story how it all came together but ill leave it to Volume 2 of my book.
What is the quote that inspires you the most?
“To whom much is given, much is required”. If you have heard this before, you know it means we are held responsible for what we have. If we have been blessed with talents, wealth, knowledge, time, and the like, it is expected that we benefit others and give back.
What distinguishes EHP International from other organizations in your field?
Maintaining high client loyalty is important for us and it has a multifaceted approach that requires consistent effort and attention. Here are some strategies: we have a great Team with exceptional customer service, and we build relationships with our clients, we make sure we have quality products and services, and we always after each session with our clients solicit feedback. What sets us apart is consistent communication with our clients. We exceed expectations by going the extra mile. We provide our clients with educational resources, insights, tips, and related to our training programs that can add value. By combining these strategies, EHP creates an environment where client loyalty flourishes.
What personality traits contributed to you being a successful Director?
Honesty and trust, the ability to mentor staff and provide growth and development resources like EHP International, the ability to motivate, a high EQ (emotional intelligence), the willingness to deliver open and honest feedback, and the ability to inspire self-awareness and compassion.
In light of your journey and experiences, what message would you like to convey to aspiring youth in the same field?
This is for any youth. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Find a mentor in the same field you are in. Listen to people and take advice, what they see as your trajectory and the path you choose do not have to be the same as theirs. Be positive. See the potential for good outcomes, while still being aware of the risks. Focus on the prize – if you fail, course correct, learn, and move on.”
What is your personal team leadership philosophy, and how does it shape your work environment?
I believe in leading by example and fostering open communication. Whether it was the boards of directors I sat on, being a general manager of the hotel, or my restaurants, I prioritize building relationships with my team based on trust, respect, and transparency. I actively listen to their concerns and feedback, provide regular recognition and feedback, and offer opportunities for growth and development. Open respectful collaboration can solve any problem. A well-defined personal leadership philosophy fosters trust, communication, and alignment within your team. It is a foundation for effective leadership and positively impacts your team.
What is the most valuable lesson learned from your professional journey?
Patience and persistence are important qualities for success in life. Whether it’s in our personal or professional lives, it’s important to have the patience to persevere through challenges and the persistence to keep working towards our goals, even when things get tough.
How do you manage and prioritize your time between networking activities and other leadership responsibilities?
The key for me is to be as detailed and thorough as possible. I would be lost without my agenda and a daily to-do list! I keep an agenda because I need to physically write out tasks I need to do and prioritize them based on importance and urgency. I then break down each task into subtasks and estimate how long it will take to complete each. I make sure I set time for everything, including the gym, emails, calls, etc. I also allow driving time between meetings. I know it’s a bit obsessive, but it keeps me on track especially when I have a lot going on both day and evening. It’s like a catharsis for me when I can cross the items off the list.
What future developments do you anticipate in the realm of networking and organizational visibility?
Well, I like to call it Networking for Influence and Visibility, this is becoming more and more common. Whether you are remote or in person, this is about building stronger relationships with influential people who can help you in your career. It is important to have a strategy to build your network with the right people, a system to consistently be more visible each week and to learn how to talk about yourself and the value that you bring is important. No one can speak about you better than yourself.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?
While I love all the regions we work with, I am particularly excited and filled with anticipation of EHP’s growth in the Caribbean Region, it’s home for me and I enjoy training in the Caribbean region. Tourism is our main economy. In the hospitality industry, customer service is paramount, and soft skills training is essential for improving service quality, fostering a positive work environment, and enhancing overall business success. In closing, any company that invests in soft skills training is committed to quality service and employee development, enhancing its reputation and competitiveness in the market.
– In a study commissioned by Eaton, more than 120 decision makers in the UAE and KSA in the utility, data center, building and manufacturing segments were asked about the ways new technologies like AI are affecting the continuity of their digitalization efforts
DUBAI – Fewer companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) believe that legacy technology poses a barrier to digitalization at this time compared to 2022, according to a new study commissioned by Eaton, a global leader in intelligent power management. Companies are currently reaping the benefits associated with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to advance their digitalization efforts.
Eaton commissioned S&P Global Market Intelligence to survey digital transformation leaders from the data center, utilities, buildings and manufacturing sectors in the Middle East and other global markets. The findings of the study, detailed in the second Eaton Brightlayer® research report, show that digitalization strategies are being developed quickly in these sectors.
Fewer than one-in-four companies (23%) surveyed said that legacy technology poses a barrier to digitalization compared with one-in-three (33%) who were asked the same question in 2022. Newly emerging AI and ML applications, which show huge potential to transform businesses, are credited with this 10% shift in sentiment over a period of less than 24 months.
Qasem Noureddin, Managing Director at Eaton Middle East, said: “Businesses in the UAE and KSA are accelerating their efforts towards digital transformation. This report emphasizes the pivotal role of digital technologies in driving business objectives and shows how urgently businesses want to implement technologies that incorporate AI and ML. It shows that demand for data centers has increased, driven by artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. Other B2B sectors in the UAE and KSA like manufacturing, utilities, and building/facilities management continue to advance their digitalization efforts to achieve their digital transformation and sustainability goals, aligning with national objectives.”
Top findings in each sector are as follows:
Data centers are scaling up to meet growing demand and are focusing on facility upgrades (42.3%); expanding capacity (38.6%); and improving IT asset performance utilization (32.8%).
Utilities are under pressure because while 55% point to outdated infrastructure as their biggest problem, they expect grid capacity requirements to rise significantly over the next 10 years, with 40% predicting extra capacity requirements of up to 49%.
Manufacturers believe AI could facilitate decarbonization and boost their environmental, sustainability and governance (ESG) scores (66%), as well as improve electrical energy monitoring and optimization (55%) and enhance digital twin (68%) and predictive maintenance applications (64%).
Building operators are focusing on digital transformation to help them achieve sustainability targets (upwards of 46%), with most large building owners (54%) planning to install building management systems within the next year to help them optimize energy use, and many seeing AI as a future tool to help them predict space utilization (66%).
Eaton’s Brightlayer software makes it easier for businesses to embrace digitalization and drive operational value by leveraging intelligent, actionable insights from their data. Brightlayer combines Eaton’s deep domain knowledge with AI, ML and big data processing to support efficient real-time decision-making to optimize power management.
Orient Insurance, a division of Al-Futtaim, today has announced its launch in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The launch was marked by the official inauguration of Orient Insurance offices in Al Ghadir in Riyadh.
Turki Alshahrani, CEO of Orient KSA, will lead the local organisation consisting of executives from underwriting, business development, finance, and other key areas. Speaking about this pivotal move, he stated: “The expansion into Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone for Orient Insurance that commenced operations in 1982, demonstrating its commitment to serving the evolving insurance needs of a fast-growing market while reinforcing its position as a market leader in the regional insurance ecosystem.”
Equipped with an A+ rating from S&P and a+ from AM Best – the highest financial strength rating of any insurer in the region, Orient Insurance will offer individuals, corporations, and government entities access to innovative general, life, medical, and motor insurance and reinsurance solutions.
“Strategic economic diversification efforts, numerous megaprojects, and billion-dollar investment opportunities are making Saudi Arabia a magnet for global investors and talent. With its fast-growing population and robust demand, the Kingdom represents a significant opportunity for growth,” said Omer Elamin, President of Orient Insurance. “Orient’s expansion into the Kingdom is a strategic move that will not only strengthen business and portfolio resilience by diversifying our geographical footprint, but it will also allow us to leverage decades of expertise in delivering customer-centric insurance solutions to meet the diverse and evolving needs of Saudi Arabia.”
“Orient’s scale and breadth of coverage allow us to tailor insurance solutions to customer needs and deploy at an expanded capacity, which will ultimately enhance and advance the insurance landscape in the Kingdom,” Elamin added.
The insurance sector in the Kingdom has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with its gross written premium (GWP) up 22.7% in 2023 and reaching SR65.5bn (USD$17.5bn). Robust economic activity, rising health insurance coverage – including mandatory coverage for residents employed by the private sector – and increasing vehicle sales, up by 23% in 2023, contribute to high demand in Saudi’s dynamic insurance landscape.
Orient enters Saudi Arabia amid significant transformation in the industry. The Insurance Authority (IA) is driving greater stability and transparency in the market by consolidating regulatory functions and streamlining and standardising industry practices to better serve the Kingdom’s growing population.
‘Kingdom Lenscape’, Snapchat’s augmented reality (AR) campaign in celebration of Saudi National Day 2024, proved to be a huge hit in the Kingdom, achieving a total reach of more than 10 million, over 64 million impressions and 12.8 seconds’ average camera playtime.
The ‘Kingdom Lenscape’ campaign featured two pillars; FAKHAR, focused on celebrating national pride, and KARAM, highlighting the culture of gifting and shopping. A number of prominent brands got involved, including Ounass, Huda Beauty, NiceOne, Shahid, Spotify, Alwazn Almithaly, Zyros, Saudi Investment Bank, Laverne and Alwaleed Philanthropies.
During the ten-day campaign Saudi Snapchatters enjoyed the chance to explore virtual landscapes that celebrated brands’ contributions to the Kingdom’s progress, with the immersive, interactive journey culminating in a special genAI-inspired lens that allowed users to envision themselves in the future of each brand. Snap’s marketplace was also transformed into a festive digital extravaganza filled with exclusive offers and limited-edition products, enabling users to immerse themselves in the celebration.
Nine out of 10 Saudi National Day campaigns using AR saw statistically significant brand lift results, with the average lift recorded on ad awareness four per cent, a full four times higher than benchmark. Average lift recorded on brand favorability was two per cent, double the benchmark, with lift recorded on action intent also double the benchmark at two per cent.
“We’re thrilled to share the success of our ‘Kingdom’s Lenscape’ campaign, which underscores the central role we play in enabling the Saudi society to stay connected during cultural moments” said Abdulla Alhammadi, Managing Director – KSA at Snap Inc. “The campaign was more than just a digital activation; it was an opportunity for Saudi Snapchatters to mark their National Day by honoring the country’s celebratory tradition of gifting and generosity. By leveraging the transformative power of AR, the campaign brought Saudi Arabia’s stories to life, offering brands an exceptional opportunity to engage with Snapchatters in a way that was both authentic and meaningful.”
Roll-out of the campaign came hot on the heels of the opening of Snap Inc.’s office in the Diriyah district of Riyadh, and the establishment of Majlis Snap for Creators in Saudi Arabia, marking the expansion of its presence in the Kingdom. The opening underscored the company’s commitment to deepening engagement with its immense user base in Saudi, supporting the thriving community of creators whilst simultaneously driving impact for partners and clients.
With 25 million active monthly users, Snapchat is deeply embedded in the Kingdom’s social fabric. As the Kingdom’s most popular social connectivity app and go-to platform for sharing moments of celebration, Snapchat continues to find new ways to remain at the heart of these cultural milestones.
Abdulhadi AlAsmi is a tech enthusiast and visionary entrepreneur, passionate about creating connections through innovation. His entrepreneurial journey began in 2012 while he was still in college, with the launch of his first startup, iBrella. The app allowed users to send photos or messages to themselves or others, with delivery set for a future date, enabling them to capture memories over time. Building on the lessons learned from iBrella, Abdulhadi went on to create Matien, a grocery delivery app launched in 2015/16, aimed at solving everyday challenges through technology. These ventures have played a key role in shaping his entrepreneurial vision, ultimately leading to the creation of Mush Social—a platform dedicated to fostering local connections and strengthening communities.
In this article, we will discover Abdulhadi’s journey from his early startups to the creation of Mush Social, his insights on innovation, and the principles that drive his success.
What are the main factors that guided you to where you are now? Key factors include persistence, a vision for innovation, and an understanding of the gaps in social networking. Building a team that shares this commitment has been crucial to moving Mush Social forward.
Given your years of experience and accomplishments, what would you say was your biggest achievement? My biggest achievement has been building a social media platform from the ground up, growing it to over 150,000 users, and inspiring my team to commit to our shared vision. Starting from scratch, we’ve developed advanced features that push user experience boundaries, and we are continuously improving. Building a platform like this is a unique challenge that requires both technical skill and an understanding of evolving user needs.
What is the quote that inspires you the most? The quote that inspires me most comes from Amara’s Law: “We tend to overestimate the effect of a technology in the short run and underestimate the effect in the long run.” It reminds me to stay patient and persistent, recognizing that true impact often unfolds over time.
Can you name two books that inspired you? And what did you take out of them? I read a lot, so it’s hard to choose just two, but if I had to pick, I’d say The Man Who Solved the Market, which explores Jim Simons’ legendary journey, and Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull, which offers valuable insights on fostering creativity within organizations. Jim Simons had an advanced vision and a deep belief in his ability to achieve it, which he ultimately did. Creativity, Inc. taught me the importance of challenging conventional thinking and pushing beyond what we were used to. From these, I learned the significance of visionary thinking and the need to constantly challenge the status quo to drive innovation.
What personality traits contributed to you being a successful CEO? Being honest and transparent with our employees, letting them know that a ‘breakthrough’ may not be near, but we must keep the faith, has been essential. We’ve also been transparent with our users about our mistakes, acknowledging that they are errors we couldn’t measure, but we recognize their impact. With potential investors, we present the data as it is—never faking numbers or trends. Yes, we missed some great opportunities with incubation programs and lost some competition prizes because our numbers weren’t big enough. However, the good news is that honesty is a solid foundation. It strengthens your future because you don’t have to carry the burden of deception.
Are there any significant challenges facing companies going through digital transformation today? Can you name the most relevant ones? Yes, there are several significant challenges companies face during digital transformation. One of the biggest challenges is resistance to change, as users and employees are often accustomed to traditional ways of doing things and may be reluctant to adopt new technologies. Additionally, integrating new technologies with existing systems can be complex and costly. Companies also face data security and privacy concerns as they move more processes online.
In light of your journey and experiences, what message would you like to convey to aspiring entrepreneurs? Stay focused on your goal and don’t stray from your bigger vision. There will be many distractions and temptations that may lead you off course, but it’s crucial to remain committed to your ultimate objective. Resilience and adaptability are key, as challenges will always arise, but staying true to your purpose will help you navigate through them.
What is your personal team leadership philosophy? My leadership philosophy is centered around giving every team member the support and trust they need to feel that they are just as important and valuable as anyone else in the team, including the founders. When everyone feels empowered and recognized, it fosters a sense of ownership and collaboration that drives success.
What is the most valuable lesson learned from your professional journey? One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my journey is that a ‘yes’ from an entity or investor doesn’t truly count until the deal is signed. Early on, I had situations where verbal agreements seemed promising, but until everything was formalized, nothing was guaranteed.
Tell us more about what distinguishes Mush Social from other similar services? Mush Social stands out because of its unique combination of features like the map and Reach. The map allows users to connect with others in their local area and even own virtual assets, enhancing their presence within the community. Reach enables seamless communication across language barriers, allowing users to interact naturally as the platform automatically adapts to different languages. These features create a personalized, inclusive experience that fosters real-time connections, helping users engage more meaningfully within their local communities and beyond.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about, and how do they align with Mush Social’s goals? We’re in advanced discussions with a telecommunications startup for a full or partial acquisition, which would give us access to cutting-edge telecom technology and expand our capabilities. We also plan to bring in experts across critical areas to help us scale faster and strengthen our expertise. These steps will set the foundation for our next growth phase and keep us competitive in the industry.
Finally, I encourage anyone reading this interview who’s interested in investing in the next big thing to reach out and meet with me. I’m confident that once you see what we’re building, you’ll be convinced. Together, we’ll change the world and create significant value, as we’re the new entrants poised to disrupt the market and redefine the future.
To conclude, as Abdulhadi continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship, his story serves as an inspiration for future innovators and entrepreneurs who seek to use technology to solve real-world problems. With his eyes set on the future and a clear mission to foster stronger communities, Abdulhadi’s work reminds us that at the heart of every successful venture lies a deep understanding of people’s needs and the willingness to challenge the status quo.
As Mush Social grows and evolves, it will undoubtedly continue to redefine how we connect, communicate, and collaborate in the digital age. Abdulhadi’s journey is far from over, and it will be exciting to see the impact he and his team will make in the years to come.
Byron Cooke’s love for music and entertainment began in his early years, thanks to his mother, Robin, who ran a ballet school and was a talented dancer and all-around entertainer. Though Byron didn’t inherit his mother’s flair for dancing, he found his own passion for communication. From a young age, he would create pretend radio shows on cassette tapes, and throughout high school and university, his ability to confidently speak in front of others became one of his strongest skills. Despite graduating with a business degree, Byron quickly realized that the traditional “desk job” wasn’t for him. Choosing instead to follow his passion, he enrolled in a television and radio presentation course, which ultimately led him to his first break at a small radio station in a country town a few hours west of Sydney, Australia. From there, his career in broadcasting continued to flourish.
In this article, we will explore Byron’s journey to becoming a leading radio personality, his key career milestones, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the driving philosophy that keeps him at the top of his game.
What are the main factors that guided you to where you are now?
Firstly, following my passion. Taking the road that excites me and never playing it safe. It doesn’t guarantee success every time, but I can honestly say my life has never been boring!
The second aspect for me is believing in myself as a top-tier radio talent. I don’t pretend to be brilliant at everything in life, but I’ve always backed myself as being an engaging and entertaining communicator. As the host/anchor of commercial radio shows around the world, I’ve never felt second-best to anyone in my industry. I know I’m good at what I do. That deep belief in myself shelters me from any negativity I may have faced along the journey. It doesn’t mean I can’t continually improve and be guided by great leaders — but I never question my ability.
Given your many years of experience and accomplishments, what would you say was your biggest achievement?
Hosting big live radio shows over the years has afforded me the privilege of lifting the spirits of the communities I serve. For me, that overrides any particular ratings achievement or industry award.
To this day, just a random live call into MBC Loud or a DM on our socials saying “you and Sana K make my morning” or “you guys get me through the day and make me feel good” is the ongoing accomplishment that I strive for.
I’m also very proud to have worked alongside some amazing charities, particularly in the years running my independently produced podcast in Australia.
And if I was to point to one industry acknowledgment, winning the International Radio Personality Of The Year at the Worldwide Radio Summit in Los Angeles was definitely a proud moment.
What is the quote that inspires you the most?
My late mother (who to this day is my hero in life) always said to me “Reach for the stars.”
Simple and powerful. As humans, there is a temptation to not try things for fear of failure. Anytime I’ve felt that self-doubt, those four words from my beautiful Mum just ring in my head.
What qualities do you look for when hiring new team members?
Personally, I like to ask the question to anyone looking at a career in entertainment — Why do you want to do this? If their answer centers around the service of others or a deep and genuine passion to entertain people … that’s an excellent start.
If the motivation is driven by things like “I wanna be famous” or “being on the guest list at cool events,” I’ll admit to losing interest pretty quickly.
What differentiates “The Byron Cooke Show with Sana K” from other similar shows?
In Saudi Arabia, our point of difference is there actually aren’t any similar shows!
We are a live, listener-driven breakfast show on the first English-speaking radio network in the country’s history. On top of that, Sana K and I enjoy something that I know is incredibly hard for any future competitors to manufacture — and that’s our on-air chemistry as presenters. It’s actually quite scary how connected we are as people.
Through our chemistry, we are building a deeper connection to our community with every show. They love engaging with us both. The audience is growing. We deliver consistently every weekday morning. We have the backing (and proudly carry the brand name) of a national media institution in MBC GROUP. We are led by proven industry winners in the region, in the form of our head of content for MBC LOUD, Alex Agishev, and Ziad Hamza, the Group Director of Audio Music and Radio at MBC GROUP, whom we thank for his trust and continuous support.
What interesting trends have you spotted in the Media and Entertainment industry?
In this world of rapid technological change and digital disruption, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the resilience of good old-fashioned “radio” over the past decade or so.
While I’ll admit I’m quite close to this trend, what we do every day as radio broadcasters is still sitting really nicely in the new order of things.
It’s obviously about so much more than the terrestrial FM signal now. Thankfully, the continued growth of streaming and on-demand podcasting are really nicely in alignment with radio shows like the one we present across Saudi Arabia on MBC LOUD.
Platforms and technologies will continue to evolve, but locally relevant, engaging live audio content is going to always find an audience. People will always want to connect with trusted local sources of information and entertainment. At the end of the day, it’s still about human interaction.
What advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs or advocates looking to make a difference in their communities?
It’s been said before but I’ll say it again — JUST START! Nothing is ever going to be perfect. Make it up as you go if you have to. Start with basic foundations … and then build!
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your work with MBC?
Making the move to Saudi Arabia with the backing of the region’s biggest and leading media player has been a life-changing experience. There are constant reminders of MBC’s standing in Arab pop culture. Quite often in the morning, my taxi driver will literally get out of the car and take a picture of our MBC HQ! It’s considered a flex to even drive into our precinct.
The reward of all this is I’m able to do what I love while embracing and learning about an entirely new culture. Along the way, doors open for me as a result of my association with MBC GROUP.
What is the most valuable lesson learned from your professional journey?
I’ve learned to stay focused on the WHY. Why do I do what I do? What value am I bringing to the people I serve?
There is an element of ego in what we do as media personalities (and there is nothing wrong with being confident), but it’s not “all about you.”
Also, now being in my fourth country as a radio host, I’ve learned that people are essentially the same wherever you go. Respect the cultural differences, of course, but understand that the need to be uplifted and feel a connection to community is universal. The principles don’t change.
What strategies do you use to maintain strong relationships in your field?
In an industry that can be very competitive (and frankly quite cut-throat), I’m a firm believer in supporting my peers and also doing my part to nurture new talent.
I make a genuine effort to celebrate the wins of others. Sometimes these are people who are doing something quite similar to what I’m doing.
Someone else’s success doesn’t come at the cost of my own. In my opinion, it’s not about “your piece of the pie.” The pie can just get bigger. We can all eat!
Are there any new projects or initiatives on the horizon?
My primary focus is the continued growth of “The Byron Cooke Show with Sana K on MBC LOUD” across all platforms.
We work with the biggest media group in the MENA region, so content opportunities will certainly emerge across other MBC brands as we build the radio show. Watch this space!
The Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC) hosted its exclusive Forum and Award Ceremony at the prestigious Fairmont Hotel Riyadh, bringing together key stakeholders, government officials, and industry leaders for a day of dynamic dialogue, innovative workshops, and strategic networking aimed at advancing the sustainability and resilience of Saudi Arabia’s water sector.
The Forum served as a pivotal platform for discussing advancements in water management and sustainability and exploring opportunities for collaboration across the public and private sectors.Attendees engaged in discussions covering topics including water sustainability, government collaboration, and PPP legislation. These sessions provided actionable insights and set the stage for future partnerships that will shape the water sector in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region.
Eng. Khaled AlQureshi, CEO of SWPC, reflected on the day’s accomplishments and said,“The SWPC Forum and Award Ceremony is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. By bringing together key players from across the water sector, we are building a stronger foundation for sustainable water management and aligning with the Kingdom’s strategic goals for the future.”
The workshops provided participants with in-depth insights into key topics such as optimizing tendering processes, building robust water infrastructure, financing water projects, and exploring long-term off-take partnerships. Industry experts shared case studies and best practices, fostering knowledge exchange and equipping participants with actionable strategies to address complex challenges in water management.
Panel discussions delved into the nuances of stakeholder engagement, sustainable development, and the integration of advanced technologies. The exhibition area showcased cutting-edge innovations and solutions, giving attendees a firsthand look at advancements shaping the water sector. These elements collectively positioned the Forum as a pivotal event for driving innovation, sustainability, and strategic collaboration.
The Forum concluded with the prestigious SWPC Awards Ceremony, inaugurated by H.E. Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture. The ceremony celebrated excellence in water management, with awards recognizing innovation, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships. Notable winners included projects in desalination, sewage treatment, and strategic water storage, all of which underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to water sustainability and infrastructure development. The awards served as a platform to honor innovation, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships that are advancing the Kingdom’s water sustainability initiatives.
The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Acwa Power as the Headline Sponsor. Diamond Sponsors include Aljomaih Energy & Water, Alkhorayef Water & Power Technology and Cobra. TAQA, as the Platinum Sponsor, further underscored the importance of sustainable partnerships in driving progress within the industry.
The positive response to the event reflects SWPC’s dedication to fostering partnerships and driving excellence in the water sector, creating a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration that will influence the industry for years to come.
Partnership, which will see Foodics bolster entrepreneurs in the popular TV show, strengthens the presence of Saudi startups both regionally and globally
‘This partnership stems from our commitment to empower innovative entrepreneurs in the restaurant sector and our dedication to contribute positively to the communities where Foodics operates’ – Ahmad Al-Zaini, co-founder & CEO, Foodics
Foodics, a leading restaurant management and fintech solutions provider, has announced its collaboration as the official technology partner for the renowned TV show Million Pound Menu.
The program, dedicated to food entrepreneurs, allows participants to pitch their concepts to prominent investors in hopes of securing funding. Million Pound Menu will soon air for the first time in the Middle East on MBC Egypt and the Shahid streaming platform.
Through this sponsorship, Foodics will empower participating entrepreneurs with advanced technological solutions to manage their businesses efficiently. This includes providing access to its restaurant management solutions (RMS), offering comprehensive solutions for order management, inventory control, and sales tracking, helping them improve order accuracy and minimize errors during the investor trials.
Ahmad Al-Zaini, Co-founder and CEO of Foodics, said: “This partnership stems from our commitment to empower innovative entrepreneurs in the restaurant sector and our dedication to contribute positively to the communities where Foodics operates. Using Foodics’ advanced systems ensures that participants will be able to manage their businesses with ease and flexibility, while our collaboration also strengthens the position of Saudi companies, especially startups, and their presence on a regional and global scale.”
Ahmad Luxor, Co-founder and CEO of Innovative Media Production (IMP), the production company behind Million Pound Menu, said: “This partnership aligns with our vision of supporting the restaurant sector in the region through dynamic, forward-thinking initiatives. Contestants will receive training on Foodics’ systems, enabling them to improve operational efficiency, reduce errors, increase productivity, enhance customer experience, and attract further investment.”
Foodics recently secured $170 million in a funding round backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) through Sanabil Investments, demonstrating investor confidence in Foodics’ leadership and its ambition to be a Saudi-born global powerhouse.
