INJAZ UAE Celebrates 20 Years of Youth Empowerment with New Board Leadership and a Bold Vision for 2028

Board appointments signal a fresh commitment to bridging education and industry, with bold goals set for national and regional youth development

Dubai, UAE. October 14, 2025 – INJAZ UAE, a member of Junior Achievement Worldwide and a leading non-profit organization dedicated to youth empowerment, today announced the appointment of Faisal Juma Khalfan Belhoul as its new Chairperson of the Board. The announcement comes at a milestone moment for the organization, which has spent the last two decades connecting classrooms with boardrooms and preparing youth for the realities of the modern workforce.

The new board brings together senior leaders from across the private sector, including Mohamed Bahaa (APCO Worldwide), Ahmed Abdelaal (Mashreq), Mohammed Alamin (ExxonMobil), Khaled Hashem (Honeywell), Renée McGowan (Marsh McLennan), Izabella Szadkowska (Al Tamimi), and Fakher Bader (Shell Group of Companies – Iraq & UAE). Their collective expertise reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the bridge between education and industry.

“It’s a privilege to take on this role at such a defining moment,” said Belhoul. “As we celebrate 20 years of impact, we’re not just looking back — we’re looking ahead to a future shaped by innovation, entrepreneurship, and meaningful partnerships that unlock opportunities for youth across the UAE and the region.”

Since its founding in 2005, INJAZ UAE has reached over 100,000 youth, engaged more than 4,000 volunteers, and partnered with 60+ companies to deliver hands-on programs in work readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. These programs — offered free of charge — equip youth aged 11-24 with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a global economy.

Looking ahead, INJAZ UAE aims to reach 300 students annually in the UAE by 2028, contributing to INJAZ Al Arab’s regional goal of impacting 3 million youth. Strategic partners like APCO are helping drive this vision forward, supporting youth development through mentorship, training, and advocacy.

“This new chapter is about building on what we’ve achieved and pushing further,” said Razan Bashiti, CEO of INJAZ UAE. “With Faisal’s leadership and the strength of our board and partners, we’re ready to scale our impact and empower the next generation of changemakers.”

“Serving as Chairperson of INJAZ UAE over the past five years has been a deeply rewarding experience,” said Elissar Farah Antonios, outgoing Chairperson. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of connecting youth with real-world skills and mentors. I’m proud of what we’ve built together and confident that under Faisal’s leadership, INJAZ UAE will continue to grow its impact and inspire the next generation of changemakers.”

As INJAZ UAE enters its third decade, it continues to serve as a vital link between the business community, educators, and volunteers — delivering experiential learning that prepares youth for the future of work. The organization remains focused on its mission to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy.