The event will gather senior officials, experts, and young talents from various sectors to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration. As part of Dubai’s commitment to sustainable development, the forum will spotlight innovative initiatives and programmes aimed at strengthening youth capabilities and driving them to take an active role in the city’s growth.

Hassan Sabt, Chairman of the Dubai Youth Council, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “The Dubai Youth Forum is a vital platform to empower young people and foster their collaboration with decision-makers across public and private sectors. Our goal is to help them achieve their true potential and prepare them to lead in diverse fields.”

The forum will also feature the unveiling of several programmes aimed at supporting and inspiring the youth of Dubai, reinforcing their role in contributing to the emirate’s strategic goals. The initiatives, developed in partnership with key organizations, will cover a wide range of sectors, from innovation to sustainability, allowing the younger generation to make meaningful contributions toward the city’s future.

In alignment with Dubai’s broader vision, the forum seeks to place youth at the heart of the region’s progress. The gathering will provide young individuals with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with influential leaders, exchange ideas, and explore pathways that resonate with their aspirations, ultimately equipping them to lead with impact.

By fostering an environment of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the Dubai Youth Forum represents a vital step toward ensuring the emirate’s youth are well-positioned to shape the future of Dubai and beyond.

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The ceremony will honour winners from nations including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Turkiye, Jordan, Oman, Tunisia, Iran, Lebanon, and Algeria. Tickets for the event are available through the official website at www.StevieAwards.com.

Stevie Awards President Maggie Miller praised the quality of nominations this year, saying, “The quality of nominations received this year was exceptional. The programme has grown every year, showing the vast amount of innovation in the MENA region.”

This year’s competition saw over 1,100 nominations submitted in both Arabic and English. A panel of 118 judges from around the world evaluated the entries, selecting winners based on their contributions to various categories, including innovation in apps, customer service, sustainability, technology, public relations, human resources, and more.

Among the distinguished winners are notable organizations such as Abu Dhabi Customs, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority, Saudi Arabia’s Insan Charitable Society for the Care of Orphans and Their Mothers, and DHL Express. Other awardees include Ebebek Magazacilik A.S from Turkiye, ZIRA Arabia and The Fashion Commission from Saudi Arabia, and Mobile Communications Company of Iran (MCI).

The Stevie Awards celebrate achievements across a range of sectors, with categories recognizing innovation, management, leadership, and excellence in services and technologies. This prestigious event highlights the continued growth and development within the MENA region, showcasing the region’s rising influence on the global stage.

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Born in Tumkur district, Karnataka, Arya moved to Canada after completing his MBA in Dharwad. His journey reflects the experiences of many immigrants who have made significant contributions to Canadian society. Arya has served as a Member of Parliament, and his announcement to run for Prime Minister marks a new chapter in his political career, focusing on Canada’s future and addressing critical issues facing the nation.

In a post shared on X, Arya outlined his vision for Canada’s future, emphasizing the need for bold decisions to ensure prosperity for future generations. “I am running to be the next Prime Minister of Canada to lead a smaller, more efficient government, rebuild our nation, and secure prosperity for future generations,” Arya stated. His candidacy comes at a time when Canada faces significant challenges, including rising costs of living and a struggling middle class.

Arya’s platform is built on the idea of making Canada “a sovereign republic,” an aspiration he believes will require transformative political decisions. He has been vocal about his stance on national issues, including speaking out against Khalistan supporters who have celebrated the assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and condemning the defacing of Hindu temples in Canada. Arya’s strong advocacy for India and his commitment to promoting bilateral relations between Canada and India have made him a key figure within both the Indian and Canadian diasporas.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has praised Arya as a “genuine advocate for India,” highlighting his commitment to strengthening the ties between the two nations. Arya, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi in August 2024, also emphasizes the importance of India as a growing market for Canadian exports and a source of critical talent for the Canadian economy.

Canada’s current Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced earlier this month that he would step down but remain in office until a new leader is chosen. Arya’s entry into the race has added a new dynamic to the leadership contest within the Liberal Party, with the country’s future direction at stake.

In his campaign, Arya acknowledged the difficult challenges facing Canada, particularly the affordability crisis affecting younger generations and the struggling middle class. He said, “Many Canadians, especially younger generations, face significant affordability issues. The working middle class is struggling today, and many working families are retiring directly into poverty.”

Arya emphasized the need for a leader who is unafraid to make difficult decisions. “Canada deserves leadership that isn’t afraid to make big decisions—decisions that rebuild our economy, restore hope, create equal opportunities for all Canadians, and secure prosperity for our children and grandchildren,” Arya declared.

His bold vision reflects his belief that Canada must address its “perfect storm” of structural problems with pragmatic and prudent leadership. Arya has pledged to offer his knowledge and expertise to rebuild Canada’s economy, restore hope, and secure a better future for all Canadians.

As the race for the next Prime Minister of Canada heats up, Chandra Arya’s candidacy brings a fresh and bold perspective to the political landscape. With a platform focused on revitalizing the nation and strengthening Canada’s international ties, Arya aims to position himself as a leader who can tackle the nation’s most pressing issues head-on.

Canada now faces a critical juncture in its political future, and with Arya stepping forward, the country will soon choose a leader who will shape its direction for years to come.

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Dr. Singh, who served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was hailed for his transformative role in India’s economic liberalization. He is widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reforms in the early 1990s, which helped the country navigate an economic crisis and opened it to the global market. His leadership during the 2008 global financial crisis and his consistent pursuit of inclusive growth remain a testament to his foresight and dedication to India’s progress.

Global Diplomats Express Their Admiration

Diplomats from several nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, and others, expressed deep sadness at the passing of Dr. Singh, while also celebrating his lasting impact on international relations and global diplomacy.

U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, described Dr. Singh as “one of the most influential leaders of his generation.” He praised Dr. Singh’s role in fostering U.S.-India relations and his work to build bridges between the two countries in trade, defense, and shared democratic values. “Dr. Singh’s intellectual leadership and calm diplomacy will never be forgotten,” Garcetti said.

British High Commissioner Alex Ellis also offered his condolences, recalling the strong partnership between India and the United Kingdom during Dr. Singh’s tenure. “Dr. Singh’s legacy is not just in India but in the broader world as well,” Ellis remarked. “He was a man of great integrity, intellect, and warmth.”

Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov described Dr. Singh as a “visionary” who played a crucial role in strengthening the strategic ties between India and Russia. He remembered Dr. Singh’s role in ensuring that the two countries maintained a robust relationship during times of global uncertainty.

A Leader of Humility and Vision

Despite his tremendous achievements on the world stage, Dr. Singh was known for his quiet, humble leadership. His approach to governance was marked by calm decision-making and a focus on long-term stability, both economically and politically. His ability to remain calm and composed in the face of challenges earned him respect from leaders across the globe.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Singh remained committed to economic reforms, social welfare programs, and maintaining India’s independence in foreign policy. His efforts toward liberalizing India’s economy in the early 1990s, including measures that opened the country to foreign investments, set the stage for decades of growth. His focus on poverty reduction, rural development, and education reforms continues to shape India’s policy landscape.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Singh’s legacy is far-reaching, encompassing his efforts in domestic policy and international relations. He was instrumental in strengthening India’s position in global forums, while also prioritizing social justice at home. The economic reforms he championed not only transformed India but also helped establish it as a major global player.

His leadership in navigating complex geopolitical challenges, including strengthening ties with the United States, Russia, and the Middle East, was marked by a careful balancing act that respected India’s sovereignty while embracing global engagement.

A Moment of Reflection

As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, Dr. Singh’s passing serves as a moment for reflection on the impact of his life and career. His achievements as an economist, a leader, and a statesman have left an indelible mark on India and the world.

Dr. Singh will be remembered not just for the reforms and policies he implemented but for his dedication to democratic values, integrity, and the welfare of the people. The world has lost a great leader, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The tribute by foreign envoys at the Indian Embassy in New Delhi and the global recognition of his leadership are a testament to Dr. Manmohan Singh’s enduring influence and the respect he commanded on the international stage. His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to India’s growth and the global order will never be forgotten.

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The Paradigm Shift

Covey emphasizes that personal and professional effectiveness begins with a paradigm shift—a change in perspective and mindset. He distinguishes between personality ethics (surface-level traits like image and techniques) and character ethics (core principles like integrity and fairness). Success, he argues, is deeply rooted in aligning our actions with universal principles.

The 7 Habits: A Framework for Effectiveness

Covey’s seven habits are divided into three categories:

1. Private Victory (Habits 1-3): Focus on self-mastery.
2. Public Victory (Habits 4-6): Build effective relationships.
3. Renewal (Habit 7): Sustain and grow your effectiveness.

Habit 1: Be Proactive

Key Principle: Take responsibility for your life and choices.

Being proactive means recognizing that you are the architect of your own life. Instead of reacting to external circumstances, proactive individuals focus on their Circle of Influence—the things they can control. They act based on values, not moods or conditions, and understand that their responses to challenges define their outcomes.

Practical Application:

• Replace reactive language (e.g., “I have to”) with proactive language (e.g., “I choose to”).
• Focus energy on solutions, not problems.

Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind

Key Principle: Define your vision and purpose.

This habit encourages you to imagine your ideal future and work backward to create it. Covey introduces the concept of a personal mission statement, which serves as a guiding compass for decision-making. By aligning daily actions with long-term goals, you ensure that your efforts contribute to meaningful outcomes.

Practical Application:

• Write a personal mission statement.
• Visualize success in all areas of life: career, relationships, health, and spirituality.

Habit 3: Put First Things First

Key Principle: Prioritize what matters most.

Habit 3 focuses on time management and effective prioritization. Covey’s Time Management Matrix categorizes tasks into four quadrants:

1. Urgent and Important (crises)
2. Not Urgent but Important (strategic planning)
3. Urgent but Not Important (distractions)
4. Not Urgent and Not Important (time-wasters)

Highly effective people prioritize Quadrant 2 activities, which are aligned with long-term goals and values.

Practical Application:

• Schedule time for strategic tasks like planning and skill development.
• Learn to say “no” to distractions.

Habit 4: Think Win-Win

Key Principle: Seek mutual benefit in interactions.

This habit shifts the focus from competition to collaboration. A win-win mindset fosters trust, respect, and shared success. It’s not about compromising but finding solutions that satisfy all parties’ interests.

Practical Application:

• Practice empathic listening to understand others’ perspectives.
• Approach negotiations with a collaborative mindset.

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

Key Principle: Listen with empathy.

Communication is the foundation of effective relationships. Covey emphasizes the importance of empathic listening—truly understanding others before expressing your own views. This habit builds trust and opens the door to meaningful dialogue.

Practical Application:

• Avoid interrupting or formulating responses while others are speaking.
• Reflect back what you’ve heard to confirm understanding.

Habit 6: Synergize

Key Principle: Value differences and collaborate creatively.

Synergy is the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. By leveraging diverse strengths, perspectives, and talents, teams can achieve outcomes that are impossible individually. Covey argues that differences should be celebrated, not feared, as they spark innovation and creativity.

Practical Application:

• Encourage open dialogue and brainstorming in group settings.
• Seek out diverse viewpoints to solve problems.

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw

Key Principle: Renew yourself regularly.

This habit emphasizes self-care and continuous improvement in four dimensions: physical, mental, emotional/social, and spiritual. Covey likens it to sharpening a saw—to remain effective, you must invest in renewal and growth.

Practical Application:

• Physical: Exercise, eat healthily, and rest.
• Mental: Read, learn, and challenge your mind.
• Emotional/Social: Build strong relationships.
• Spiritual: Reflect, meditate, and align with your values.

Integrating the Habits into Daily Life

Covey’s framework is not about quick fixes but long-term transformation. Here are some ways to integrate the habits:

1. Start Small: Focus on one habit at a time to build momentum.
2. Reflect and Review: Regularly assess your progress and make adjustments.
3. Teach Others: Sharing the habits with others reinforces your own understanding.

Why These Habits Matter

The seven habits transcend time and culture because they are rooted in universal principles. Whether you’re a student, professional, or parent, these habits provide a roadmap for personal effectiveness and meaningful relationships. They teach you to:

• Take control of your life.
• Clarify your vision.
• Build trust and collaboration.
• Continuously grow and adapt.

Conclusion

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” is more than a book—it’s a philosophy for living a life of purpose and balance. By adopting these habits, you can transform your mindset, enhance your relationships, and achieve your goals. As Covey aptly puts it, “Live your life by design, not by default.” The journey to effectiveness begins with small, intentional steps—and these seven habits offer the perfect starting point.

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