More than 1,300 young Muslims from Qatar gathered this week at the Multaqa Education City Student Centre for the second edition of the Qiyada conference, a two-day event organized by Qatar Foundation focused on faith, leadership, and navigating contemporary challenges. Under the theme "Guided by Faith: Thriving in a Changing World," the conference aimed to inspire youth to reflect on their Islamic values and develop skills to address global issues in a rapidly evolving environment.
During the event, thought leaders stressed the importance of finding and following a personal "compass"—a guiding purpose or goal that directs one’s efforts and time. Educational consultant and lecturer Dr. Abdulrahman al-Harami described the compass of life as the key determinant of how individuals prioritize their time. He encouraged attendees to examine what they are willing to dedicate their energy toward, emphasizing that those unsure of their compass risk spending life without clear direction. Dr. al-Harami also highlighted the common tendency to postpone happiness to the future instead of cultivating meaningful moments in the present.
The conference also addressed the impact of technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI), on leadership. Muslim chaplain and imam Sheikh Hisham Abu Yusuf spoke on "Prophetic Leadership in the Age of AI," noting that digital technology has transformed how leaders operate and how information is accessed. He observed that the availability of instant answers through AI tools like ChatGPT challenges traditional modes of inquiry and leadership engagement in a highly connected world.
A panel discussion featuring scholar and human rights advocate Dr. Omar Suleiman, Sheikh Ali Hammuda—editor of the Islam21c website—and Dr. Osman Umarji, director of Global Data Studies at Yaqeen Institute and senior consultant to Qatar Foundation, reflected on the conference discussions. Dr. Umarji pointed out that today’s youth are experiencing change at a pace unprecedented in previous generations, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resilience.
In closing remarks, media professional and khatib Sheikh Abdullah al-Buainain emphasized the link between identity and leadership, urging participants to ground their leadership in a clear understanding of their Muslim identity. He added that purpose is not necessarily about recognition or status but about a sense of belonging—a personal question each individual must answer for themselves. The conference thus sought to empower young Muslims in Qatar to combine their faith with practical leadership skills while embracing the challenges of a transforming world.