World Economic Forum Appoints Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa as Executive Fellow for Science, Discovery and Innovation
The distinguished Emirati leader has been selected to guide one of six core themes at the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders, underscoring the UAE's pivotal role in shaping global discourse on sustainability and innovation.
The World Economic Forum has conferred a significant honour upon Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, designating her as Executive Fellow of the Science, Discovery and Innovation pillar at the Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders. The appointment, announced during the meeting held in partnership between the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum from 13th to 15th October, represents an extraordinary recognition of her influence and expertise in matters of profound global consequence.
In her multifaceted leadership roles as Chairperson of Frontier25, The Climate Tribe, Aurora50, the Alliance for Global Sustainability, and Reset MENA, Sheikha Shamma has established herself as a transformative voice advocating for sustainable futures and equitable climate action. Her appointment illuminates the growing prominence of Emirati leaders in international dialogue surrounding innovation, environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Reflecting upon her appointment, Sheikha Shamma expressed her commitment to fostering meaningful exchange amongst distinguished experts, emphasising the profound significance of shared knowledge in constructing sustainable futures. She articulated a compelling vision of scaling solutions expeditiously whilst ensuring equitable support across communities, a dual imperative that reflects contemporary challenges in climate action and global sustainability.
As Executive Fellow, Sheikha Shamma will serve a one-year term, during which she will provide strategic thought leadership, intellectual guidance and convening authority around the Science, Discovery and Innovation theme. This role extends beyond the meeting itself, sustaining collaborative momentum and advancing practical solutions to emerging challenges facing societies worldwide.
The Annual Meeting of Global Future Leaders has assembled an exceptional gathering of more than 700 leaders and distinguished experts representing 90 nations, encompassing ministers, senior government officials, 300 Young Global Leaders and 150 UAE government leaders. The comprehensive programme explores six interconnected strategic themes: Artificial Intelligence, Technology and Human Agency; Science, Discovery and Innovation; Economic Growth; Geopolitics, Security and Trade; Leadership and Human Flourishing; and Climate, Nature and Sustainability.
Sheikha Shamma’s selection as a member of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders community in 2023 signalled her exceptional standing amongst a distinguished cadre of approximately 100 emerging leaders recognised globally for their transformative achievements and meaningful impact across diverse sectors. Her appointment to this executive fellowship position underscores the trajectory of her influence and the international esteem in which she is held.
Source: WAM