< Previous40 CEO MIDDLE EAST 15–30 APRIL 2024 n an era defined by rapid technological advancements and the ongoing pursuit of innovation, traditional career tra- jectories have been challenged by a paradigm shift. An emerging culture of young entrepreneurship, marked by a data-driven, digital-first, early-adopter mindset, is redefining and reshaping the modern business landscape. At the age of 27, I too found myself at the crossroads of the stability of full-time their ability to leverage technology, navigate uncertainty, and embrace change. The digital era has ushered in a new wave of opportunities, enabling young innovators to create businesses that transcend geographical boundaries and tap into global markets. Stanford Graduate School of Busi- ness has shed some light on the secrets of highly successful young entrepre- neurs, pointing to the importance of a dynamic mindset. Unlike previous generations, Millennials and Gen Z are less afraid to challenge the status quo. They embrace risk and view failure not as an impediment, but as a stepping stone toward growth. This resilience, coupled with an insatiable appetite for learning, positions young entrepre- neurs to thrive in the ever-changing business landscape. Conversations among my circles suggest a key factor driving the surge in young entrepreneurship is the accessi- Dynamic entrepreneurial spirit will spearhead innovation in the digital age THE RISE OF THE YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR The digital era has ushered in a new wave of opportunities, enabling young innovators to create businesses that transcend geographical boundaries and tap into global markets BY SOPHIE SIMPSON, FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ATTELINE I TECHNOLOGY employment, or the risk and opportuni- ty of “going it alone”, a pivotal moment reflective of the broader trend among Millennials and Gen Z individuals who are eschewing conventional paths in favour of entrepreneurial endeavours. In my opinion, the entrepreneurial spirit among the younger set is not merely a personal choice; it is a response to the evolving demands of a globalised and digitised economy. The rise of young entrepreneurs is a testament to TECHNOLOGY 15–30 APRIL 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 41 bility of information and resources. The digital age has democratised knowl- edge, enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to access valuable insights, market trends, and success stories at their fingertips. The Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA) acknowledges the role of young talent in driving smart and sus- tainable growth, emphasising the cru- cial intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurial endeavours. The ADDA’s recognition of the symbiotic relationship between young talent and AI underscores the trans- formative potential of technology in shaping the future of entrepreneurship. Today, young entrepreneurs, armed with a deep understanding of data analytics, machine learning, and other AI applications, are well-positioned to create innovative solutions that ad- dress contemporary challenges. This intersection of youth, technology, and entrepreneurship catalyses smart and sustainable growth, aligning with the broader global agenda of fostering in- novation for a better future. Moreover, the cultural shift towards embracing entrepreneurship has been facilitated by a supportive ecosys- tem that encourages risk-taking and creativity. Incubators, accelerators, and mentorship programmes play a pivotal role in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among the young. These initia- tives provide youthful innovators with the guidance, resources, and networks needed to turn their ideas into viable businesses. The role of mentorship is hugely significant, with countless entre- preneurs, including myself, who attrib- ute their achievements to the guidance received from experienced mentors and acknowledging what we don’t know and, in response, surrounding ourselves with those who are the experts. However, the journey of a young entrepreneur is not without its chal- lenges. The dynamic nature of the digital landscape, while offering opportunities, also presents formida- neurs on shaping the business landscape. As has been highlighted in Stanford’s research, the ability to harness technol- ogy for efficiency and scalability is a defining trait of successful young en- trepreneurs. Whether it’s leveraging AI for data analysis, utilising blockchain for transparent transactions, or harnessing the power of the Internet of Things for connectivity, the integration of tech- nology has become inseparable from the entrepreneurial playbook. The rise of the young entrepreneur certainly symbolises a departure from conventional career paths and a bold embrace of the digital era’s boundless opportunities. The convergence of youth, technology, and entrepreneur- ship has given rise to a generation that thrives on innovation, challenges the norm, and envisions a future shaped by their ingenuity. As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving business landscape, I see the success of young entrepreneurs not just as per- sonal triumphs, but as part of a collec- tive driving force toward progress and sustainable growth. “THE CONVERGENCE OF YOUTH, TECHNOLOGY, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP HAS GIVEN RISE TO A GENERATION THAT THRIVES ON INNOVATION” Simpson says the global economy’s reliance on technology and innovation further amplifies the impact of young entrepreneurs on shaping the business landscape ble obstacles. Cybersecurity threats, market saturation, and the need for continuous adaptation pose challenges that demand resilience and strategic thinking. This is why cultivating a growth mindset, advocating for the ability to view challenges as learning opportunities and embracing failure as an integral part of the entrepreneurial journey are all keys to success. The global economy’s reliance on technology and innovation further amplifies the impact of young entrepre-42 CEO MIDDLE EAST 15–30 APRIL 2024 s global trade takes centre stage in fuelling sustainable growth, the logistics industry emerges as the unsung hero, tirelessly orchestrating the seamless connection of nations and driving the flow of goods that sustains economic vitality. In the strategic landscape of the Middle East, logistics serves as a powerful catalyst for economic growth and international connectivity. However, the modern era introduces a complex dance between geopolitics and commerce, demanding Technology Revolutionising Logistics With the digital ecosystem constantly evolving, technological platforms have, on their part, transformed into indispensable tools for optimising and streamlining logistics operations. For instance, real-time tracking now stands out as a cornerstone of modern logistics, offering a paradigm shift in monitor- ing and managing goods. Emerging technology now provides unparal- leled visibility into every movement of goods throughout the supply chain. Beyond the mere tracking of shipments, technology serves as a disruptive tool for ensuring transparency in the entire logistics process. Besides facilitating transparency, real-time tracking also empowers lo- gistics professionals to make timely and informed decisions. This, in turn, allows for proactive interventions, reducing delays and, most importantly, enhanc- ing overall customer satisfaction. The role of automation in logistics Automation has emerged as a piv- otal catalyst in boosting efficiency and reducing costly errors within the logistics domain. Logistics compa- nies can achieve higher operational accuracy, efficiency, and speed by automating routine tasks. From order processing to inventory management, automation helps optimise workflows, allowing human resources to focus on more complex and strategic aspects of logistics operations. Leveraging data for strategic deci- sion-making has become paramount in the modern logistics landscape, with automation playing an enabling role. Predictive analytics, powered by automated data processing, empow- ers logistics professionals to forecast demand fluctuations and identify potential disruptions in the supply chain. This foresight ultimately allows for implementing proactive measures, eventually contributing to optimising the entire supply chain. Ensuring supply chain resilience during geopolitical disruptions THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN MODERN LOGISTICS The logistics industry serves as a powerful catalyst for economic growth and international connectivity BY SOHAM CHOKSHI, CEO AND CO-FOUNDER OF SHIPSY A TECHNOLOGY resilience in unprecedented challenges. Here, technology goes beyond mere facilitation; it becomes a trans- formative force, constantly reshaping the logistics landscape with innovation as the key driver of the supply chain. Understanding the pivotal role of tech- nology in modern logistics is crucial. It is the first step in ensuring that industry players remain agile, adaptive, and robust amid geopolitical uncertainties, enabling them to navigate challenging times with resilience.TECHNOLOGY 15–30 APRIL 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 43 The ability to anticipate changes in demand, coupled with the proactive identification of potential disruptions, is a testament to the transformative impact of automation on supply chain optimi- sation. As logistics evolves, automation is a linchpin in driving operational ex- cellence and strategic decision-making. Supply chain resilience during geo- political disruptions Geo-political disruptions represent formidable challenges to the intricate web of global supply chains. Real-time and predictive visibility emerges as a powerful tool in addressing these chal- lenges by providing immediate insights into disruptions even as they unfold. This visibility serves as an early warning system and, most importantly, empow- ers logistics professionals to respond swiftly and decisively. Data-driven insights In the modern logistics landscape, data is more than just a byproduct of operations; it is a strategic asset that fuels decision-making and drives efficiency. Data-driven insights encompass a range of applications, starting with route opti- misation, which is the backbone of the logistics industry. Logistics professionals can use historical data and real-time in- formation to identify the most efficient transportation routes, reducing costs and delivery times. Moreover, data-driven decision- making extends to predictive analytics, where algorithms analyse vast datasets to anticipate future trends and disrup- tions. By understanding patterns and potential challenges, companies can proactively implement measures to mitigate risks and ensure a resilient supply chain. Diversifying suppliers Data-driven insights play a crucial role in supplier diversification. Logistics professionals can identify potential vulnerabilities in the supply chain by competitive edge in a fast-paced global market. Companies that invest in sup- plier diversification, guided by data- driven insights, are better equipped to navigate uncertainties and ensure business continuity. Future trends Understanding future trends is criti- cal for staying ahead in the dynamic logistics landscape. Emerging technolo- gies promise to revolutionise logistics in unprecedented ways. With its transpar- ent and tamper-proof nature, block- chain technology holds the potential to enhance traceability and reduce fraud in supply chains. Artificial Intelligence is another frontier, enabling predic- tive analytics to reach unprecedented heights, foreseeing disruptions and opti- mising routes with military precision. Moreover, the Internet of Things is set to play an integral role by providing real-time data from connected devices throughout the supply chain. This not only improves visibility but also facili- tates proactive decision-making. Auto- mated drones and autonomous vehicles are poised to redefine last-mile delivery, making it faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. The future of logistics technol- ogy is intertwined with sustainability. Green logistics, driven by a growing awareness of environmental impact, is gaining prominence. As these trends unfold, logistics companies must remain agile and adapt their strategies to harness the potential of these tech- nologies. Continuous innovation and a forward-thinking approach will be paramount in navigating the logistics landscape of tomorrow. Technology has become the linch- pin of modern logistics, transforming the industry and ensuring supply chain resilience in geopolitical disruptions. As the industry navigates an uncertain era, companies must embrace and invest in technology for a more resilient and efficient logistics ecosystem. “COMPANIES MUST EMBRACE AND INVEST IN TECHNOLOGY FOR A MORE RESILIENT AND EFFICIENT LOGISTICS ECOSYSTEM” Chokshi says the future of logistics technology is intertwined with sustainability $31bn The value of the logistics market in UAE by 2026, according to estimates by Statista analysing historical performance data, market trends, and geopolitical factors. This information enables the strategic selection of alternative suppliers who meet quality standards and align with the company’s values and objectives. The ability to quickly pivot and engage alternative suppliers based on real-time data is a hallmark of a resilient supply chain. This approach minimises disruptions and provides a 44 CEO MIDDLE EAST 15–30 APRIL 2024 he maritime passageways sur- rounding the Arabian Pen- insula, including the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, and the Red Sea, stand as some of the busiest and most crowded in the world. In recent times, there has been an escalation in security incidents within these critical water- ways. Incidents of maritime piracy are rising. One in five wild fish are caught illegally, crippling local economies and destroying livelihoods. Illegal traffick- has made monumental strides over the last ten years but there is a chasm between the milestones it has achieved in the virtual world and the realisation of its potential in the tangible world. Merging AI with advanced robotics systems can bridge this gap. If we can provide AI with a body capable of interfacing with physical environments, we will revolutionise our capabilities in solving real-world prob- lems. Software meets hardware. Theory becomes reality. The potential econom- ic and societal benefits are enormous. Yet, innovation in this field can only flourish in the right conditions. In the UAE, our researchers are backed by a government that has immense con- fidence in its knowledge economy. At ASPIRE, we are living this every day. Take the Mohamed Bin Zayed International Robotics Challenge (MBZIRC) – a global robotics com- petition that convened the world’s Understanding the intersection of AI, autonomy and marine solutions in the UAE CHALLENGING THE IMPOSSIBLE The Mohamed Bin Zayed International Robotics Challenge (MBZIRC) is a global robotics competition that aims to solve critical issues in the maritime sector through tech BY STEPHANE TIMPANO, CEO, ASPIRE T TECHNOLOGY ing of goods and people across our seas is a scourge on our society and a strain on the global economy. Account- ing for over 90 percent of worldwide trade, maritime crime places a substan- tial economic strain on nations heavily dependent on shipping and maritime trade. Humans cannot solve these problems alone. In the UAE, we are investing in research and development to answer these issues – not to debate them. AI TECHNOLOGY 15–30 APRIL 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 45 best minds over years to solve critical issues in the maritime sector through tech. Through setting challenges that are designed to be difficult, we can benchmark global technological progress and push towards reaching world-first innovations. By gamifying research, ASPIRE hope to identify the most compelling use cases for autono- mous robotics. Over the last month, we challenged the best brains in the world to combine un-crewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) and un-crewed surface vessels (USV) seam- lessly, while performing complex tasks in a GPS-denied environment at sea. It sounds difficult, doesn’t it? We planned it that way. Rather than questioning brave ideas, the UAE backs “moon- shot” technologies that could change the world for the better. The five finalist teams that took part in MBZIRC have showcased the most advanced examples of autono- mous robotics technology yet seen in competition. That no team could complete all three tasks illustrates that there is still some way to go before the maritime sector can routinely count on autonomous robotics to address critical issues, such as piracy and smug- gling. Each finalist team will publish white papers resulting from their experimentation during the MBZIRC demonstration, contributing to further research by other international schol- ars. MBZIRC is a key demonstration of how the UAE is not afraid to take on the most demanding technological challenges of our time. In this way, the UAE’s invest- ment firepower and regulatory agility is unique. You can’t deal with the fast-moving world of AI through policy that inhibits advances in technology. You need to invest in, provide space for and build the confidence to innovate. Effective development and imple- mentation of AI technology requires the existence of an entire ecosystem of powers. The Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) has put into place a strong research infrastructure, with ten centres currently working on advanced topics ranging from autono- mous robotics to cryptography. With these strong foundations, the UAE is forecasted to gain the most from the adoption of AI in the Middle East, with estimates suggesting it will account for approximately 14 percent of the county’s GDP by 2030. It is disheartening to see so many of the world’s great research institutions and universities continue to work in silos. Autonomous technology, with its ability to operate tirelessly and without human fatigue, presents a formidable ally in combating maritime challenges. We urge the world to take inspira- tion from cross-border collaboration and call upon other nations to take a more progressive approach to back- ing high-risk ventures. We cannot let the possibility of failure deter us from pursuing big ideas. The riskiest ideas are often the most ground-breaking. As we confront these challenges, investing in AI and autonomous technology is a commitment to safeguarding the seas, protecting the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on maritime trade, and fortifying the backbone of our interconnected global economy. “YOU CAN’T DEAL WITH THE FAST- MOVING WORLD OF A.I. THROUGH POLICY THAT INHIBITS ADVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY” Autonomous technology presents a formidable ally in combating maritime challenges Timpano believes investing in AI and autonomous technology is a commitment to safeguarding the seas training, digital upskilling, investment, incubation, and market entry support. We have been building this for several years and are now on a trajectory to becoming one of the world’s AI super-46 CEO MIDDLE EAST 15–30 APRIL 2024 he stark imbalance of women’s underrepresentation in the global socio-economic landscape has exacerbated challenges of access and equity for at least half of the world’s population, hindering individu- al progress and widening disparities. Globally, and in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), extensive efforts have been made through national pro- grammes, policies, and other strategic initiatives to empower women and improve gender-related indices. Despite ongoing efforts to expand the roles and opportunities available to women, gender disparities persist, and progress toward gender equality is often slow. In 2023, the global gender gap improved by a mere 0.3 percent growth from the previous year, reaching 68.4 percent. During the same period, MENA experienced a 0.9 percent decline, remaining the farthest from As the AI adoption sweeps across industries globally, transforming entire sectors and job categories, there is a unique opportunity for the MENA region to leverage emerging tech CAN THE ONGOING A.I. REVOLUTION HELP MITIGATE MENA’S EMPLOYMENT GENDER GAP? Without providing women and girls equal access to technologies, the future digital economy built on AI algorithms will continue to perpetuate gender biases and deepen existing inequalities BY KAIS ZRIBI, GENERAL MANAGER FOR THE MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA AT COURSERA T TECHNOLOGYTECHNOLOGY 15–30 APRIL 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 47 achieving parity, with a 62.6 percent score. At this rate, full parity will be reached only in 152 years, compared to 115 years in 2022. In MENA, the UAE enjoys the highest gender parity score in the region. Other top regional performers include Bahrain, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt. Despite advances made in empowering women through literacy and education, female labour force participation remains limited in the region with only 19 percent of women over the age of 15 in the work- force. While the uneven transition to the digital economy and socio-cultural mindsets about women’s roles have been key barriers to women’s economic empowerment in MENA, the mismatch between education and skill sets has also contributed to the high unemploy- ment rate of 42.5 percent among Arab women, triple the global average. Today, as the AI revolution sweeps across industries globally, transforming entire sectors and job categories, there is a unique opportunity for the MENA region to leverage artificial intelligence as a catalyst to drive positive change and narrow the gender employment gap. Strategic investments in AI education and IT training programmes can be a game changer in fostering a tech-savvy workforce equipped with the skills required for the jobs of the future. Industries, such as IT, have re- defined traditional work structures, creating a more equitable and inclusive environment where women benefit from flexibility in work schedules and remote working opportunities. New and emerging job roles, like prompt engineering and data analysis, offer sig- nificant promise for women, providing avenues for remote work that overcome traditional barriers such as childcare re- sponsibilities, transportation constraints, and workplace safety concerns. Young people, under 30, consti- tute more than half of the population across MENA, and with record youth Governments, educators, industry leaders, and the private sector must also step up efforts to drive greater invest- ments in practical learning models to ensure that women have equal access to the knowledge and tools to access and succeed in IT and AI roles. This includes building a strong foundation in STEM education to unlock the full potential of women and diversify economies. Increasing the representation of women in STEM fields and leadership roles is a necessary step to drive impact and lead the way for a more equitable future. While technology creates jobs, there is an urgent need to create pathways for women to access flexible, affordable, and accelerated learning. Harnessing the potential of online learning will help advance career outcomes and ensure eq- uitable access to upskilling opportunities for women and underserved popula- tions. A global study on women and online learning in emerging markets has found that taking online courses enabled about one-third of the women learners surveyed to get a new job, start a business, or improve their job or business performance. The study, which draws on user data from nearly 97 mil- lion learners in over 190 countries, also found that 45 percent of women and 60 percent of women caregivers would have had to postpone or stop studies if online learning were not an option. Without providing women and girls equal access to technologies and a role in shaping its future, the future digital economy built on AI algorithms will continue to perpetuate gender biases and deepen existing inequalities. While access to education and training is essential, it is equally important to fo- cus on creating an inclusive workplace environment to ensure the retention of women in the technology sector after hiring. And for this, we need more or- ganisations to encourage diversity, flex- ibility, and mentorship, and commit to prioritising skills and qualifications over gender in the recruitment process. “WE NEED MORE ORGANISATIONS TO ENCOURAGE DIVERSITY, FLEXIBILITY AND MENTORSHIP” There is a unique opportunity for the MENA region to leverage AI as a catalyst to drive positive change, Zribi says unemployment, over half of Arab youth desire to emigrate for better job op- portunities. By addressing this perva- sive employment challenge through dynamic, high-growth career paths in emerging tech sectors, the region stands to reap a demographic and economic dividend and reduce social equity gaps for both genders in the new economy. Investing in AI education and train- ing programmes that link education to the workplace therefore becomes crucial for women to pursue roles in AI devel- opment, data science, robotics, quantum computing, and related fields. 48 CEO MIDDLE EAST 15–30 APRIL 2024 wiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet has teamed up with American singer, guitarist, watch collector and longstanding friend of the brand John Mayer to design the last iteration of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar equipped with the Manufacture’s selfwinding Calibre 5134. For the occasion, Mayer has applied his sensibilities to create a distinctive timepiece, limited to 200 pieces, that combines the aesthetic power of the Royal Oak with the refi nement and The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar combines the aesthetic power of the Royal Oak with the refinement and astronomical roots of the perpetual calendar S A stellar Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar in collaboration with singer John Mayer A long-lasting friend of the brand, the American singer, songwriter and guitarist lent his collector’s eye and his taste for precision and aesthetic beauty to the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar TIMEPIECES astronomical roots of the perpetual calendar. The result is a timelessly elegant watch in 18-carat white gold, enhanced by a deep blue dial where every detail speaks in unison to create a landscape evocative of a crystal sky. Audemars Piguet’s collaboration with seven-time GRAMMY® Award- winning artist, and fervent watch collector, Mayer continues the enriching dialogues the brand has nurtured over the years with talented individuals, whose creative vision has led to the creation of micro-mechanical wonders 15–30 APRIL 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 49 TIMEPIECES blending technical complexity with distinctive designs. Mayer proposed a highly contemporary design that seamlessly evokes the timelessness and refi nement at the heart of the perpetual calendar, while bringing the instantly recognisable aesthetic codes of the Royal Oak to the fore. With its cosmic air, the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Limited Edition puts Calibre 5134 in the history books, while opening up new aesthetic horizons for the Royal Oak collection as a whole. Mayer worked hand in hand with the AP teams to design a picturesque “Crystal Sky” dial, whose texture and vastness lend depth to a complication that has shaped the world of Audemars Piguet since its beginnings. Each detail harmoniously combines to give the timepiece a sense of infi nity. The brass dial plate is fi nished with a new scintillating pattern developed by Audemars Piguet’s artisans to give life to John Mayer’s vision. The embossed motif is composed of irregular shapes resembling crystals, whose sharp angles and facets add relief and brilliance to the piece. To achieve this level of detail and complexity, the stamping die was created atom by atom, through a metal deposition process known as electroforming. “My favourite watches have dials that you can stare endlessly at. A great watch dial feels like a picture window - you look into it, not at it. In the case of this QP, it’s like looking up at a moonless sky. There is a true sense of nature in it. And when you couple that sense of depth and vastness with the complication of a perpetual calendar, it is a very powerful combination of technical prowess and aesthetic design,” Mayer said. with a fl ower-strewn mantle (Spring): each of these animals symbolises a season and embodies the narrative universe and baroque fantasy of the French designer. The beauty of Nature and the depth of time are refl ected in the richness of the motifs, inspired by the costumes of 17th and 20th century French and Russian ballets. Appearing on a refi ned dial elegantly framed by an elegant gold case, this mischievous bestiary reveals unique and precious skills. Each model is issued in a 12-piece limited edition. ADORNED WITH paillonné enamel, engraving, miniature painting and sculpture, four new versions of the Slim d’Hermès have been added to the collection. These meticulously crafted models interpret the cycle of the seasons and deliver a whimsical vision of time. Crafted by experienced artisans, Slim d’Hermès Le Sacre Des Saisons highlights a palette of skills that are as demanding as they are remarkable. Each embodying a season, four animal fi gures – drawn from a Hermès silk scarf designed by artist Pierre Marie – acquire a new artistic dimension on the dial in a profusion of nuances and captivating details. A sun-haloed lion (Summer), an eagle with unfurled leafy wings (Autumn), an ice-crowned wolf (Winter) and a horse $133,193 The price of the Slim d’Hermès Le Sacre des Saisons Winter timepiece THE SLIM D’HERMÈS CELEBRATES THE FOUR SEASONS Information courtesy of the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH) $180,700 The price of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar inspired by singer John MayerNext >