Media - Global Speakers Bureau

Muna AbuSulayman

Muna AbuSulayman Keynote Speaker: Inspiring Ideas for Today’s Leaders

Introduction and Background

Muna AbuSulayman is a renowned media personality and strategic development expert, recognized among the 500 Most Influential Muslims globally.
She is a former Secretary-General of the Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation, where she led strategic initiatives addressing poverty, education, and entrepreneurship in the Arab world. As an executive manager, AbuSulayman demonstrated significant management expertise and seniority, overseeing major projects and organizational responsibilities. The Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Kingdom Holding Company, focusing on strategic and global philanthropic activities that support charitable projects and humanitarian initiatives worldwide.
AbuSulayman holds a degree in English Literature from King Saud University and is also a graduate of George Mason University, with executive programs at Stanford and Harvard, integrating artificial intelligence and cloud technology to enhance Arabic content access.
She is a Young Global Leader, selected by the World Economic Forum in 2007, and has spoken at numerous conferences, including the Davos World Economic Forum and Jeddah Economic Forum.
AbuSulayman is a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program, championing humanitarian causes and women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia and beyond. She has also advocated for public health initiatives, notably supporting the 2011 tetanus shot campaign for Yemen to improve immunization and save lives.

Leadership and Women's Empowerment

Muna AbuSulayman is a pioneering figure in women’s empowerment, focusing on female empowerment, education, and community development in the Arab world. She is also recognized for her leadership in women empowerment initiatives, advancing gender equality and supporting women entrepreneurs.

She has led initiatives to combat poverty, improve Islam-West dialogue, and promote sustainable development, recognizing the importance of empowering women in these efforts.

As a public and media personality, AbuSulayman has served as a co host of MBC TV’s Kalam Nawaem and spoken at global forums, promoting Arab world achievements and challenging stereotypes as a modern Saudi woman breaking barriers and representing Saudi women on international platforms.

She serves on advisory boards for organizations devoted to women’s empowerment, education, and philanthropy, including the Saudi Media Association and the Muslim Women’s Fund.

AbuSulayman’s work focuses on addressing issues related to media, education, and challenges facing Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, with a particular emphasis on women’s empowerment and community development. She has been actively involved in teaching and capacity-building programs, especially in informal settlements, and has contributed to educational initiatives that support children and youth in underserved communities.

Leadership Style and Impact

Muna AbuSulayman’s leadership style is defined by her remarkable ability to bridge cultures and foster meaningful dialogue between the East and West. As a celebrated media personality and strategic development expert, she has been recognized among the world’s most influential Muslims, a testament to her far-reaching impact across the Arab world and beyond. Her tenure as the former Secretary-General of the Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation showcased her talent for spearheading strategic initiatives that address some of the most pressing challenges facing society, from combating poverty to empowering women and advancing community development.

Honored as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, AbuSulayman has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to leadership. She has co-founded and advised organizations focused on women’s empowerment, education, and media reform, always with an eye toward sustainable development and social progress. Her work with the United Nations Development Program as a Goodwill Ambassador further highlights her commitment to humanitarian assistance and her ability to mobilize resources and attention for causes that matter.

AbuSulayman’s influence extends into the media landscape, where her role as co-host of the widely viewed Kalam Nawaem has allowed her to reach millions, challenging stereotypes and advocating for the empowerment of women across the Middle East. Her leadership is characterized by a unique blend of strategic vision and personal empathy, inspiring others to take action and pursue positive change within their own communities.

Her dedication to issues such as climate change, education, and social responsibility has earned her prestigious accolades, including the International Relations Award from the Middle East Excellence Awards Institute. As Executive Director of the Kingdom Foundation and a volunteer director for the Friends of Saudi Arabia Association, she has championed philanthropic efforts that uplift underrepresented groups and promote sustainable solutions.

As a Saudi woman who has navigated and transcended traditional boundaries, Muna AbuSulayman stands as a role model for aspiring leaders. Her ability to balance respect for cultural heritage with a drive for innovation and progress has paved the way for future generations of women in Saudi Arabia and the wider Arab world. Through her advisory roles with the Saudi Media Association and the Muslim Women’s Fund, she continues to advocate for education, media reform, and the empowerment of women.

In every endeavor, Muna AbuSulayman exemplifies the qualities of a transformative leader—visionary, compassionate, and unwavering in her pursuit of a more equitable and sustainable world. Her legacy is not only reflected in the organizations she has led and the initiatives she has launched, but also in the countless individuals she has inspired to become agents of change in their own right.

Regional Expertise and Experience in the Arab World

Muna AbuSulayman has extensive experience in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where she has worked on strategic initiatives and philanthropic activities.
She is the Executive Director of the Kingdom Foundation, overseeing global philanthropic activities and strategic philanthropy in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
AbuSulayman has a deep understanding of the Arab world, its culture, and its challenges, and has focused on building bridges between East and West through university education and media initiatives to foster cross-cultural understanding. She has also been actively involved in improving communications between different cultures and regions, collaborating with organizations such as Soliya and Meedan to bridge communication gaps and promote dialogue.
She has been recognized for her contributions to regional development, including receiving the International Relations Award from the Middle East Excellence Awards Institute.
AbuSulayman’s expertise in regional affairs has been sought by organizations such as the Brookings Institution Conferences and the World Economic Forum. Her engagement with strategic studies, policy analysis, and leadership development has further established her as a key figure in governance and policy strategy within the region.

Career and Achievements

Muna AbuSulayman’s career stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering women and driving positive change across the Arab world. As a distinguished public and media personality, she has leveraged her platform to advocate for education, community development, and the advancement of women in society. Recognized among the 500 Most Influential Muslims, AbuSulayman has co-founded and led organizations focused on strategic initiatives that address some of the region’s most pressing challenges, including poverty alleviation and intercultural dialogue.

Her tenure as the former Secretary-General of the Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation marked a period of transformative impact, where she spearheaded programs designed to combat poverty, empower women, and foster understanding between diverse communities. AbuSulayman’s expertise and vision have earned her invitations to speak at prestigious gatherings such as the Davos World Economic Forum, Jeddah Economic Forum, and Brookings Institution Conferences, where she has addressed issues related to women’s empowerment, international relations, and community development. She has been acknowledged by the World Economic Forum as a young leader, recognized for her influence and potential to address global challenges on humanitarian, diplomatic, and developmental fronts.

Her trailblazing achievements have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the International Relations Award, and her historic appointment as the first woman from Saudi Arabia to serve as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program. Through her leadership, AbuSulayman continues to inspire organizations and individuals worldwide to focus on education, media reform, and the empowerment of women, solidifying her legacy as a driving force for progress in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Advisory Roles and Speaking Engagements

Muna AbuSulayman serves on the advisory board of Meedan, a premier content translation platform and an organization devoted to high-quality content translation and cross-cultural understanding, and is active in Saudi media and educational organizations.
She is a sought-after speaker, having addressed audiences at the Davos World Economic Forum, Jeddah Economic Forum, and Brookings Institution Conferences.
AbuSulayman has spoken on topics such as women’s empowerment, sustainable development, and climate change, and has participated in research initiatives focused on these areas.
She is a co-founder of 3S Consulting, ADRI, Healthkey Tech, and partner at Transform VC, demonstrating leadership in business and entrepreneurship by supporting underrepresented founders and Deep Tech MENA entrepreneurs.
AbuSulayman’s speaking engagements have taken her to different audiences around the world, where she has shared her insights on leadership, empowerment, and regional expertise.

Legacy and Lasting Influence

Muna AbuSulayman’s legacy is defined by her transformative influence on women’s empowerment and community development, both in Saudi Arabia and throughout the Arab world. As a pioneering media personality, she has played a crucial role in challenging outdated stereotypes and highlighting the dynamic contributions of Saudi women to society. Her dedication to strategic philanthropy and humanitarian assistance has not only improved lives but also inspired a new generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers committed to building a more inclusive and equitable future.

AbuSulayman’s vision extends to fostering innovation in the Middle East, particularly through her support for Deep Tech MENA and her efforts to elevate underrepresented entrepreneurs to global prominence. As a Young Global Leader and the former founding Secretary-General of the Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation, she has championed sustainable development, climate change awareness, and the integration of artificial intelligence to address complex societal challenges.

Her work continues to build bridges between the East and West, promoting dialogue, understanding, and collaboration on a global scale. Muna AbuSulayman’s enduring impact is felt not only in the organizations she has led and the initiatives she has launched, but also in the countless lives she has touched through her advocacy, philanthropy, and leadership. Her legacy serves as a beacon for those striving to create positive change in the world, reinforcing the vital importance of empowering women and advancing community development across the Middle East and beyond.

Conclusion and Call-to-Action

Muna AbuSulayman is a leading voice on women’s empowerment, education, and community development in the Arab world.
Her work as a media personality, strategic development expert, and philanthropist has inspired countless individuals and organizations to take action.
As a Young Global Leader and Goodwill Ambassador, AbuSulayman continues to champion humanitarian causes and promote sustainable development in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Her legacy serves as a call-to-action for leaders around the world to prioritize women’s empowerment, education, and community development.
By supporting organizations and initiatives focused on these areas, we can work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Tim Willcox

One of the most recognisable and trusted faces in UK and international news, after many years as a BBC Anchor - also, a Moderator, Event MC, Keynote Speaker.

Tim Willcox is best known as a professional TV presenter - versatile and relaxed in even the most challenging and sensitive situations. As a BBC News Anchor for more than 20 years, Tim brought clarity to international audiences during some of the biggest breaking stories in recent history. Now as an independent journalist and broadcaster, his ability to encapsulate and explain the essence of complicated and fast moving events is as relevant as ever.

Tim frequently chairs, moderates and is a keynote speaker at major corporate conferences and festivals in the UK and around the world. He is adept at handling key interviews and panel discussions, and brings organisational skill, fluency, personality and energy to his role .

Beginning his career on London’s Fleet Street in the 1980s, Tim has written for leading UK papers including the Times, Telegraph, Mirror Group, FT and Spectator.

Tim’s TV career started at ITN as a correspondent and presenter, followed by the BBC where he anchored BBC flagship news programmes from London and around the world. Working in the field and the studio he has covered some of the most tumultuous events in modern history.

A born storyteller and communicator, Tim has brought sensitivity and global attention to people’s darkest and also happiest moments. He is equally at home interviewing leaders from the business, cultural, military and political communities.

Tim has produced and presented several highly acclaimed documentaries on a wide range of subjects.

As a practising trumpeter, a published author and Spanish speaker, the fields of music and literature are of particular interest.

Bassem Youssef

Bassem Youssef is an Egyptian comedian and columnist and former cardiothoracic surgeon.

He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, where he also earned his PhD. In cardiothoracic surgery, and worked shortly as a professor. He traveled to the United States and Europe to work in the cardiac surgery and transplant technologies field, and earned his surgeon license in the United Stated in 2005, Bassem's breakthrough in comedy was through his satirical show “The B+ Show,” that was inspired by the Egyptian Revolution of 2011, which he launched on Youtube to earn five million views in less than three months. He went on to sign with the Egyptian satellite channel ONTV, where he started hosting “Al Bernameg” (The Program), with a budget of half a million dollars. The show was then renewed for a second season on another channel, CBC, and the production studio was changed to Radio Theater in Cairo. The second season consisted of 29 episodes and has recorded one of the highest viewership ratings on both TV and internet with 40 million viewers on TV and more than 120 million combined views for his show on YouTube alone. Due to legal conflicts with the channel, Bassem's contract with CBC was terminated after completing one season and three episodes. The third season of the show has aired on MBC MASR.

In 2013, Bassem was named one of the "100 most influential people in the world" by TIME magazine and one of Foreign Policy magazine 100 Leading Global Thinkers.

He was also awarded with the International Press Freedom Award of 2013 from the Committee to Protect Journalists and was announced the most searched figure in 2013 by Google. Al Bernameg was chosen by South by Southwest, one of the largest international interactive festivals, as the first and most successful internet to TV conversion story in the Middle East. Al Bernameg YouTube channel was the first channel in the MENA region to reach one million subscribers and was awarded the gold button trophy.

In January 2015, Harvard’s Institute of Politics (IOP), at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, announced that Youssef will be a Resident Fellow for the spring semester.

Stephen Sackur

Stephen Sackur, the presenter of HARDtalk, BBC World News’ flagship current affairs interview programme, has been a journalist with BBC News since 1986. Broadcasting across BBC World News, BBC News Channel and BBC World Service, Stephen has interviewed many high-profile guests.

In November 2010, Stephen was awarded the ‘International TV Personality of the Year Award’ by the Association of International Broadcasters.

Before taking over HARDtalk, Stephen was based in Brussels for three years as the BBC’s Europe Correspondent. He travelled across Europe to cover major stories around the continent, including Europe’s worst terror attack of recent times in Madrid in 2004, and the expansion of the European Union from 15 countries to 25.

Prior to this, Stephen was the BBC’s Washington Correspondent from July 1997. With a keen interest in politics, he has interviewed President George W. Bush, covered the 2000 US Presidential Elections, the Clinton scandal and impeachment trial, and the ways and means of lawmaking, including campaign finance reform. He also made a documentary for the BBC’s current affairs programme Panorama on the topic of guns and weapon manufacturer lawsuits in the US.

Stephen has also been the BBC Middle East Correspondent in both Cairo (from 1992 to 1995) and Jerusalem (from 1995 to 1997), covering the peace process, the assassination of the Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and the emergence of the Palestinian Authority under the late Yasser Arafat. To prepare a documentary on Islamic fundamentalism, he lived with Hezbollah guerrillas in south Lebanon for two weeks.

In 1990, Stephen was appointed as a BBC Foreign Correspondent. He was part of the BBC’s team of correspondents covering the Gulf War, spending eight weeks with the British Army when the conflict began. He was the first correspondent to break the story of the mass killing on the Basra road out of Kuwait City, marking the end of the war. He travelled back to Iraq just after the downfall of Saddam Hussein and filed the first television reports on Iraq’s mass graves which contained the bodies of thousands of victims of Saddam’s regime.

In Eastern Europe, as witness to Communism’s last days, Stephen offered a unique perspective on the rocky road to democracy and stability for this area. Serving as correspondent for BBC national radio, he reported on Czechoslovakia’s Velvet Revolution and Germany’s reunification. He has contributed countless articles to The Observer, The London Review of Books, New Statesman, The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph.

Born in Lincolnshire, England, Stephen was educated at both Cambridge and Harvard University.