On World Youth Day, we find ourselves entrusted with a profound responsibility toward future generations, toward young people filled with ambition, energy, and creativity. Young people are the true asset of any society; they are the driving force behind development and innovation in our beloved UAE. 

I have always believed that investing in young talent is a strategic commitment that we make to build robust and sustainable institutions. I look back with pride on the opportunity I had early in my career to prove myself and take on responsibility, which was an experience that marked a pivotal moment in my professional journey. Today, I remain committed to identifying and empowering promising talent within the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), fostering confidence among colleagues, and offering them the support they need to spearhead and implement meaningful initiatives and projects.

At this moment, I can only draw inspiration from the vision of the father and founding leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, who said: 'Developing people is more difficult than building factories, and the greatest investment of wealth is in creating generations of educated and enlightened individuals.'

This profound wisdom laid the foundation for the UAE's renaissance and instilled in us the belief that human development and the nurturing of minds are the cornerstones of all progress and prosperity."   

Youth empowerment goes beyond the mere delegation of tasks. It is about creating a stimulating environment that nurtures innovation, fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, encourages experiential learning, and provides thoughtful guidance. At the SCA, we believe that every young individual holds immense potential, and our role is to uncover that potential and chart the right path for growth and development. 

I urge all managers to actively involve young professionals in decision-making and to entrust them with leadership responsibilities. Young people are often better positioned to understand the evolving challenges of our time and to envision solutions for the future. To our youth, both men and women, I say: take initiative and never hesitate to propose ideas. Every idea holds the promise of a brighter future. 

On World Youth Day, we reaffirm our commitment to be among the first to support young people and to continue investing in their growth and development, confident they are the drivers of future progress and the leaders of tomorrow.

Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi

CEO

Securities and Commodities Authority