Abu Dhabi: Getting a first-hand perspective on some of the key challenges to the global energy market, young Emiratis were involved as part of the UAE’s official delegation to the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) 7th International Seminar in June.
The Emiratis were all employees from Mubadala Investment Company’s Petroleum and Petrochemicals Platform, and formed part of the 60-member-strong UAE delegation to the event. The young Emiratis were invited to take part at the major international conference as part of the company’s human capacity development, and to also afford them the opportunity to hear a diverse range of viewpoints from industry leaders on the critical needs of today’s energy market.
“I was excited to have the opportunity to attend a premier energy event of this scale. Listening to industry thought leaders gave me a different outlook on energy in today’s world, and I had various opportunities to engage in the exchange of knowledge with my peers,’ said Ahmad Budebs, a senior analyst.
“I attended various panel discussions and informational sessions, which added to my knowledge of the industry, especially the shifts we are all witnessing within the industry. As I am now more aware of these shifts and disruptions in everything we do, the way we develop and implement strategies will be more effective in the long term,” he added, explaining how the experience will benefit him in his daily job as an analyst.
Obaid Thani Al Muhairi, another Emirati analyst with the UAE delegation, also spoke positively on his experience. “This was the first time I attended the Opec seminar, and I was honoured to meet and engage, with international delegates, along with global leadership from various entities.
“[Listening to] Dr Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber, UAE Minister of State and group CEO of Adnoc, gave me a renewed sense of optimism based on his predictions for the future of energy, in addition to his highly impactful statements on what we can all do to contribute to a more prosperous global energy economy,” he added.
“Everything I learnt at the seminar empowered me to be more vigilant when evaluating the changes in energy companies’ share prices, and to seek more diverse sources when developing growth strategies,” Budebs said.
Hamad Al Suwaidi, a senior analyst, said his interactions at the event had inspired him to do more for the UAE and its energy demands. “I was always passionate about my career path and the energy industry. Because of the wealth of knowledge I gained, I returned with a heightened interest in helping shape our national energy industry.
“I met with key energy figures [during the seminar] and discussed the state of the oil and gas industry. Through this experience, I became inspired to make a difference and felt empowered to drive that difference back home,” he added.
“The experience made me develop a sense of accountability and mentorship. I believe I will be involved in various speaking engagements to pass on my knowledge and make a real difference in human development, a value which is close to my heart,” Al Muhairi said, highlighting how he one day hopes to also help other young Emiratis in the energy industry.
