Speakers | GCGC2024

HH Princess Noura bint Turki Al-Saud

Founding Partner

Aeon Strategy, KSA

BIO

Her Highness Princess Noura bint Turki Al-Saud is the co-founder of Aeon Collective, a Waqf advocating for sustainable practices and inclusive development. She co-leads initiatives like Aeon Strategy, Aeon Placemaking, and Aeon Venture Studio, which focus on sustainable development and community-building. With nearly two decades of experience, she has been a leading voice in climate policy, energy security, and the Circular Carbon Economy in Saudi Arabia. She holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs from Columbia University and has contributed to various think tanks and boards, including the IEA Energy Efficiency Advisory Board.

Workshops 3

Designing Tomorrow: How gifted minds can contribute to innovative cities

Tuesday, 26 NOV 2024
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Dr. Mahmoud Al Yamany

Health, Wellbeing Sector Head

NEOM
Dr. Szilvia Fodor

Psychologist, Assistant Professor

BIO

Dr. Szilvia Fodor, PhD, is an assistant professor at the University of Debrecen, specializing in educational, developmental, and organizational psychology. Her research focuses on positive psychology in gifted education, creative climate, and non-cognitive factors in talent support. She contributes to the European Talent Centre, Budapest, and coordinates the Hungarian Templeton Project for exceptional cognitive talents. Szilvia is also a regular lecturer at postgraduate programs and a member of both the ECHA Education Board and the WCGTC international committee.

Workshops 4

Enhancing Quality of Life for Gifted and Creative Individuals

Tuesday, 26 NOV 2024
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Dr. Saad Bakry

Professor

KSU
Patricia Keating

Senior Manager

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Middle East

BIO

Patricia Keating leads strategic market engagement at PwC Ventures, helping clients scale high-impact ventures powered by world-class Scaleups. She advises on startup ecosystems and innovation consulting in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. As an entrepreneur, Patricia founded her own business in 2014 and launched Manchester's first privately funded tech incubator accelerator in 2017. She is an award-winning leader specializing in nurturing disruptive technology start-ups.

Workshops 2

From Idea to Impact: Nurturing Creativity in Startup Success

Tuesday, 26 NOV 2024
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Eng. Wayal Alnajidi

Director of Financial Services

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)

BIO

Eng. Wayal Alnajidi is a Director at PwC's Financial Services Consulting, specializing in national strategies and digital solutions that drive financial ecosystem growth. He has played a key role in shaping Saudi Arabia's National FinTech Strategy and the SAMA Regulatory Sandbox. With expertise in fintech innovation, SME financing, and policy development, Wayal advises both government and private sector clients. His work supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, promoting financial inclusion and technological transformation.

Workshops 1

Innovate to Elevate: Cultivating a Creative Mindset at Work

Tuesday, 26 NOV 2024
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Dr. Ziad bin Abdullah Al-Drees

Member of the Board of Trustees

King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Endowment for Giftedness

BIO

Dr. Ziad Al-Drees, a cultural sociologist, served as Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO (2006–2016) and chaired the International Plan for Arab Culture Development. Founder of World Arabic Language Day, he currently leads the Abdullah bin Idris Cultural Center and holds key roles in cultural and educational foundations. His works include The Status of Patriarchal Authorities and Diplomatic Struggles.

Panel Discussion 3

Catalysts of Brilliance: Elevating Gifted Minds through Endowment Funds

Monday, 25 NOV 2024
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM