Baghdad, Iraq | September 2025: Young Arab Leaders (YAL), the regional initiative dedicated to promoting leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation, officially organized its activities in Iraq today with a high-profile kickoff event.
Zain Iraq Held at ZINC Hall in partnership with Zain Cash, the event gathered more than 100 participants, including entrepreneurs, innovators, ecosystem enablers, and YAL representatives from across the region. The event represents the starting point of YAL’s journey in Iraq, designed to inspire and connect young leaders while creating new pathways for social inclusion and economic opportunity.
By organizing in Iraq, YAL extends its regional mission to one of the youngest and most dynamic populations in the Middle East. This kickoff event reflects YAL’s commitment to equip Iraqi youth with the mentorship, networks, and leadership opportunities needed to drive meaningful change and unlock their full potential.
“By expanding YAL into Iraq, we are reinforcing our belief in the power of young leaders to drive meaningful change,” said Yazan Altimimi YAL’s representative and CEO of Zain Cash. “This kickoff marks the beginning of a long-term journey to support Iraq’s youth in unlocking their leadership potential and contributing to the region’s shared prosperity.”
“Iraq’s young population represents one of the greatest opportunities for the Arab world,” added Mr. Yazan Altimimi. “By equipping them with mentorship and access to networks, we are not only investing in their future but also strengthening the entire region’s capacity for innovation and growth.”
The kickoff featured keynote speeches, discussion panels, and mentorship exchanges with leading experts. It provided participants with valuable insights and opportunities to collaborate with regional leaders, positioning Iraq as an active contributor to the wider Arab ecosystem.