Al-Futtaim Launches ‘Building Bridges’ to Empower Emirati Youth and Mark 70 Years of UAE–Japan Partnership
Al-Futtaim has announced the launch of “Building Bridges: Voices of the Future”, a flagship initiative in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Culture, Emirates Foundation, and Al Khaleejiya Radio 100.9, with the support of the UAE Pavilion. The programme will send 50 exceptional Emirati youth to represent the UAE at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, as part of the UAE’s Year of Community.
The selected delegates, aged 21 to 30, will explore global showcases, engage in cultural exchange, and connect with innovations shaping the future. The initiative celebrates Al-Futtaim’s more than 70-year partnership with Japan and its representation of 13 Japanese brands, underscoring a commitment to fostering cultural and economic ties.
Symbolic Destination and Rigorous Selection
Osaka was chosen for its significance in reaffirming the UAE–Japan bilateral relationship. Participants were selected through a competitive multi-partner process, evaluated on leadership potential, cross-cultural awareness, community impact, and creativity. Applicants also completed a creative exercise to demonstrate alignment with the programme’s values.
Leadership Endorsements
Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and CEO of Al-Futtaim, described the initiative as “an unparalleled platform for young Emiratis to develop leadership skills and act as global ambassadors.”
H.E. Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, highlighted its role in “strengthening global cultural dialogue and reinforcing UAE–Japan ties.”
H.E. Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation, called it “a transformative experience equipping youth to become impactful leaders and innovators.”
Three Cohorts and Secondment Programme
The 50 delegates will travel in three cohorts between August and October 2025, participating in cultural immersions, leadership workshops, and Expo 2025 visits.
Additionally, as part of its 70YearsForward campaign, Al-Futtaim has launched a secondment programme with the UAE Pavilion, placing talented young Emirati employees on the ground in Osaka to support the nation’s presence.
The Building Bridges initiative aligns with the UAE’s mission to empower youth, foster cultural understanding, and strengthen international collaboration, while celebrating a long-standing partnership with Japan.
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