Page 93 - MINISTRY OF CULTURE PR REPORT - AUGUST 2025

8/15/25, 1:07 PM Al-Futtaim Launches “Building Bridges” to Empower Emirati Y0

Al-Futtaim Launches “Building Bridges” to Empower Emirati Youth

and Celebrate 70 Years of UAE–Japan Partnership

2 hours ago 3 minutes read

In recognition of the UAE’s Year of Community, Al-Futtaim, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture, Emirates Foundation and Al
Khaleejiya Radio 100.9, and with the support of the UAE Pavilion is proud to launch “Building Bridges: Voices of the Future”, a landmark
initiative that will see 50 exceptional Emirati youth represent the UAE at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, while giving them the opportunity to explore
the Expo’s global showcases, participate in cultural exchange, and engage with innovations shaping the future.”

This initiative reflects Al-Futtaim’s enduring commitment to national development and global engagement. It also underscores the company’s
legacy of more than 70 years of partnership with Japan, through its representation of 13 leading Japanese brands. The choice of Osaka as the
destination is symbolic, reaffirming the deep bilateral relationship and a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and cross-cultural
exchange.

The delegates, aged 21 to 30, were selected through a rigorous, multi-partner process led by Al-Futtaim, the UAE Ministry of Culture, Emirates
Foundation, and Al Khaleejiya Radio. Candidates were evaluated based on key criteria such as ambassadorial potential, creativity, cross-cultural
awareness, community impact, and leadership capability. As part of the selection, applicants were asked to complete a creative exercise that
demonstrated their alignment with the programme’s values.

Commenting on the initiative, Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Al-Futtaim said: “This initiative perfectly aligns
with our values of empowering individuals and contributing to the prosperity of the nation.

By providing these exceptional young Emiratis with the opportunity to represent the UAE on a global stage, we are not only strengthening the
bond between the UAE and Japan but also investing in the development of future ambassadors who will carry the UAE’s message of progress,
diversity, and innovation to the world. This programme provides an unparalleled platform for young Emiratis to develop their leadership skills,
broaden their horizons, and become influential advocates for the UAE on the global stage, truly celebrating their voices as future global
ambassadors.”

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