The conference is taking place on 20-21 April 2025 at JW Marriott Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 20 April 2025 – The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association’s (GPCA) Leaders of Tomorrow (LoT) program celebrated its 20th edition, marking a significant milestone in its mission to develop future-ready talent and foster collaboration between industry and academia. Since its inception in 2016, the program has engaged over 1,250 students from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with strong support from GPCA member companies. Held alongside the 14th GPCA Plastics Conference from 20-21 April 2025, this year’s edition brought together high-achieving university students to gain first-hand insights into the dynamic world of chemicals and petrochemicals.
The event commenced with welcome remarks from Nadia Al Hajji, CEO of PIC, who emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders in the chemical sector. Al Hajji highlighted the program’s role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice, a mission that aims to empower LoT participants to pursue a career in STEM and become part of the GCC chemical industry.
As part of a session titled “Leading with Purpose: Driving Sustainability and Innovation in the Chemical Industry,” Khalid Al Dawood, CEO, NATPET, delved into the intricate balance between profitability, environmental responsibility, and breakthrough innovation. Mater A Al-Dhafeeri, Vice President, Commercial, Sipchem; Mohammad Alsharhan, Global HR Director, EQUATE Petrochemical Company and Raiya Al Salmi, Acting VP Corporate Strategy, OQ, captivated the young audience by highlighting innovative careers in the chemical industry. Al Salmi emphasized the need to prepare for future roles that are yet to be defined in line with technological advancements and the industry’s progressive shift toward sustainability,
Participants engaged in a hands-on workshop delivered by Abdulrahman Almunayes, Corporate Communications Department Leader, EQUATE Petrochemical Company which encouraged them to rethink the lifecycle of plastic by transforming waste into innovative, sustainable products. The program concluded with a site visit to the SABIC Plastics Applications Development Center, where students were provided with practical insights into the applications of plastics in various industries.
Dr. Abdulwahab Al Sadoun, Secretary General, GPCA, commented: “As we mark the 20th edition of the GPCA Leaders of Tomorrow initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering the region’s youth and championing STEM education. As the first initiative of its kind in the region, LoT remains central to GPCA’s vision of building a sustainable and resilient chemical sector through education, empowerment, and meaningful industry-academia partnerships. Together with our members, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow and driving the future of our industry.”
Over the last two decades, the Leaders of Tomorrow program has engaged more than 1,250 students and organized over 12 site visits to research and innovation centers, industry facilities, and universities, playing a pivotal role in inspiring and equipping the next generation of leaders in the chemical sector. By fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration, the program continues to lay the foundation for a sustainable and transformative future.