Saudi Youth for Sustainability (SYS) held its second annual conference, Thriving Together, at KAUST on November 2-4. The conference served as an opportunity to gather young people across the country and share their ideas and actions for sustainability. 700 people attended to hear the 85 speakers.

The main themes of the conference were nature, wellbeing, technology and policy, which provided information on the climate and biodiversity of Saudi Arabia, lessons on innovation and entrepreneurship in the country, and opportunities to partner with decision-makers.

Among the many distinguished speakers were leaders in technology, entrepreneurship and policy, including H.E. Mansour Bin Hilial Al Mushait, Vice Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Dr. Mohammed Al Hajji, Director of Behavioral Insights, Ministry of Health, and Dr. Richard Bush, Chief Environment Officer, NEOM. Talks included insights on the latest green technologies and programs under development in Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Mohammed Al Hajji speaking at Thriving Together.

SYS was founded on November 30, 2021, by KAUST students to empower the young to take action on their ideas for strengthening the Saudi economy sustainably. The organization now has 18 groups across Saudi Arabia and over 2500 members, more than doubling its membership from 2022.  

"Our growth shows how much enthusiasm young Saudis have for sustainability. These conferences are a great opportunity for us to gather and decide on our next actions to have a positive impact and bring the environment to the attention of the people," said Dr. Eman Alhajji, founder of SYS.