Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan Al Nahyan

Global advocate for youth empowerment and AI in sustainability

Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan Al Nahyan is the UAE's Minister of State for Youth Affairs and driving force behind AI-driven sustainability initiatives. Appointed at age 22 in 2018, she has redefined youth policy globally by launching the Global Youth Ambassador Program, which connects 10,000 young leaders across 150 countries.

Her pioneering work in AI ethics led to establishing the World Government Summit AI Council in 2020. She co-founded the AI for Good global summit series, fostering partnerships between tech companies and UN agencies. In 2022, she launched the Youth Climate Innovation Hub, a $50 million fund supporting green tech startups in developing nations.

Shamma's leadership shaped the UAE's 2021-2031 National Youth Strategy, prioritizing STEM education and mental health. She chairs the International Youth Council, advising G20 leaders on generational issues. Her 2023 white paper "Ethical AI Framework for Sustainable Development Goals" has been adopted by 28 countries.