Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, the founder of the “Qiyadiyin” training center, emphasizes the importance of family in developing leadership traits among the younger generation. In a recent interview, he explained that the criticisms faced by today’s youth regarding perceived indulgence or lack of responsibility stem not from the young individuals themselves but rather from the foundational environment in which they are raised. Al-Issa underscores that the essence of leadership begins at home, and it is the parents’ obligation to instill values like self-belief and accountability in their children. He firmly believes that the new generation is fully entitled to enjoy the advancements and opportunities provided by the UAE, making the family’s role in crafting future leaders more crucial than ever.
Leadership Foundations
During his discussion with “Arabcast,” Al-Issa reiterated that leadership is not solely cultivated within training rooms or academic institutions. Instead, he insists that the characteristics of a leader are nurtured in a loving, trust-filled environment at home. He states, “A child raised in an atmosphere of love, respect, and trust is better equipped to tackle challenges and make sound decisions.” This perspective highlights the UAE’s commitment to family as a vital pillar for social stability, as strong communities grow from resilient family units.
Shifting Responsibility
Al-Issa places significant responsibility on the previous generation, stating, “I do not blame the new generation but hold the older generation accountable, as the foundation is key. When families are sound, they produce capable individuals who can navigate responsibilities and assume leadership roles.” He challenges the notion that today’s youth, enjoying their modern privileges, lack the ability to take responsibility. “We have raised them in such a manner; of course, they have the right to engage fully with their times,” he remarks, emphasizing that true leadership transcends mere lifestyle preferences. It relates more to the values imparted within the family setting, particularly since a supportive upbringing can foster resilience and confidence.
Role Models in Leadership
Al-Issa points to the example of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, as a model of effective leadership shaped by a nurturing environment. “Sheikh Hamdan grew up surrounded by luxury and yet demonstrates creativity, intelligence, and leadership,” he notes. This duality can be attributed to the upbringing he received from his father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Such examples illustrate the profound impact families can have in cultivating capable leaders across generations.
The Path to Leadership
Discussing the distinguishing attributes of successful leaders, Al-Issa argues that leadership is not merely a title but rather a mindset. He describes a genuine leader as composed and wise, who thoughtfully considers all relevant factors before making decisions. This ability to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities further defines their approach. “True leadership involves creativity, patience, and the capacity to bring diverse minds together to achieve collective goals,” he asserts.
Al-Issa’s insights are drawn from over three decades of experience in safety and training, during which he has educated thousands of employees across various organizations. His dedication led to the founding of “Qiyadiyin,” which provides fully remote training programs, adapting to the needs of the current times. Importantly, he views retirement not as a cessation of achievement but as a transition to explore new successes.
Reflecting on pivotal moments in his life, Al-Issa speaks of the profound influence of his father and family support in his academic pursuits, leading him to attain his doctorate. He shares a life-altering experience in 1988 when a simple phone call from his mother redirected his career trajectory away from engineering to an emphasis on safety, driven by the aftermath of a tragic accident in the North Sea.
Al-Issa believes that his training center, aptly named “Qiyadiyin,” represents the UAE’s emergence as a global model for leadership development, highlighting national initiatives aimed at enhancing family, education, and youth empowerment. This belief inspires him relentlessly in his professional journey, illuminating the essential role that family plays in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
In a world where leadership must adapt to new challenges, the emphasis on nurturing strong family values remains paramount. Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa’s perspective enriches the ongoing conversation about leadership in our rapidly changing society.