In an inspiring milestone for youth representation, Emirati student Moza Ahmed has joined the inaugural cohort of the Global Youth Council, representing the United Arab Emirates alongside a diverse group of young leaders from around the globe. This exciting opportunity comes as the new academic year 2026-2027 unfolds at the American School of Creative Science in Nad Al Sheba, Dubai.
From Local Leadership to Global Impact
Moza’s journey into student leadership began a year ago when she became the first president of the Dubai Student Council, an initiative launched by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) as part of Dubai’s educational strategy for 2033, under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. This council was established to create a platform for student voices within the city’s educational framework.
Building Representation and Engagement
As president, Moza was tasked with connecting students across Dubai with the KHDA, allowing them to voice their priorities and contribute to the development of impactful educational programmes and policies. During its inaugural year, the council held 16 internal meetings, developed an interactive platform to gather student feedback, and initiated a newsletter to enhance communication among the student body.
A Diverse Student Council
Describing her election as a culmination of a year immersed in the essence of student engagement, Moza noted that the council comprised 16 students from various private schools, representing six different educational curricula and nine nationalities. The council aimed to voice the interests of approximately 400,000 students within Dubai’s private school system.
Learning Through Representation
Moza reflected on her experience, stating, “Representing around 400,000 students highlighted the diversity of voices and aspirations within Dubai. It taught me that it is not only about listening to young people but also about trusting them and granting them real responsibility.” Her role enabled her to develop dialogue skills and understand broader student concerns, a significant departure from her experiences in her own school.
Embracing the Spirit of “Dubai Action”
Moza’s tenure with the Dubai Student Council revealed to her the true meaning of “Dubai Action” and the emirate’s philosophy of turning ambitious ideas into reality. She expressed, “Being elected as president of the first Dubai Student Council was an experience that transcended mere leadership development. It allowed me to practically evaluate what ‘Dubai Action’ means and how ambitious ideas can lead to tangible outcomes.”
A New Global Platform
Her recent selection to the Global Youth Council marks a significant transition from local representation to an international arena. Moza sees this opportunity as a natural extension of her previous experiences, stating, “It’s a chance for me to carry the values I have absorbed from my student involvement in Dubai—innovation, leadership, and the transformation of ideas into action—while learning from other young leaders worldwide.”
Bridging Voices Across the Globe
Moza highlighted the importance of effective communication and the sharing of ideas. She stated, “The unique aspect of Dubai is its ability to make youth feel that the impossible is merely another challenge to overcome. From creating platforms for student voices to connecting Emirati youth with global opportunities, Dubai affirms that young people are not just the future; they are integral to building the present.”
Support from Educational Leaders
Sara Hollis, Principal of the American School of Creative Science in Nad Al Sheba, expressed pride in Moza’s accomplishments. “We are delighted to see Moza share the confidence, sense of responsibility, and experience she gained during her journey on an international platform. We are confident she will be an exceptional ambassador for Emirati students and embody Dubai’s commitment to empowering youth,” she remarked.
Competitive Selection for the Global Youth Council
Moza’s inclusion in the Global Youth Council follows a highly competitive selection process, with the organising body acknowledging her curiosity, conviction, and potential to make meaningful contributions to the world. The Global Youth Council, established by T4 Education, targets young individuals aged 16 to 18, facilitating a year-long experience that fosters connections among diverse participants.
A Journey of Growth and Learning
The fellowship programme spans 12 months, comprising virtual meetings, mentorship, collaborative work with youth from different backgrounds, and an in-person international summit. Through this new opportunity, Moza aims to broaden her impact and contribute to fostering a global dialogue among her peers, reinforcing the essential role of youth in shaping their present and future.