H.M. Drottningens tal vid Mentor Arabias galamiddag

I would like to begin by expressing my gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Mosa, for hosting and serving as the patron of Mentor Arabia’s Gala Dinner.

It is also a pleasure to have met so many talented young individuals during my visit to the programmes and initiatives yesterday and this morning. I appreciate the meaningful conversations with members of the Mentor Arabia community; as well as with the network of Qatari businesswomen.

It is an honour to be here to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Mentor Arabia; an important member of our Mentor International family.

Three decades ago, I co-founded Mentor International alongside members of the World Health Organization with a clear vision: to create a world where young people are empowered to make informed decisions and lead healthy, positive lives free from risky behaviours.

Since then, Mentor has grown into a global federation, championing youth-focused prevention programmes worldwide. In 2006, Mentor Arabia was founded and has since impacted the lives of young people across the Arab League, including collaborations in Qatar with Education Above All and Qatar Foundation’s Akhlakouna Program. These partnerships focus on building youth capacity, increasing awareness of sustaining green communities, and creating job opportunities.

Tonight, we gather to celebrate Mentor Arabia's achievements and inspire action to address the challenges ahead.

Young people are the cornerstone of sustainable communities and the architects of a brighter future. By empowering them with knowledge, tools, and support, we ensure not just their personal growth, but the resilience and prosperity of entire societies. Sustainable communities thrive when young people are equipped to make informed decisions, take responsibility, and contribute meaningfully.

Mentor Arabia is a vital catalyst in this journey, promoting youth well-being and values of entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation. Through this commitment, we continue to build bridges toward a sustainable future.

Ladies and gentlemen,

In 2025, Mentor’s mission is as critical as it was in 1994. We must continue to prioritise and invest in our youth, empowering them to believe in themselves and shape the world.

I extend my sincere thanks to the Royal Trustees and Members of the Board of Mentor Arabia, and to the organising team behind this evening, especially CEO Thuraya Ismail.

Thanks also to our partners here in Qatar - an inspiring network of companies and organisations, sharing our view that youth is the real wealth of our future, and that their well-being is a collective responsibility.

Finally, I would like to recognise Mentor Arabia’s team, advisors, and supporters. Your contributions have made our mission possible. I encourage you to continue, and amplify, your support, as none of this would be possible without you.

It is truly uplifting to see so many of you here, united in spotlighting the future of Qatari youth and the work of Mentor Arabia. With hope and optimism, I look forward to all we can achieve in the years ahead.

Together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish!

Thank you.