Under the patronage of the Ministry of Economy and Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, Nestlé has launched its 'Sustainability Heroes' initiative in partnership with INJAZ Al-Arab and INJAZ UAE to empower 200 university students, particularly local youth, with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the world of business and entrepreneurship.

The announcement was made during an event attended by H.E. Safeya Hashem Al Safi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Commercial Control and Governance Sector at the Ministry of Economy, representing H.E. Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; and Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of the Government Communication Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, along with senior executives from Nestlé and INJAZ.

Emphasizing sustainability-driven entrepreneurship, the initiative empowers university students to explore innovative solutions that address pressing environmental and social challenges. The initiative includes the Company Program, which transforms classrooms into start-ups, enabling students to develop their business acumen and entrepreneurial skills while learning from one another and from experienced business leaders. Additionally, participants will receive dedicated training and mentorship from the team at Nestlé UAE.

Through these hands-on experiences and mentorship opportunities, students will gain critical managerial skills and acquire the necessary tools to build successful businesses and enhance their qualifications for roles in the workplace. Additionally, participants will benefit from a fast-tracked interview process for internship opportunities at Nestlé UAE, allowing them to immerse themselves in dynamic business environments.

Hassan Atiah, General Business Manager of Nestlé UAE, said: 'We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the UAE Ministry of Economy and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment for their support of our 'Sustainability Heroes' initiative. This program demonstrates Nestlé's dedication to helping young people develop skills for fulfilling jobs or to start their own businesses.'

H.E. Safeya Hashem Al Safi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Commercial Control and Governance Sector at the Ministry of Economy, said: 'As we strive to enhance our country's position as a global hub for enterprises centered on innovation and sustainability, initiatives such as these add great value to our efforts. The UAE Ministry of Economy wholeheartedly welcomes and actively encourages all efforts by the private sector to foster entrepreneurship in the country, recognizing that their innovative initiatives, investments, and strategic collaborations play a pivotal role in driving economic growth.'

Hajar Bakhit Alketbi, Director of the Government Communication Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, said: 'This program isn't just about learning; it's about doing. It's about creating tangible solutions that address real-world problems and contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come. That is an ethos that we at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment commit to ourselves – our work is solutions-based, and it is science-based. And it is why the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is proud to support this program and its vision.'

Dana Kamali, Chief Business Officer at Majra, the National CSR Fund : 'It is an honor to announce that Sustainability Heroes has been awarded the prestigious Verified Impact Stamp, recognizing their program's alignment with the UAE's national priorities and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This achievement underscores the program's profound impact and its unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change for a sustainable future generation.

Akef Aqrabawi, President & CEO of INJAZ Al-Arab/JA MENA, commented: 'At INJAZ Al-Arab, we strive to create tangible impact by bolstering the future readiness of youth in the region. Through 'Sustainability Heroes', we are empowering students to embrace and enhance their entrepreneurial skills, while giving them the tools and resources needed to unlock their fullest potential and give back to the community.'

Razan Bashiti, CEO of INJAZ UAE, stated: 'The ambition and dedication shown by UAE students has been a consistent source of inspiration. Through 'Sustainability Heroes', we hope to bolster their innovation skills, providing them with practical experiences that can equip them to participate in the entrepreneurial landscape while uplifting our planet and people.'