In a country where young people make up the majority of the population, a new wave of leaders is stepping forward. At the Muscat Hub of the Global Shapers Community — an initiative of the World Economic Forum — Omani youth are tackling challenges from sustainability and mental health to skills development and cultural inclusion.
Founded in 2012, the Muscat Hub is part of a global network spanning 508 local hubs in 155 countries with more than 11,500 members. Its projects echo Oman Vision 2040 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, blending global priorities with local realities.
The hub currently counts more than 25 active members and 20 alumni, representing a range of backgrounds, nationalities and professions — all united by the drive to make change possible.
Curator Aya al Sarhani sees the role as more than coordination.
“For me, curating the Muscat Hub is about more than leading a team. It is about creating a space where young people come together to shape solutions, support one another and turn ideas into meaningful impact. We are not just bringing global ideas to life in Oman. We are building a movement of changemakers committed to creating a brighter and more sustainable future”.
That sense of collective action resonates across the hub. For Ali al Bahrani, it was the spirit of collaboration that drew him in.
“Change doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens when passionate individuals come together with a shared vision and a collective purpose”, he says. “Whether through upskilling, sustainability, or empowerment, we have the opportunity to build a community that uplifts everyone. Real change happens when we work together, harnessing our collective strengths to create lasting impact”.
Vice Curator Jaffer al Bahrani stresses that the hub is not just a network but a catalyst for reimagining possibilities.
“The Muscat Hub is more than a network, it is a movement of young changemakers determined to reimagine what is possible for our community in Oman”, he says. “Together, we aspire to design impactful initiatives that address pressing local challenges, amplify youth voices and build bridges between communities”.
For entrepreneur Al Anood al Wahaibi, the hub has been a launchpad for both social impact and personal development.
“Being part of the hub has been a transformative experience that has significantly shaped my personal and professional growth”, she says. “Through initiatives like Shapers4Health, I translated passion into action while gaining essential skills, broadening my perspective and reinforcing my commitment to sustainable impact”.
Outgoing curator Rawan al Mujaini reflects on her tenure as one of leadership through collaboration.
“Serving as Curator of the Global Shapers Muscat Hub has been a deeply meaningful experience”, she notes. “Together, we worked to inspire collective action, influence systemic change and build a more inclusive future in our community. I’m grateful for the dedication and creativity of the team and look forward to seeing the impact grow”.
The hub is also nurturing its youngest voices. Electrical engineering student Saad al Mugharby joined in late 2024, eager to contribute.
“From day one, I felt a genuine sense of belonging”, he says. “Since joining, I’ve taken part in multiple initiatives and am now co-leading the Young Shapers Programme. The hub has been more than just a platform for projects — it has been a space for mentorship, collaboration and personal growth”.
From sustainability campaigns to youth empowerment programmes, the Muscat Hub is giving Oman’s young leaders the tools and confidence to shape a future that is inclusive, resilient and impactful.
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