A.A.:

Name: A.A.
Country: Egypt/United Arab Emirates
Age: 23
Language[s]: English, Arabic, French

Relevant Experience/Membership:
• I am currently pursuing an MA degree in Peace, Development and International Conflict Transformation
• I was/am also a member in the following capacities amongst others:
• Youth Ambassador of the United Religions Initiative
• Member of British Council's Global Change Makers
• Delegate to World Economic Forum on the Middle East
• International Team leader in APEC Youth Meeting in Seoul
• Participated in Several Youth Leadership training in countries like Jordan, India, Germany, etc
• Presented a workshop on Euro-Med dialogue and co-operation, Spain, 2010
• WYMD essay contest winner - MENA region

Why do you want to serve on the Board?

Human rights, democratic values and peace-building have always been an integral part of my academic, personal and professional life. I believe that religion and democracy do not contradict each other's values and therefore aim to encourage people of all faiths to contribute their ideas and be included in this process. Through serving on the board, I also aspire to represent the enormous potential of women from the Middle-East to actively participate in making a change.

What skills can you contribute to the leadership and objectives of the network?

• Academic input on peace-building & conflict transformation knowledge and best practices
• Teamwork spirit
• Interfaith/Intercultural dialogue in line with democracy struggles and goals
• Writing/Editing skills to assist in documents/essays etc
• Facilitating and co-ordinating youth meetings
• Help with fund-raising activities
• Social network of youth from around the globe who can assist in the growth and international support of WYMD

What do you envision for the future of the WYMD?

During our WYMD workshop meeting in Jakarta 2010, I was truly honored and impressed to be part of a dynamic network full of promising youth where democracy is not just a goal but way of life. One could literally feel the floating energy, potential and youth cooperation in the room with full passion for change. My vision for the future of WYMD is to support current members with information and solidarity as well as reach out for more youth around the world to build a network that keeps multiplying with every member.