In an era defined by transformation, how do we ensure that the legacy we build today becomes the springboard for tomorrow’s leaders, not just a milestone, but a movement that shapes the nation’s future? Sustaining growth will always be imperative, yet the real measure of long-term success lies in how well we prepare our strategies, infrastructure, and most importantly, our rising generation of leaders to carry this transformation forward with clarity and conviction.
That focus on enablement and aspiration is clearly embedded across the national agenda. The launch of Skills Week in July 2025, alongside the rollout of the Sector Skills Framework and the expansion of the Waad training initiative, reflects a sustained commitment to capability-building across priority sectors. Similarly, the introduction of AI education into all public schools represents more than just an educational milestone, it signals a clear national mission to equip the next generation of leaders with the skills and capabilities needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman once noted, “All success stories start with a vision, and successful visions are based on strong pillars.” This is a direct expression of that principle — building on the Kingdom’s most precious asset: our youth.
Not long ago, the conversations we take for granted today about growth, innovation, and generational leadership were only beginning to surface. Progress felt within reach, but not yet within sight. The pace of change we now witness every day would have been hard to imagine just a decade ago. And yet, here we are. What was once an aspiration has become reality, not simply through policymaking or strategy, but through our people. Families, educators, mentors, and leaders have all helped shape a generation that now carries the confidence to lead. On this National Day, it is worth remembering that our transformation has not only been fast, it has also been personal, rooted in human stories and a shared belief in what we can achieve together.
Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed a generational shift unlike anything before it. What was once seen as potential is now visible in the leadership, creativity, and determination of young Saudis, not only in government halls or corporate offices, but in start-ups, community ventures, research labs, and public spaces across the Kingdom. These gains didn’t happen overnight. They were built over years of intentional investment, cultural openness, and collective effort.
Today, organisations are adapting to that rapid transformation, driven by evolving technology, shifting expectations, and cultural change. Yet the fundamental question is no longer whether we can respond to these shifts, but whether we are preparing the next generation of leaders to carry the torch of change. Organisations that lack leadership continuity and cross-generational alignment may face challenges in sustaining long-term relevance, especially in sectors at the heart of national transformation.
In an increasingly interconnected national and global market, having a vibrant mission and an enabling environment is essential to attracting and retaining the next wave of talent. Youth today are deeply engaged in the national agenda and inspired to take the lead in shaping our collective vision. At the same time, attracting and retaining talent has become more complex than ever. Offering competitive salaries or benefits is no longer the sole motivation for joining or staying in an organisation. Young leaders have redefined the traditional meaning of employment, they now see themselves as catalysts, innovators, and intrapreneurs within their organisations.
As we reflect on our progress, a pivotal question emerges: are we truly equipping the next generation with the vision, resources, and mentorship they need, not just to sustain our ambitions, but to surpass them? The answer to this question will define how seamlessly today’s achievements become the foundation for tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
Vision 2030 has shown the world the power of bold ambition. Sustaining that ambition across strategies, sectors, and leadership depends on how well we plan for what lies ahead. Our momentum today is not only about building quickly, it is about building with clarity, continuity, and purpose. This is where investing in future talent becomes not just a priority, but a national calling: to inspire a generation that dreams fearlessly, leads with integrity, and transforms today’s vision into tomorrow’s reality.
