Diriyah Hosts 'Misk Global Forum' in Bujairi Terrace

One of the forum’s key activities is the “Leaders Diwan" - SPA
One of the forum’s key activities is the “Leaders Diwan" - SPA
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Diriyah Hosts 'Misk Global Forum' in Bujairi Terrace

One of the forum’s key activities is the “Leaders Diwan" - SPA
One of the forum’s key activities is the “Leaders Diwan" - SPA

Misk Global Forum (MGF), one of the world’s largest youth forums, kicked off this week in Bujairi Terrace, the Kingdom’s premium dining district located in Diriyah, the City of Earth. The seventh annual MGF is being held under the theme “The Big Now.”

Throughout the three-day event, nearly 120 esteemed speakers will engage in more than 100 sessions that aim to inspire youth to think ambitiously, act decisively, and channel their energies into turning innovative ideas into impactful global solutions, SPA reported.

The sessions will cover key topics including climate action, sustainability, innovation, leadership, educational transformation, digital innovation, sports and games, mental health, diversity, and cultural identity.

One of the forum’s key activities is the “Leaders Diwan,” where attendees can learn from the expertise of leaders and decision makers in various fields. MGF's main stage sessions will connect youth with acclaimed local and global innovators and industry experts creating a platform for meaningful interactions and collaboration.

Diriyah Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo, who shared his lessons in leadership during a session entitled “From Brooklyn to Bujairi Terrace,” said, “The Misk Global Forum brings together leaders in pursuit of one common goal -- the empowerment of youth. As the leaders of tomorrow, they will one day continue the incredible progress that Vision 2030 and Saudi Arabia’s transformation are achieving. I cannot think of a better place to host such an important and life-changing forum than in Diriyah, the City of Earth and the birthplace of the Kingdom, and we look forward to seeing the incredible contributions that all of these young people will go on to make”.

Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) is a strategic partner to the forum for the second consecutive year. Its endorsement aims to further its work to motivate and inspire young people to engage in Saudi Arabia’s national transformation and to develop their skills and opportunities in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.



Saudi Film Forum: Cinema Beyond the Screen

The forum’s first session hosted Prince Turki Al-Faisal.
The forum’s first session hosted Prince Turki Al-Faisal.
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Saudi Film Forum: Cinema Beyond the Screen

The forum’s first session hosted Prince Turki Al-Faisal.
The forum’s first session hosted Prince Turki Al-Faisal.

“Where cinema transcends the screen,” marked the opening of the Saudi Film Forum, which began on Wednesday evening in Riyadh.
The event attracted a large audience of filmmakers from around the globe, including American actor and producer Will Smith, this year’s special guest.
During the opening, Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan said : “Through the Saudi Film Forum, we are starting a new era that goes beyond creativity... toward a fully integrated film industry that connects us culturally and economically with the world.”
The first session featured Prince Turki Al-Faisal, Chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies, who spoke about the important role of films in bridging cultures.
He recalled how, nearly 50 years ago, the introduction of film on television helped Saudi society connect with the world and allowed others to understand Saudi culture.
Prince Turki Al-Faisal’s Experience
During the session, moderator Faisal Abbas, Editor-in-Chief of Arab News, asked Prince Turki, “If you had a magic wand to choose a film about the Kingdom to produce, what would it be?”
The prince replied : “That’s a tough question. From my experience in producing films, some have had a significant impact on how people view the Kingdom and Islam, as well as what Saudi Arabia represents.”
He recalled the first Saudi-funded film, made nearly 20 years ago about the Arab historian Ibn Battuta, which was similar to a documentary. He noted that another film about the Hajj was produced that same year, and both were shown worldwide.
“My favorite film is ‘Born a King,’ which I co-produced,” Prince Turki shared.
“It tells the story of King Faisal's first journey abroad at age 13, commissioned by King Abdulaziz. I believe it was one of the first narrative films shot in the Kingdom with Saudi actors,” he added.
On Arab cinema, he said : “Many Arab films I've seen tend to be quite gloomy in terms of visuals and storytelling, which makes me reluctant to watch them.”
He stressed that films should aim to bring joy to viewers rather than leave them feeling sad or distressed.