Diriyah Co. CEO lauds Saudi efforts to empower youth

Jerry Inzerillo, group CEO of Diriyah Co., addressed young Saudis, urging them to dream big and sharing insights from his own journey.
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Updated 29 February 2024
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Diriyah Co. CEO lauds Saudi efforts to empower youth

RIYADH: Leadership and empowerment insights took center stage during a workshop at the Human Capability Initiative, with industry leaders delving into the future of Saudi Arabia’s workforce. 

In a “What If?” talk at the Riyadh event, Jerry Inzerillo, group CEO of Diriyah Co., addressed young Saudis, urging them to dream big and sharing insights from his own journey. 

He said: “Please dream big. There was nothing in between you and your dreams that you cannot accomplish.”  

Inzerillo emphasized the importance of self-esteem and dignity in leadership, signaling a departure from traditional hierarchical models toward more inclusive and empowering approaches. 

Praising the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Inzerillo expressed gratitude for the unprecedented support provided to initiatives like the Human Capability Initiative.  

Inzerillo commended the substantial investment in training and development facilitated by the crown prince, highlighting its significance in equipping the next generation with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of an ever-evolving technological landscape.  

“In a 50-year career, I’ve never had the training and development budget that the crown prince has given us,” he remarked. 

“We are marching forward to 2030; we are marching positively. We believe in ourselves and those who will help us on our mission.”  

Inzerillo said that as of yesterday, they had 2,419 employees, with 85 percent of the staff being Saudi. 

“Now, 39 percent of our Saudi staff are women superstars. And those 39 percent of my Saudi women superstars boss me around on a daily basis more than the 61 percent of the boys.”  

The CEO shared his impressions of the young Saudi talent present at the event and said: “In New York, we have a saying, when you’re very excited, you have goosebumps. That’s the way I feel right now. Because just being backstage for a moment, and seeing all of the young talented Saudis, to me it’s like a thunderbolt of energy.” 

Inzerillo concluded with a resounding call to action, reminding every individual of their potential to contribute to the realization of Vision 2030. “Every single individual is capable of contributing to Vision 2030 and should.”  


Qatar, Brookfield launch $20bn AI infrastructure venture 

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Qatar, Brookfield launch $20bn AI infrastructure venture 

JEDDAH: Qatar has partnered with Canada’s Brookfield to establish a $20 billion joint venture aimed at building advanced artificial intelligence infrastructure and positioning the Gulf state as a regional hub for next-generation computing. 

The venture, involving Qai — a subsidiary of Qatar Investment Authority — will invest in domestic and select international markets, the companies said in a statement. 

Under the partnership, the companies will provide capital and operational expertise to develop AI infrastructure in Qatar, including fully integrated AI facilities, supporting the country’s rapidly growing digital and AI ecosystem. 

Qatar has been steadily developing its AI ecosystem as part of its broader digital transformation and economic diversification strategy under the Qatar National Vision 2030. 

In February 2024, the country launched its Digital Agenda 2030 to position itself as a regional hub for AI and advanced digital technologies, creating an enabling environment for large-scale projects, research, and strategic investment. 

Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA, said: “QIA has been at the forefront of driving advancement though our AI investments. This joint venture is testament to QIA’s commitment to delivering both local and global impact.” 

He added: “Leveraging on the long-term partnership we have with Brookfield, this JV will advance Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and help build a diversified, innovation-based economy for future generations.” 

Among the plans is an Integrated Compute Center which will widen regional access to high-performance computing and support the rollout of trusted AI technologies across key sectors.

 Brookfield plans to invest through its recently launched Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Fund, with the Qai partnership forming a key part of a broader global AI infrastructure program that aims to mobilize up to $100 billion worldwide. 

“We are thrilled to assist Qatar in establishing this investment in next generation AI and digital infrastructure alongside Qai. As our inaugural AI infrastructure investment in the Middle East, this partnership combines Qatar’s strategic vision with Brookfield’s global expertise in developing and operating large-scale, mission-critical infrastructure with global partners,” said Bruce Flatt, CEO of Brookfield. 

He added: “Together, we look forward to building an integrated AI ecosystem that will accelerate innovation, deepen regional capability, and support the responsible deployment of advanced AI technologies across the Middle East.” 

Abdulla Al-Misnad, chairman of Qai, said the partnership with Brookfield represents a key milestone in Qatar’s journey to develop world-class AI infrastructure and capabilities. 

“By leveraging Brookfield’s expertise in developing and managing critical infrastructure alongside Qais’ mission to deliver trusted AI solutions, we are creating a robust platform to drive responsible AI adoption,” he added. 

Al-Misnad further emphasized that the collaboration would attract investment and top-tier talent while reinforcing Qatar’s position as a trusted hub for advanced digital technologies regionally and globally.