Gheida Abdala Omar, a young African innovator and mentor, is taking her passion for technology and social impact to a global stage. She has been selected as a Fully-Funded Delegate for the NextGen2030 | Youth and AI Summit in Riyadh 2025, an honor she described as “truly humbling” given the competition from hundreds of talented young leaders and AI enthusiasts worldwide. “I can’t wait to connect with global changemakers, share my journey and contribute to meaningful discussions on AI and youth leadership,” she said.
This summit offers Gheida an opportunity not only to learn from some of the world’s most inspiring innovators but also to represent Girls I Save Africa, the platform she founded to empower young girls across the continent through education, mentorship and exposure to technology. “I am especially motivated to bring my experiences to the table and collaborate on solutions that make a real difference,” she added, emphasizing her commitment to using technology for community impact.
In addition to her participation in NextGen2030, Gheida has recently been appointed as a mentor with Women Tech Mentors Kenya. This role reflects her ongoing dedication to nurturing the next generation of innovators. “Mentorship is a powerful tool to unlock potential, provide guidance and inspire the next generation of change-makers,” she said. Through this platform, she aims to support, empower and walk alongside young people as they explore the world of technology and discover the impact they can create.
Gheida’s work is firmly rooted in the belief that more young people, especially girls should have access to STEM education and opportunities. Her initiatives are designed to create a positive ripple effect: from empowering girls to enter technology fields to influencing broader societal change. “Let’s continue shaping a future where more young people have the knowledge, tools and confidence to thrive in STEM,” she urges, highlighting the long-term vision behind her work.
Her accomplishments and recognitions underscore the tangible impact of her efforts. Gheida is a Microsoft Imagine Cup Finalist 2025, a Presidential Innovation Award Winner 2025 and recipient of the Innovation for Social Change Award 2025. She also serves on the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Committee and is an alumna of the Aspire Leaders Program and Young Scientist Kenya. In 2023, she was recognized as a Cyber Fellow and was awarded the Rising Star Pwani Women Award, reflecting her consistent contributions to technology, innovation and social change.
Through Girls I Save Africa, Gheida has created a platform that empowers young girls to envision careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The initiative provides mentorship, guidance and practical skills that help girls navigate the challenges of pursuing STEM education in contexts where resources and opportunities are often limited. Her approach combines inspiration with actionable support, ensuring that participants can translate learning into real-world impact.
Gheida’s approach to mentorship and leadership is hands-on. She engages with young people directly, encouraging them to experiment with technology, pursue creative problem-solving and understand how innovation can address pressing social challenges. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: every girl who gains knowledge and confidence in STEM has the potential to change her community. “Technology is not just about coding or engineering,” she explains, “it is about using our skills to create solutions that improve lives.”
Her involvement in global forums such as NextGen2030 will amplify this message. By joining discussions on AI and youth leadership, Gheida aims to highlight the role of young innovators in shaping the future of technology, policy and social change. The experience will also allow her to exchange ideas with peers, forge collaborations and bring new strategies back to Africa to strengthen initiatives like Girls I Save Africa and her mentorship programs.
In every initiative she undertakes, Gheida blends passion with purpose. She is defined not only by her awards and recognitions but by her commitment to fostering an inclusive ecosystem where young people, especially girls, can succeed in STEM fields. Through mentorship, advocacy and innovation, Gheida Abdala Omar is building a legacy of empowerment and social impact that extends far beyond her own achievements.
By empowering youth, driving AI conversations and mentoring the next generation of innovators, Gheida is creating a future where technology serves communities, strengthens economies and provides equal opportunities for all. Her journey illustrates the power of leadership and dedication in transforming lives and inspiring a new generation of African changemakers.
