TakingITGlobal

6 7 Dear Reader, We are delighted to share inspiring examples of how young leaders in the Arab world are developing their communities with the power of their imagination, hope for the future, willingness to learn and commitment to having an impact. During the time I shared with our Youth for Change Phase 4 project winners who gathered in Alexandria, Egypt for the Closing Ceremony in December of 2016, I was truly amazed by the progress and results of each project along with the passion and resourcefulness of each young leader. In my own journey as a social entrepreneur, I know how it feels when my ideas are shut down by people who can only see constraints and limitations. I have also had the joy of experiencing moments of incredible growth when people in positions of influence took the time to listen to my ideas, and offer their experience and words of encouragement. It is important to cultivate the mindset of possibility thinking in order to advance. The Youth for Change program plays a critical role in nurturing and harnessing the creative potential of youth as innovators and community builders. When we consider the role of youth in driving the progress of any society, it is essential to ensure that we create spaces for the free flow and exchange of ideas that can truly empower communities to thrive. As a partner in this program, TakingITGlobal is grateful for the opportunity to offer support, knowledge and experiences. On behalf of our team, I would like to express our appreciation to the Library of Alexandria for collaborating with us on this effort and extend my sincere thanks to Dr. Ismail Serageldin for being such a visionary and champion of youth. As you flip through these pages, you will gain a glimpse of the talent that is evident among all our winners in this fourth phase. Each and every single one of the 26 winners demonstrated diligence, willingness to learn, and commitment to piloting their ICT projects that initially began as simple ideas. The diversity of themes among the projects is a symbol of the different needs in the Arab world and how youth are taking it upon themselves to respond to such needs. The winners can be proud of themselves, as their efforts are contributing to a more peaceful, sustainable, and developed Arab region. We hope that the stories in this publication inspire you to challenge yourself to transform your ideas into entrepreneurial action, and address a need in your community just like these winners did. Jennifer Corriero Sincerely, L e t t er from Jennif er C orriero E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r , T a k i n g I T G l o b a l . 2016 . . . TakingITGlobal . . 26 . . TakingITGlobal . . 26 T a k i n g I T G l o b a l

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