EO MEPA YEAR BOOK FY2026/2027
CONTENT Credits Chief Editor Message Outgoing Board FY25/26 MEPA Regional Highlights What Have The Chapters Been Up To? • EO Bahrain • EO Cape Town • EO Cairo • EO Dubai • EO Durban • EO Islamabad • EO Jeddah • EO Johannesburg • EO Jordan • EO Karachi • EO Lahore • EO Lebanon • EO MEPA Bridge • EO Oman • EO Riyadh • EO Saudi East • EO Tanzania • EO Uganda Incoming Board FY26/27 Upcoming Events
CREDITS CHIEF EDITOR
Osama Al Saif
MANAGING EDITOR
Latanya Burgher CONCIERGE
Charie Tan
DELIVERY ASSOCIATE
Yrene Cloefe Dimla COPY EDITOR
Angela Kelly
COPY EDITOR
Ashleigh Easthorpe GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Krystin Morgenrood
PUBLISHER & DISTRIBUTOR
The Word Architect
Outgoing Editor’s Message OSAMA AI SAIF Regional Marketing & Communications Expert 2025/2026 To all Communications Chairs across the MEPA Region, thank you. It has been a real privilege serving you this year. This has not been an easy season. Creating content, shaping narratives, and consistently putting your chapters out into the world takes effort, creativity, and persistence, especially when circumstances are challenging. And yet, you showed up. You pushed through, you built, you shared, and you raised the standard of communications across the region in a meaningful way. That effort has not gone unnoticed. What you’ve achieved is not just visible in the content you’ve produced, but in the consistency, pride, and commitment behind it. You’ve moved the bar higher this year, and that matters. Thank you for your time, your energy, and your dedication. As we look ahead, I am also pleased to introduce our new Marketing and Communications Expert for the MEPA Region, Mr. Hasan Fadlallah. Hasan is a serial entrepreneur and the Founder & CEO of Brand Lounge, the region’s leading and award-winning branding consultancy. Through Brand Lounge, he has helped organisations align their business behind powerful ideas that deliver sustained success. He is also the Co-Founder & Director of Fullmoon Experiments, a socially driven incubator focused on developing and growing
purposeful startups across the region. Fullmoon Experiments embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in driving progress across the Arab world by empowering communities, spreading knowledge, and nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation. Originally from Lebanon, Hasan has been based in the Gulf since “Sheikh Zayed Road was still a camel track” - almost. He began his career in communications with D’Arcy and Publicis, before partnering in 2006 with Jack Trout, widely known as the father of Differentiation, to establish Brand Lounge and introduce international brand development thinking to the region. With over 20 years of consulting experience, Hasan now advises organisations across the Gulf and Africa on brand development. In 2014, he was recognised by the World Brand Congress with the prestigious Brand Leadership Award in Brand Excellence. Hasan is a graduate of the Lebanese American University in Beirut, where he earned a degree in Business Marketing. We are excited for the experience, perspective, and energy he brings to the region, and we look forward to the journey ahead. Osama Al Saif
Thank You to FY2025/2026 Board
MEPA Regional Update ABDULLAH ALARJI EO MEPA Regional Chair (2025–2027)
Leading with Impact
A Reflection on Our Shared Journey MEPA Year-End Review Dear MEPA Family, Peers, and Visionary Leaders,
our chapters, we didn’t just meet goals; we redefined what is possible in our region.
Seven years ago, when I first joined the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, I quickly learned that EO’s true magic doesn’t come from a central entity; it is built from the ground up by the passion, grit, and countless hours poured in by our volunteer leaders.
We celebrated a landmark achievement this year, surpassing 1,400 unique members across the MEPA region. Both EO Cape Town and EO Dubai reached Mega Chapter status, while EO Karachi and EO Lahore continue to grow rapidly and are well on their way to joining them. At the same time, we invested in the future of our community by expanding our Accelerator network to 170 members and laying the groundwork for the launch of EO Qatar.
When I stepped into the role of your MEPA Regional Chair for the 2025–2027 term, I recognised that, as a diverse community united by a shared purpose, we carry a proud responsibility to serve. As we reach the end of this fiscal year in June, I look back on what we have accomplished across the Middle East, Pakistan, and Africa with deep gratitude. Together, we have remained steady, built bridges, and unlocked unprecedented growth. This has not just been a year of tracking metrics; it has been a year of setting up benchmarks. Through your unwavering commitment across
Despite regional challenges, our community maintained a strong presence in the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA). Achieving the highest global participation rate of 90% for the second year in a row. First time in MEPA that the $10,000 regional subsidy program for GSEA has rolled out, and it is taking our regional quarterfinals to Cape Town this July to deliver a world-class experience.
Through experience, we focused heavily on member retention. From launching the “We Are With You” series in times of crisis to rolling out data-driven Member Engagement dashboards to formulate chapter plans. Our teams have prepared toolkits for Communications and branding, Finance, GSEA, Accelerator, and Path of Leadership. Our MyEO footprint exploded with 133 events held this year, up from 77 last year, successfully re-engaging our highly valued tenured members. Our commitment to the Forum is evident in our high participation in health surveys, which ranks 4th globally. Forty-one of our Moderators have stepped up to seed new, high-quality Forums for members and SLPs. Making MEPA the second-largest globally in terms of the number of certified Seed Moderators. In Learning, we delivered more than 200 events with ratings consistently trending above 9.0, proving once again that peer-to-peer connection and cross-chapter collaboration remain our highest-value currency. This year, we successfully delivered our Executive Education program with AUB in Jordan, bringing together entrepreneurs from across the region for a world-class learning experience. This milestone reinforced MEPA’s commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities that challenge thinking, broaden perspectives, and equip our members with the insights and tools needed to lead and grow in an increasingly complex world. One of our greatest strengths remains our ability to bring entrepreneurs together beyond chapter borders. Through initiatives and experiences such as Spark, Ignite, Executive Education, GSEA, Moderator Summit, Presidents’ Meetings, MEPA Leadership Summits, and Unleashed, we created meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, collaboration, and shared growth.
These experiences strengthened relationships across the region, fostered deeper engagement, and reminded us that some of the greatest value of EO comes from the connections we build with one another. We shattered our Path of Leadership goals for Tier 2 and Tier 3 positions, securing the highest number of applications globally. Crucially, we captured the stories of 30 remarkable women leaders across MEPA, creating an intentional roadmap for inclusive leadership and helping build a stronger pipeline for future leaders. THE ROAD TO 2027: Halfway Through Our Vision What makes these achievements so profound is that they were executed with discipline, accountability, and excellence. We operated tightly within our global budget allocations, ensuring that every dollar requested was channelled directly into growth, transformation, leadership development, and member value. From the 100% adoption of our Traffic Light Indication System to the incredible turnout at our Chapter Manager Workshop in Sri Lanka, the operational health of our region has never been stronger. None of these achievements happens in isolation. I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to our global staff, regional staff, MSC team, and Chapter Managers across MEPA. While our volunteer leaders are the driving force behind our success, none of these accomplishments would have been possible without the dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts of the people working behind the scenes every day. Thank you for your commitment to our members, your partnership with our volunteer leaders, and your unwavering belief in EO’s mission. As we transition into the second half of this two-year journey, I want to thank every Chapter President, Board Member, Regional Council
Director, Expert, Chapter Manager, Staff, and volunteer peer. You are the heartbeat of MEPA. We have proven that geographic distances and regional complexities are nothing compared to the alignment of our purpose. Let us carry this powerful momentum forward into the next year, continuing to learn, connect, scale, and
lead with impact. With profound gratitude and unity, Abdullah Alarji EO MEPA Regional Chair (2025–2027)
MEPA Regional Highlights EO offers a wide range of regional and sub-regional events designed to inspire, connect, and transform.
From learning experiences that sharpen your leadership skills, to cultural immersions that broaden your perspective, to networking opportunities that spark lifelong friendships and business growth, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to participate and make the most of these unique opportunities. Every event you attend is an opportunity to expand your horizons, strengthen your EO community, and gain insights that move your world forward. Supporting MEPA regional events, whether
by attending, serving, or becoming a partner, is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our community and elevate our region. Your involvement not only enriches the experiences of fellow members but also highlights MEPA’s energy, innovation, and leadership to the entire EO community worldwide. By stepping in, you help us amplify our voice, showcase the depth of our entrepreneurial spirit, and position MEPA as a region that leads with vision and impact on the global stage.
1. EMEA & South Asia Presidents’ Meeting In Colombo, Sri Lanka Chapter Presidents across EO MEPA do not simply hold a title, they hold trust. Our members have chosen EO. They invest their time. They invest their vulnerability. They invest their growth journey. And that’s why we believe in sharpening the edge of leadership at our annual EMEA and South Asia Presidents’ Meeting. When we commit to strategic clarity in how we lead our chapters, operational excellence in how we execute and peer accountability in how we support one another. We elevate the entire platform. Every agenda we prepare, every board alignment conversation we have, and every tough decision we navigate reflects how much we value our members. Because valuing members is not just = great events. It includes governance, stewardship,
and the protection of the culture of trust that makes EO extraordinary. To our EO MEPA Presidents and Boards: thank you for leaning in. For preparing and for showing up fully. When we lead well, the entire region rises. And the future belongs to leaders who treat responsibility as a privilege.
2. EMEA Moderator Summit Istanbul This year, EO members and leaders from across the EMEA region came together in Istanbul for the EMEA Moderator Summit. It was an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and strengthen the practices that support our Forums and member experience across the region. Moderators engaged in focused conversations on leadership, facilitation, and the continued evolution of EO’s Forum experience - grounded in trust, respect, and confidentiality. Across sessions and peer exchanges, one theme was clear: when we invest in our moderators, we strengthen the foundation of our entire community. The knowledge shared in Istanbul will continue to shape how we learn, lead, and grow together across EMEA. Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, perspective, and commitment to the EO community. We look forward to building on this momentum in the months ahead.
3. EO Ignite Cape Town EO Ignite is EO South Africa’s flagship conference, rotating between the three South African chapters each year, and in 2026 it was hosted in the heart of the Cape Winelands at Franschhoek Cellar, offering a world-class setting for three days of inspiration, connection, and unforgettable experiences, where entrepreneurs from across the EO community came together for a curated programme of powerful talks, empowering connections, and moments that stayed with participants long after they left; featuring standout international speakers including Harris The Third and Candice Mama, alongside powerful MYEO experiences that added depth, reflection, and personal connection throughout the event, EO Ignite Cape Town 2026 blended insight, storytelling, and shared entrepreneurial experience in a way that strengthened relationships across chapters and reinforced the power of entrepreneurs coming together in a trusted, growth-focused community.
4. Global Leadership Conference Dublin The Global Leadership Conference (GLC) is Entrepreneurs’ Organization’s (EO) largest member gathering, bringing together those who serve on Chapter Boards and in regional or global roles within the Path of Leadership.
5. Spark Summit From 5 - 7 May 2026, EO Jeddah hosted the EO Spark Summit under the theme SPARK: Mind, Body & Soul, bringing together entrepreneurs for a focused experience of connection, learning, and holistic leadership development. The summit reflected EO’s commitment to supporting the whole entrepreneur, creating space for members to strengthen intellectual insight, physical well-being, and emotional awareness. Aligned with the broader direction of Saudi Vision 2030, the event contributed to a growing ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation in the region, while staying true to EO’s global purpose to move the world forward by unlocking the full potential of entrepreneurs.
6. MEPA Unleashed Tunisia MEPA Unleashed in Tunisia brought together nearly 150 EO members for two days of learning, connection, and shared experiences. While inspiring sessions from David Rendall and Gina Mollicone-Long challenged members to rethink strengths, intuition, and personal growth, it was the conversations beyond the stage that truly defined the experience. From breakfast discussions and bus rides to morning runs and late-night reflections, members strengthened trusted relationships, exchanged diverse perspectives, and reminded one another that entrepreneurship is not meant to be a solo journey. MEPA Unleashed was a celebration of the people who make this community extraordinary, proving once again that our greatest value lies not only in what we learn, but in the connections we build, the experiences we share, and the way we grow together.
7. MEPA Leadership Summit Tunisia Before MEPA Unleashed, chapter leaders from across the region came together in Tunisia for the MEPA Leadership Summit - an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and strengthen the leadership that drives our region forward. Through open dialogue, shared experiences, and practical discussions, leaders exchanged ideas, tackled common challenges, and explored new ways to create impact for their chapters and members. The Summit reinforced the power of learning from one another and the collective responsibility we share in shaping a stronger, more connected EO MEPA community. Together, we are building the future of leadership across our region.
New Chapter
EO Qatar
What Have The Chapters Been Up To? We asked each chapter to tell us about:
1
Their Retreat or beginning-of-the-year dinner
2
Their Top 3 events of the year
3
A few achievements and highlights from their members and the chapter as a whole
Submissions included in this yearbook were received from the chapters via the allocated form. If your chapter is not listed here, no submission was recorded.
Top 3 Events 1. Economic Outlook with Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine One of the year’s most impactful learning experiences was the Economic Outlook session with Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine. Members gained valuable insights into global market shifts, regional economic dynamics, and emerging opportunities shaping the future business landscape. Dr. Jarmo’s ability to translate complex economic trends into practical business perspectives equipped entrepreneurs with greater confidence to navigate uncertainty and make informed strategic decisions for the years ahead.
2. AI Workshop with Yasir Bucha As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, EO Bahrain brought members together for an engaging AI Workshop with Yasir Bucha. The session explored the rapidly evolving AI landscape and provided practical insights into how entrepreneurs can leverage emerging technologies to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and future-proof their businesses. The workshop sparked meaningful conversations around the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in today’s business environment.
3. Turn Conflict into Success with Michael Portz EO Bahrain members experienced a highly interactive leadership session with Michael Portz, focused on transforming conflict into opportunity. Through practical frameworks and psychological tools, participants learned how to navigate difficult conversations, build trust, and strengthen human connection within their teams and organizations. The session delivered powerful takeaways that entrepreneurs could immediately apply to enhance leadership effectiveness and create healthier, more productive business relationships.
Achievements/Highlights PRESS PLAY
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner From the moment we touched down in Salalah for our chapter retreat, the experience unfolded into a blend of adventure, culture, and connection. Starting with beachfront relaxation and learning sessions, then diving into the soul of the city through plantations, souks scented with frankincense, and landmarks. The highlight was a treasure hunt in Wadi Darbat, where teams navigated valleys, solved riddles, and bonded through shared challenges, followed by a journey through mountain plateaus, baobab sanctuaries, and sand dunes, all culminating in sunsets and Omani feasts overlooking the ocean. The adventures made this retreat not just a trip, but a journey filled with discovery, energy, and memories that will last forever.
Top 3 Events 1. GSE Awards Egypt’s round of the EO Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) gathered top student startups. Ten finalists advanced to final pitches. Lothgha won first place, earning the chance to represent Egypt at the EO GSEA Regional Finals, reflecting Egypt’s student entrepreneurship ecosystem. The ceremony took place during EO Cairo’s second EO Accelerator Learning Day, giving winners visibility among accelerator participants. 2. EOA Learning Day This year EO Accelerator (EOA) Cairo launched, supporting early-stage entrepreneurs. It began with seven founders on its first Learning Day, growing to ten by the second, showing strong momentum. The program is building a structured ecosystem to help entrepreneurs scale effectively. 3. We Are With You Series EO Cairo hosted His Excellency Professor Mahmoud Mohieldin at The St. Regis Cairo as part of the We Are With You series. He spoke on the geopolitical shifts in the Middle East and their economic impact on the region.
Achievements/Highlights This year, our chapter was shaped by the moments that brought members closer together. Members showed up for each other in meaningful ways, through honest forum conversations, personal challenges, and major life transitions. The community continued to be a space where members could speak openly, be challenged, and feel understood beyond surface-level interactions. Our calendar reflected that same energy. From intimate, off-the-record learning sessions to larger gatherings that sparked real connection, members leaned into experiences built on trust and openness. Fireside chats, retreats, and curated dinners created space for conversations that mattered. We also saw stronger engagement across Forums, with members going deeper and showing up more consistently. Outside of formal programming, it was often the informal moments that stood out most including spontaneous meetups, shared experiences, and the kind of support that happens quietly but consistently.
Year Overview The year was well-programmed, with a mix of in-person and forum-based experiences that gave members multiple ways to engage. Consistency was a theme, both in attendance and in the quality of conversations happening across the chapter. Overall, the chapter continues to grow into a more connected, grounded, and genuinely supportive community, one where members don’t just attend, but truly engage.
EO Ignite 2026: Ignite the ExtraOrdinary EO Ignite 2026 brought together more than 250 attendees from across the MEPA region in the picturesque town of Franschhoek for three days of inspiration, connection, and growth. Under the theme “Ignite the ExtraOrdinary,” attendees experienced world-class speakers, engaging TED-style talks, networking opportunities, and memorable shared experiences. As Regional Director Roselyn Muchiri reflected, the experience was “inspiring, emotional, thought-provoking, and, in many ways, life-changing.” Ignite 2026 left participants energised, grateful, and reminded of the ExtraOrdinary power of the EO community. Kerina Govender, IGNITE Committee Lead, expresses what is at the heart of the EO servant leadership experience: “I joined the Ignite team to contribute. Instead, I leave with new friendships, new lessons, a broader perspective, and a deeper appreciation for the power of this community. That’s the thing about EO. The return is rarely what you expect, but it’s almost always greater than what you put in.” First-time attendee Brett Wener says, “Experiencing Ignite was one of the most real, authentic experiences I can recall. The human connections and stories of perseverance, successes, failures and vulnerability were extraordinary. I have learnt so much. I feel like my value extraction was immeasurable, and my personal growth was in overdrive. Presently, I feel like I can change the world.”
While a tenured member from Tanzania, Miranda Naiman, explains why EO members keep coming back. “Ten years into EO, and the #Thirst4Learning remains as strong as ever. Grateful to EO Cape Town for hosting an unforgettable Ignite and to fellow members who continue to inspire, challenge, and support one another.” We are looking forward to our next IGNITE event in Johannesburg 2027.
Our Year In Highlights 1. AI Empowered The future belongs to those who lean into change and equip themselves with the tools to thrive. At AI Empowered South Africa, inspired by EO Cape Town, our community did exactly that stepping into the conversation around artificial intelligence not with fear, but with curiosity, courage, and creativity. It was a sold-out event of more than 700 attendees, including: • 60+ EO members who came together to learn and connect • 13 EO members who shared their insights from the stage • 4 EO businesses who showcased their ingenuity and offerings A huge thank you to EO Cape Town Member Learning Chair, Manuela Dias De Deus, from One Eyed Jack SA, all the incredible speakers, and our partner businesses who made this event AI-MAZING.
2. Women of EO Portrait Experience The Women of EO Portrait Experience at Trovato House, the heritage homestead of EO Member Gus van der Spek, was nothing short of breathtaking. An unforgettable morning filled with connection, courage, celebration and community. From women stepping out of their comfort zones to laughter behind the scenes, from heartfelt conversations to beautifully curated details… every moment reflected the strength and authenticity of the Women of EO community. More than a portrait session, it was an experience - a space where women felt seen, celebrated and supported. A morning that blended elegance, vulnerability, confidence and connection. Definitely one to be repeated. Thank you to Kerina Govender, our Marketing & Communications Chair, for conceptualising and championing.
3. Family Day The weather gods smiled on us with a wind-free Sunday as huge clouds of bubbles floated through the air at Silvermist Estate in Constantia for our Family Day. It was a proud EO day at the venue, thanks to our EO members Warren Lieberman from Drumstruck, Andrea Foulkes and her team at Dish Social Catering, drinks by Clyde Ackerman from Thirst, and our merchandise pop-up store by Dustin Botha from LUKS. Toddlers & tweens giggled in their groups. Artisanal ice cream from Unframed was enjoyed by grown-ups and children alike. It was a magical day where, no matter your age, you were jiving to the sounds of the Drumstuck team or DJ Raeven. Pizzas were topped, meats were smoked, and gingerbread people were decorated. If you were lucky, you snagged yourself a family portrait by Dani Doodles and a bejewelled face paint by Abdullah. And the slip ’n slide was a particular highlight! The youngsters managed to tear themselves away from the slide, ball pond, and jumping castle to play some great games. Members watched on as the next generation made connections, the connections we value most as EOers.
THE QUOTES SAY IT ALL: “The family day was such a hit with the whole family. A fun and seriously elevated experience! Made me proud to be an EO member.” Ingram Casey
“The Family Day is one of the highlights of the EO calendar, and they outdid themselves. Nothing better than catching up with your EO & EOA friends, letting the kids run wild, enjoying amazing food and entertainment, and going home feeling very grateful.” Shannon Brauer
“My kids are a handful... so 10 out of 10 for the team, the boys were playing and slipping and sliding and ballsporting and ice creaming the whole day and had a blast, so did my wife and I. First class all the way.” PG Geldenhuys
“The venue and food were incredible, and the vibe was exactly what was needed for a wonderful end of the year.” Gaynor MacArthur
Achievements/Highlights Increased membership from 148 to 192 members during FY2025/2026. Delivered more than 48 engagement and learning events with an average member rating of 9/10. Hosted a record-breaking 51 MyEO events . Our globally recognised Accelerator programme expanded this year, welcoming 24 new participants and graduating 10 into EO. Our much-respected 2iC programme, representing 24 participants, delivered value to 14 EO and 10 EOA businesses. Secured R2.1 million in EO Global subsidies. Increased Strategic Alliance Partner in-kind and cash contributions to R1 million. Added 2 new SLP forums, growing the community to 37 forum-trained SLPs and 74 members in the SLP network. Successfully delivered the GSEA programme, engaging more than 80 student entrepreneurs and advancing the Cape Town winner to the regional competition Hosted 6 in-person Forum training sessions with Cape Town Trainer Kolja Sturmer. Hosted EO Trainer Amy Kastronova for FNL in March, including 7 in-person workshops. We sent 8 board members to MLS/Unleashed in Tunisia. 12 incoming board members attended GLC Dublin in April 2026. Recognised Jo Grace as EO MEPA Staff Member of the Year for 2025. Women currently make up 20% of the EO Cape Town chapter, and we’re proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone for the 2026/2027 term: a 100% renewal rate among our female members.
Year Overview This year, EO Cape Town continued to raise the bar on what it means to be part of a thriving entrepreneurial community. From more than 30 learning experiences to strengthened forums and expanded opportunities for member engagement, we remained focused on delivering exceptional value at every touchpoint. New initiatives such as Learn Around Lunches and our inaugural All Member Connection Day created fresh opportunities for members to build deeper relationships, while popular programmes including our annual Family Day, 4 rounds of Blind Date Lunches, 51 MyEO experiences, SLP events and our thriving Accelerator programme continued to strengthen the fabric of our chapter.
“What is particularly encouraging is that our growth is intentional and healthy. Year-on-year, we are welcoming more members into the chapter than we are losing from the network. This is one of the clearest indicators of member value, and we do not take it lightly. As a Board and leadership team, we have spent considerable time weighing the risks versus the gains of scaling. We have grown with intention, always mindful of protecting what makes EO special while also leaning into the opportunities scale provides. In line with our long-term plan, our chapter vision remains clear: to be a thriving mega chapter known for a culture of connection where every member feels a sense of belonging, purpose and community. By June 2028, we aim to be a 250-member chapter.”
Anton Gillis EO Cape Town President, FY 2025 - 2026
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner We started our year with the All member Event which took place at Amazulu African Palace in Durban. Members and spouses were invited. We introduced the board members to the chapter and acknowledged and gifted members who were celebrating 10 years of membership.
Top 3 Events 1. All-Member Event | Celebrating the Tribe Our All-Member Event stood out as a powerful reminder of what makes EO Durban special. Set in an intimate, story-driven environment, the event created space for authentic connection and shared experience. Members reflected on the power of “coming together as a magnificent tribe,” with many highlighting how the social setting deepened relationships beyond the usual touchpoints. 2. Forum Next Level Training & Coaching | Strengthening the Core Forum remains at the heart of the EO experience, and this year we made a significant investment in elevating it. Our most in-depth, in-person Forum training to date, combined with a Next Level Forum session and dedicated Forum Coaching open to all members, created a meaningful shift in how members engage within their forums. The impact has been felt in stronger trust, deeper sharing, and more intentional forum experiences. 3. Table of 8 Dinners & LALA Sessions | Connection by Design Our Table of 8 dinners and LALA (Learning Around Lunch Around) sessions proved to be some of the most impactful engagement formats of the year. By intentionally creating smaller, curated groups, members were able to connect more deeply and engage in meaningful, real conversations. Table of 8 created a sense of excitement and discovery—members loved “arriving not knowing who you would meet,” with the smaller setting allowing for open, respectful and free-flowing conversation. LALA sessions brought a different, equally powerful dimension—offering raw, unfiltered insights into the realities of business. Members described these as “incredible” and deeply energising, with one sharing, “My soul is alight with possibilities!”—a testament to the power of real experience sharing within the EO community.
Achievements/Highlights This year has been defined by intentional growth - both at a chapter and member level. As a chapter, celebrating our 10-year milestone was a proud moment, reinforcing the strength, resilience and evolution of EO Durban over the past decade. Our continued focus on engagement has translated into stronger participation across learning, forum and social experiences, with members leaning in more actively than ever before. We were also proud to rank 3rd globally for the number of learning events hosted reflecting our commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality, and relevant learning opportunities for our members. A standout achievement was our investment in Forum excellence. Through advanced, in-person Forum training and coaching, we have seen a meaningful shift in the depth of trust, vulnerability and value being experienced within forums - strengthening the core of the EO journey. At a member level, we continue to see inspiring examples of growth, resilience and
collaboration. From members scaling their businesses and navigating complex challenges, to leaning on the network during tougher moments, the true highlight remains the way our community shows up for one another - living the spirit of Ubuntu in a real and tangible way.
Year Overview EO Durban | 10 Years Strong: Rooted in Connection, Growing in Impact This year marked a major milestone for EO Durban as we celebrated our 10-year anniversary honouring a decade of building a powerful, values-driven entrepreneurial community. Guided by our theme, Ubuntu – Roots. Relationships. Reach., our focus has been on deepening meaningful member engagement. We set out to strengthen the foundations of connection (Roots), foster authentic relationships across tenure and experience (Relationships), and expand the impact of our network (Reach). This came to life through a series of intentional, high-impact social experiences. Highlights included our All-Member Event at AmaZulu African Palace, two rounds of Table of 8 dinners connecting tenured and newer members, a New Member Welcome Dinner designed to integrate and connect early, and our Supper Series - bringing EO and Accelerator members together for powerful experience sharing. A key highlight this year was our investment in Forum excellence. We hosted the most in-depth, in-person Forum training our chapter has ever undertaken with Marc Stockli, including a Next Level Forum training session and a dedicated Forum Coaching session open to all members - further strengthening the core of the EO experience. In parallel, we continued to prioritise learning excellence and are proud to have ranked 3rd globally for the number of learning events hosted this year- reinforcing our commitment to consistent, high-quality growth opportunities. As we celebrate this milestone year, EO Durban remains focused on creating a chapter where members feel deeply connected, continuously challenged, and fully supported—at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner The year opened with the EO Opening Party, bringing the community together and setting the tone for the months ahead. This was followed by the chapter retreat to Kerala, where members spent time exploring local culture, cuisine, and traditions, from the snake boat race to a traditional sadhya, alongside cross-chapter connections with EO APAC. Later in the year, the Diwali Night brought members from different cultures together to celebrate and learn about the festival, while the Christmas evening did the same for the festive season. Both evenings created space for shared experience and genuine connection across a diverse membership.
Top 2 Events 1. The AI for Business event brought together 180 members over two days, including nearly 50 from EO chapters across MEPA and South Asia, for sessions on AI’s role in business with speakers from Singularity University and hands-on app-building workshops. The corporate tax event drew 48 members from across the MEPA region for a focused session on the evolving global tax landscape and the GCC’s corporate tax framework. The chapter retreat to Kerala rounded out the year’s highlights, offering three days of cultural immersion and cross-chapter connection with EO APAC.
2. DET Award An unforgettable moment for the Entrepreneurs’ Organization and the entire EO Dubai family. We are honoured to receive recognition from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), celebrating the EO Singularity event as one of the top events in Dubai, with the award presented in 2026. This achievement is more than an award, it is a testament to our shared vision, collaboration, and the relentless passion of our EO Dubai community. Together, we continue to raise the bar for learning, innovation, and impact. Here’s to many more milestones ahead.
Achievements/Highlights This year, several of our members received recognition across the business community. Our Communications Chair Hasan Fadlallah, won Branding Agency of the Year at Campaign’s Agency of the Year Middle East Awards 2025. Finance Chair, Sanjay Raghunath was recognised as one of the Top 100 Expat Leaders of the UAE 2025, and was also part of the semiconductor plant inauguration attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rana Akkad received the Excellence in Inclusion and Social Impact Award for 2025.
Year Overview EO Dubai’s FY2025/2026 was a full year of learning, connection, and community. From the Opening Party to the chapter retreat in Kerala, cross-chapter events with EO APAC, two major learning conferences, and festive celebrations that brought the chapter’s diverse membership together, it was a year that reflected what EO Dubai is built on.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner Members came together for a memorable evening featuring a family-focused program, with children joining on stage and enjoying awe-inspiring illusionist moments, music, food, and meaningful connections. The event was thoughtfully organised by the MarCom and Engagement Chairs.
Top 3 Events Leadership in Uncertain Times brought EO Islamabad together for a conversation with Zafar Masud, President and CEO of the Bank of Punjab, on navigating uncertainty and high-stakes decision-making. The evening was opened by Chapter President Shafique Rehman, moderated by Learning Chair Arham Khalid, and closed with an Iftar dinner and networking. The chapter also hosted an In the Boardroom dialogue with His Excellency Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate and Former Prime Minister of Pakistan. Rounding out the year, Legends of EO brought tenured and new members together for an evening of open conversation and genuine connection.
PRESS PLAY
Achievements/Highlights It was a strong year for recognition across the chapter. GSEA winner Alina Nasir, Founder of Office Flow AI, won the National Finals and advanced to the Regional Finals. Chapter President Shafique Ur Rehman received the CEO Award at the CEO Summit in Peshawar, and Omais Khattak was appointed President of the Islamabad Industry Association. On the global stage, EO Islamabad ranked among the top five chapters worldwide with 40% net growth.The year was marked by the distinguished visit of EO Global Board Member Alan Cheung to Pakistan, where Tenured EO Member and RCCI President Usman Shaukat moderated an engaging fireside chat during an exclusive dinner. The conversation offered prospects and new members meaningful insight into EO, its values, and the strength of its global community.
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Year Overview The year for EO Islamabad was shaped by meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and a stronger sense of community. From thought-provoking speaker sessions to retreats and cross-chapter collaborations, members continued to deepen trust and connection throughout the year. Among the standout moments were Leadership in Uncertain Times, an In the Boardroom dialogue with His Excellency Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, and a fireside chat with EO Global Board Member Alan Cheung. The year was also marked by member achievements and global recognition at GLC 2026. Beyond formal sessions, the chapter’s spirit came alive in its community experiences. Legends of EO brought tenured and new members together in a powerful exchange of stories, while the MYEO Retreat in Nathiagali and MYEO Basant added cultural warmth and family-centered memories to the year. Throughout, valued partners including Mövenpick Islamabad, MG Capital Islamabad, and Jafferjees helped bring these experiences to life.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner EO Jeddah hosted the Saudi Summit 2026 Kickoff Dinner, welcoming members from chapters across the global EO network for an evening of connection and community. The dinner gave members the opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, strengthen relationships and welcome visiting EO members ahead of the summit. Throughout the evening, attendees engaged in insightful conversations, shared entrepreneurial journeys and built new connections that continued throughout the summit and beyond.
Top 3 Events 1. Transform Your People and Profits with 9 Deeds in 90 Days On 21 January 2026, EO Jeddah hosted Will Scott for a hands-on session on company culture and intentional leadership. Attendees explored how culture shapes team performance and drives sustainable business growth, leaving with practical strategies to apply immediately in their organisations.
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2. From Fear to Flow: Building Mental Toughness Through Adventure EO Jeddah member Dr Badr Alshibani drew on his experiences across mountains, deserts and polar regions to share lessons on resilience, overcoming fear and leadership under pressure. His session showed how extreme environments can sharpen mindset and strengthen decision-making.
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3. Fireside Session with Mona Ataya Entrepreneur Mona Ataya shared firsthand insights from building some of the region’s most successful companies. Her session covered practical business lessons, leadership perspectives and growth strategies that resonated with members looking to scale and innovate.
Achievements/Highlights SPARK Saudi Summit 2026 welcomed more than 200 entrepreneurs and guests from Saudi Arabia, MENA, Europe, the Americas and South Asia to historic Jeddah under the theme “Mind, Body and Soul.” The summit featured an strong lineup of speakers including Amira Al-Taweel, Jeff Hoffman, Verne Harnish, Adwa Aldakheel, Bruno Franca, Mazen Rukayni, Fahad Fatani, Ghalia Khaldi and entertainer Mo Magic Mohammed Moorad, covering leadership, business scaling, innovation and personal growth. The strong international turnout reflected Saudi Arabia’s growing position as a hub for entrepreneurship and business leadership, aligned with Vision 2030.
Year Overview EO Jeddah continued to grow as one of the region’s leading entrepreneurial communities, delivering strong learning events, meaningful connections and world-class experiences throughout the year. Learning events covered leadership, company culture, mental resilience and entrepreneurial growth, featuring globally recognised speakers and EO members who brought real value to every session. The standout moment of the year was Saudi Summit 2026 SPARK, which brought together more than 200 entrepreneurs from Saudi Arabia, MENA, Europe, the Americas and South Asia, cementing EO Jeddah’s reputation as a genuine global connector. The chapter also welcomed six new members this year, with additional sign-ups in progress, reflecting strong momentum and continued engagement across the community.
All Member Event The new term was launched in style with an All-Member Event graciously hosted by our President, Jonathan Kohler, at his home in Johannesburg. Members gathered for an evening of connection, celebration, and reflection, strengthening relationships, acknowledging the progress of the chapter, and recognising the contributions of a dedicated board that has served the community over the past two years. A key moment of the evening was the announcement of our Incoming President, Ronald Abvajee, whose leadership within the Accelerator community has positioned him to guide EO Johannesburg into its next chapter. We also recognised Clyde Ackerman, who has served as Member Engagement Chair and was announced as President Elect-Elect. We extend appreciation to all members who attended and contributed to making the evening a memorable start to the term.
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Top 3 Events 1. In The Boardroom with Pavlo Phitidis EO Johannesburg’s Learning Days have consistently been a defining part of the chapter’s commitment to meaningful, practical education, but this year’s “In the Boardroom” session with Pavlo Phitidis stood out as a moment that truly brought theory into sharp, lived reality. From the outset, Pavlo didn’t position himself as a speaker delivering polished answers from a distance. Instead, he stepped into the room as a practitioner shaped by decades of building, scaling, and restructuring businesses in real time, often in high-pressure environments where decisions carry immediate consequence. Over the course of his career, he has founded, scaled, and exited 12 companies, completed 68 mergers and acquisitions, and guided four separate businesses all the way to listings on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) - a track record that immediately grounded the conversation in lived experience rather than theory. What made the session particularly valuable for EO Johannesburg members was not just the scale of his accomplishments, but the way he unpacked the thinking behind them. Pavlo walked members through the analytical frameworks and operational models he relies on when assessing business health and identifying what truly drives sustainable growth. Rather than focusing on abstract strategy, he broke down the discipline of execution: how leaders create accountability systems that actually work, how decisions are stress-tested against reality, and how operational clarity becomes the foundation for scale rather than chaos.
2. It’s Politics, Stupid: Helen Zille in Conversation with EO Johannesburg We hosted a thought-provoking leadership session featuring public policy and governance leader Helen Zille. The discussion focused on the relationship between civic participation, governance quality, and long-term economic performance, with particular emphasis on how public institutions and voter engagement can influence national and regional development outcomes. The conversation explored the broader question of how active citizenship and accountable governance shape economic stability and growth. Drawing on examples from South Africa’s diverse municipal and provincial contexts, Helen Zille reflected on how differences in local government effectiveness can influence investment confidence, service delivery, and business development.
3. EO Johannesburg Family Day at Hugh’s The Chapter’s third major event was Family Day, which brought members and their families together in a more relaxed setting. By bringing families into the centre of the chapter, Family Day turns members into a tribe that rallies around each other’s dreams and well‑being, building deep human connections that outlast any single event.
Achievements/Highlights This year has been defined by ambition, collective effort, and progress across EO Johannesburg. From the outset, the Chapter set a clear focus: to reach 100 members while achieving a 97% retention rate. It required strong growth, welcoming approximately 35 to 40 new members, and an equal commitment to ensuring existing members continued to find value and connection within EO. Retention is never simply a number. It reflects the health of a chapter, the strength of its relationships, and the consistency of its engagement. Achieving a 97% retention rate, the highest in the MEPA region, is a clear indicator that members are finding real value in the community. At the start of the term, the Chapter had approximately 50 to 55 members. Today, it has nearly doubled in size. The Board has also been a highlight. Each member committed to a two-year term. What has stood out is the diversity of strengths around the table and the way the Board has shown up for one another, choosing collaboration and accountability through challenging moments. The Chapter also extends appreciation to Dani Levitan, the Chapter Manager, whose arrival has brought renewed energy. In a short time, her impact has been felt across operations, culture, and member experience.
Year Overview As the Chapter enters the final phase of the leadership term, the year reflects progress alongside the continued work of building a thriving entrepreneurial community. The focus has been consistent: grow membership while deepening engagement and delivering value. This dual mandate of growth and retention has shaped the Chapter’s work throughout the year. A key milestone has been achieving a 97% retention rate, the highest in the MEPA region, reflecting a Chapter experience that continues to resonate with members. EO Johannesburg also launched its new website this year, improving access and engagement for current and prospective members. Members participated in the Global Leadership Conference (GLC), contributing to learning and connection across the EO network, and the Chapter hosted Forum Next Level training, reinforcing the peer-to-peer learning that sits at the heart of EO.
A highlight was the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA). The Johannesburg final featured four student entrepreneurs, with Victor Moabelo and Gad Ben-Schachar of the University of the Witwatersrand selected to represent the Chapter at nationals. At the South Africa final, Chayita Momoza of DecorMama was named national winner and will progress to the regional stage.
As the year concludes, the focus remains on finishing strong, sustaining the momentum, culture, and value that define EO Johannesburg. We extend our sincere thanks to our Strategic Alliance Partners: Kloppers, Westbrooke Alternative Asset Management, FNB, The Edge, Workshop17, and CCVR for their partnership, support, and commitment to our chapter. We also offer our appreciation to our Strategic Alliance Partnership Chair, Ryan Cohen, for his dedication, leadership, and hard work in building and strengthening these valued relationships.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner EO Jordan celebrated a remarkable milestone: 10 years of growth, connection, and impact. The chapter marked the occasion with a retreat at the Dead Sea, joined by visiting members from across the global EO network. Together with members and their spouses, the weekend was filled with reflection, wellness, and deep connection.
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Top 3 Events 1. Everest Summit & South Pole Lessons from the Edge of the World featured Mostafa Salameh, who shared lessons from his extreme expeditions, highlighting resilience, leadership under pressure, and the importance of pushing beyond limits.
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2. Discover the Gift of Culture with Will Scott focused on building strong organisational culture through actionable frameworks like ‘9 deeds in 90 days,’ emphasising how culture directly impacts people’s performance and business success.
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3. From Control to Connection with Aseel Al-Saleh A High-Achiever’s Guide to Reclaiming Trust with Your Body, offered a personal and reflective experience, exploring the shift from perfectionism to self-compassion and helping participants build a healthier, more connected relationship with themselves.
Achievements/Highlights To mark 10 years, EO Jordan hosted a retreat at the Dead Sea, bringing together local members and guests from across the global EO network. Beyond this milestone, EO Jordan members achieved outstanding recognition on both regional and global stages. We are incredibly proud of Rama Kayyali, selected as one of only nine global recipients of the Cartier Women’s Initiative Impact Awards in Osaka, Japan, recognising her leadership and impact in education. We also celebrated Zeid Kilani on his election as President of the Jordan Pharmacists Association, reflecting his leadership and commitment to advancing the sector. One of our members, Alaa Jarrar, announced the launch of “6G Classes” at Jo Academy, a new generation of intelligent educational content redefining digital learning through real-life application and interactive experiences. We congratulate Hussam Hammo on the acquisition of Playable Factory by Tamatem Games, bringing in a highly innovative team with strong global partnerships and reinforcing Tamatem’s position for continued regional and global growth.
Adey Salamin was awarded the King Abdullah II Ibn Al-Hussein Medal for Excellence in recognition of his contributions to technology, entrepreneurship, and building pioneering internet companies across the MENA region.
Year Overview EO Jordan continues to build on a decade of impact while strengthening connections, empowering members, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the region.
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Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner EO Karachi’s retreat to Japan was a strong example of member engagement and inter-chapter connection, bringing together experiences in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, including a warm meetup with EO Kyoto. The journey included hands-on activities such as a Samurai Dojo experience and a calligraphy workshop, along with time exploring Dotonbori’s nightlife. Quieter moments in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and TeamLab Planets Botanical Garden added balance to the trip. The retreat offered a mix of connection, learning, cultural experience and shared discovery.
Top 3 Events EO Karachi rounded off the year with around 50 curated events, offering a good mix of socials, learning experiences, integration activities, and family gatherings. Standout events included the EO Ball, the Ramzan Family Carnival, a festive Basant celebration, and a personality assessment with Marisa Ortiz. These events helped strengthen member connections, support learning and create shared experiences for members and their families.
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Achievements/Highlights EO Karachi welcomed 35 new primary and secondary members this year, with a few more poised to join in the remaining two months. This marks the highest growth in our history for number of new members inducted and reflects a global momentum. We hosted two retreats during the year, including a Japan retreat and a shorter mini retreat at a resort in Balochistan, both of which were key highlights. We also held two Forum Next Level events, supported by regular moderator meetups to strengthen forum health. Raabtay Dinners, hosted in members’ homes, created a more personal space for peer-led connection and helped strengthen the community from within.
EO Karachi had a landmark year under the presidency of Turan Quettawala, guided by the motto, ‘It’s about us.’ The chapter saw its strongest growth to date, welcoming 35 new members while maintaining strong momentum through a full calendar of events, retreats, forum activities and member-led gatherings. Together, these strengthened connection, engagement and community across the chapter.
Top 3 Events 1. EO Kenya Christmas Party EO Kenya closed out the year in style with a vibrant Christmas celebration at Matteo’s Restaurant in Nairobi, bringing together more than 70 members and families for an afternoon of connection, laughter, and festive cheer. From exceptional food and flowing drinks to children’s entertainment and a surprise Secret Santa appearance, the event captured the spirit of the EO community. A standout highlight was the contribution from our SLP Chair, Perveen and her son Ranbir, who baked over 200 Christmas cookies for guests. Curated wine pairings by a sommelier elevated the experience even further, making it one of the chapter’s most memorable social gatherings of the year.
2. Purpose Portraits with Marc Gregory The “Purpose Portraits” learning event with Marc Gregory delivered a deeply reflective and inspiring experience for EO Kenya members and SLPs. Centered around the idea that photography should reveal who a person truly is - beyond titles and roles - Marc guided attendees through the philosophy and process behind his renowned portrait work. The evening combined meaningful learning with a premium social experience, beginning with sundowners and concluding with a Pan-Asian inspired dinner. The event received outstanding feedback and achieved an impressive 9/10 rating from attendees.
3. Tenured Members Dinner EO Kenya’s Tenured Members Dinner at Gochi Sake & Dining was an intimate and heartfelt celebration of the members who have helped shape and sustain the chapter over the years. Hosted on 26th March, the evening featured a bespoke Japanese dining experience, with each course thoughtfully paired with specially imported sake. More than a dinner, the event served as a tribute to long-standing commitment, leadership, and friendship within the chapter. Conversations flowed effortlessly as old connections were rekindled, creating a warm and meaningful atmosphere that honoured the legacy and loyalty of EO Kenya’s tenured members.
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Year Overview 2025/26 year has been one of momentum, connection, and meaningful growth for EO Kenya. Throughout the year, board members consistently showed up, leaned in, and worked collaboratively to keep the chapter moving forward with energy, intention, and impact. The year’s programming reflected EO Kenya’s commitment to both personal and professional development. Members benefited from a diverse range of learning experiences including the Chapter Leadership Academy, “Behind the Scenes” sessions at Spinners & Spinners and Vivo Activewear, and thought-provoking conversations around Imposter Syndrome, leadership within family businesses, and building strong company cultures and structures. The chapter also embraced innovation and future-focused thinking through Part 4 of the AI series with Raj Goodman, while Purpose Portraits with Marc Gregory encouraged members to reflect more deeply on identity and purpose. Attendance at signature experiences such as MEPA Unleashed and “Beyond Fear: Pushing Past Impossible” with Ryan Stramrood challenged members to think bigger, lead courageously, and push beyond perceived limits. Beyond learning, the chapter continued to foster strong community and connection through a series of memorable social and engagement-led experiences. Highlights included a vibrant Christmas Party, an intimate and meaningful Tenured Members Dinner, and the successful return of the Meet the Member Dining Series, all of which created opportunities for deeper relationships and shared moments across the membership base. Strong MyEO events throughout the year further reinforced what EO does best — bringing entrepreneurs together through learning, connection, and transformational shared experiences. As the chapter reflects on an exceptional year, the 2025/26 board leaves behind a strong foundation of engagement, momentum, and community that will continue to shape the future of EO Kenya.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner Chapter Mashup Dinner
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Top 3 Events 1. Design Thinking Workshop
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2. Welcome Breakfast for Our New Members
3. Board Room Discussion with Bader AIKharafi
Achievements/Highlights Automating Business Processes with Al
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Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner The EO Lahore Retreat 2025 in Nathia Gali opened with a Kick-Off Dinner featuring music, singing competitions, and games. A musical night followed, with performances and dance showcasing chapter talent. The ‘Strike a Pose’ session gave members a fun, interactive break, while families enjoyed an afternoon at Mushkpuri before an outdoor carnival brought everyone together through games and competition. The pipeline track excursion offered a scenic group hike, and a comedy night and game show closed out the evenings. Wellness sessions gave spouses time to relax and recharge. Overall, the retreat brought members and families together to strengthen connections and create shared memories.
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Top 3 Events 1. EO Roots Mehfil-e-Ishq-e-Junoon An evening that brought the chapter together to honour the journeys of its founding members. A Roots Talk featured reflections from first-generation fathers on their entrepreneurial paths, followed by dinner and a Qawwali performance.
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2. Strengths-Based Workshops with Marisa Ortiz Two separate full-day sessions, one for members and one for C-suite leaders, where participants explored how to identify their strengths and apply them to leadership, collaboration, and organizational culture.
3. EOS Methodology with Leandro Chennales Members and their executive teams spent a day covering the six core components of business.
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Achievements/Highlights This year brought several notable milestones for EO Lahore, both at a chapter level and on the global stage. Khuram Saleem is serving on the EO Global Board of Directors for a four-year term from July 2025 to June 2029. Asher Khan is serving on the MEPA Regional Council as Area Director for three consecutive years and has also been elected as Member Engagement Director. Yasir Bucha completed his forum training facilitator certification.
Khuram Saleem
Asher Khan
Yasir Bucha
This year also marked the official launch of EOA in EO Lahore. The chapter grew from zero to five founding members within the first month, and over the course of the year hosted 25 in-house learning events focused on peer learning and practical application. The group maintained 100% attendance across all international learning days.
Year Overview EO Lahore began the year with a 97% renewal rate and clear strategic direction set by the Strategy Summit, focusing on operational excellence and member value through stronger governance and alignment with EO global standards. Learning was delivered through ITB, LALA, hard-talks, and collaborations with institutions like LUMS. The Nathia Gali retreat was the flagship event of the year, bringing members and families together. Member engagement was sustained through buddy meetups, Time Traveler experiences, MyEO programs, and four signature WOW events. Spousal engagement remained strong through coffee and caffeine sessions, book clubs, and a quarterly grand spousal event. The chapter also developed 33 strategic alliances. Governance was supported by the past presidents council and chapter conduct committee, while operational progress was made through digital transformation and centralized tracking. Growth initiatives included structured onboarding and a female recruitment drive.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner EO Lebanon kicked off the year with a lively social gathering built around one simple idea, bringing people back together. It was an evening of good conversation and renewed energy, giving members the chance to reconnect and get excited about what lay ahead.
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Top 3 Events Three events stood out this year, each offering something different. A visit to the Minister of Technology and Artificial Intelligence gave members a frank look at where AI is heading in the public sector. Michel Bayoud of Boecker’s followed with a candid masterclass on building, scaling and eventually exiting a business. The year wrapped up with a visit to the Cortas factory, part tour and part reminder of the craftsmanship and heritage that defines Lebanese industry.
Achievements/Highlights It was a full and well-rounded year for EO Lebanon, with strong member turnout across a varied calendar of events. The chapter’s programming struck a good balance between forward-looking ideas and a grounding in local culture and identity.
Year Overview EO Lebanon had a year that felt cohesive and intentional. There was a clear thread running through everything, a chapter committed to learning together, growing together and making the most of what EO has to offer.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner The chapter retreat in Tunisia took members to the Mosaic Museum, with dinners, ice cream stops, and time to connect along the way.
Top 3 Events We hosted 15 virtual learning events covering topics from AI to LinkedIn sessions, creating valuable opportunities for members to learn. We also introduced a new event format, Inner Circle, which is a series designed to bring members closer together by sharing real stories, lessons, successes, and failures from across business and life. An in-person Strategy Summit in Dubai brought the Board together to align on priorities and strengthen working relationships. It was an important moment for bonding, collaboration, and shaping the chapter’s direction.
Achievements/Highlights The year’s highlights included local meetups held across the region and beyond, giving members the chance to connect in person across different cities and countries.
Ubuntu Forum Kenya Meetup
Dubai Meetup
MEPA in Japan
MEPA in Qatar Quatar
Year Overview Across the chapter, there was a strong sense of energy and connection, with members continuing to show up and learn from one another. This spirit was also felt at the EO MEPA Presidents’ Meeting, where leaders from across the region came together to share, reflect, and strengthen the momentum of the wider community.
Top 3 Events 1. Learning Event: Justice in Family Business Ownership, and Beyond 2. Learning Event: Zero to AI Hero in Just 2 Hours 3. MyEO Post-Biban Dinner
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Achievements/Highlights EO Riyadh hosted members from across the MEPA region at the MyEO Post-Biban Dinner, bringing together visiting and local members in an evening that reflected the chapter’s welcoming and globally connected spirit.
Year Overview EO Riyadh focused on learning, connection, and member engagement throughout the year. Learning events brought together international and local speakers across topics including leadership, corporate culture, and Scaling Up workshops, offering members practical and relevant insights. Smaller gatherings and social events complemented the larger programme, including the monthly Sunday Coffee Catch Up, held on the first Sunday of each month, providing a consistent space for members, new joiners, and visiting chapter members to connect. The board remained focused on improving the member experience and building a chapter where members feel engaged and connected.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner The chapter opened the year with a Ramadan Ghabga dinner, bringing together new and existing members in the spirit of Ramadan. It was a well-attended evening, with members from different industries sharing ideas and getting to know one another. New members had the chance to settle into the chapter, while longer-standing members reconnected and strengthened existing relationships. Beyond the social gathering, the Ghabga served as a platform for collaboration and inspiration. Members shared insights, explored potential synergies, and fostered a deeper sense of community. The positive energy set a strong and promising tone for the year ahead.
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Top 3 Events 1. Bridging the Gap Between People and Personal Goals session
2. Anger Management workshop
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3. Diwaniyah event hosted by our president at his residence.
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Achievements/Highlights The chapter opened the year with a strong programme of learning and connection. A session on Bridging the Gap Between People and Personal Goals encouraged self-reflection and practical thinking, while an Anger Management workshop gave members tools to better understand and manage their emotions in both personal and professional settings. On the community side, our Chapter President hosted a Diwaniyah gathering at his residence, offering members an authentic experience of Saudi hospitality and a relaxed setting for deeper conversation. The evening was also attended by EO Global Board Director Alan Cheung.
Year Overview This year was one of strong engagement, learning, and community for EO Saudi East. From the opening Ramadan Ghabga dinner, which brought new and existing members together, the spirit of connection and collaboration carried through the rest of the year. The chapter continued to grow, not just in numbers but in the quality of engagement, trust, and collaboration among members. Consistent participation and a willingness to share openly reinforced what this community is built on. Overall, this year laid a solid foundation. With strong participation and a connected membership, the chapter is well placed for the year ahead.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner EO Tanzania began the year by marking 10 years of the chapter. The anniversary town hall brought members together to reconnect, reflect on the chapter’s journey, and recognise the relationships and experiences that have shaped the community over the past decade. The chapter retreat focused on quality time together. Members and families spent time connecting in a way that is not always possible during regular events. It was a reminder of the relationships and shared experiences that continue to hold the chapter together.
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Top 2 Events One of the key events was the New Year town hall meeting, which brought members together after the Forum workshop trainings and helped create momentum for the year ahead. We also hosted a learning event with James Summers, where members explored leadership, communication and building high-performance teams.
Another highlight was the EO Tanzania Global Student Entrepreneur Awards journey, from the semi-finals through to the finals. The events showcased emerging entrepreneurial talent in Tanzania and brought together members, judges and the wider entrepreneurial community in support of young founders.
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Achievements/Highlights A highlight was our coffee cupping experience, led by EO Tanzania President Fahad. Members explored the craft, quality and reputation of Tanzanian coffee first-hand. The experience received 10/10 feedback across the board. EO Tanzania achieved 10% membership growth this year while strengthening member engagement and long-term value across the chapter. We also focused on building a future pipeline, creating opportunities for prospective members to experience EO and connect with the community. Our Strategic Alliance Partner relationships continued to grow, expanding the chapter’s network, resources and support. The chapter is also on track for an expected 100% member retention rate this year, reflecting the strength of its culture, connection and member commitment.
Year Overview EO Tanzania’s 10th year marked a period of growth, connection and member engagement. Guided by the theme ‘Thrive Together: Intentional Growth, Deeper Engagement,’ the chapter focused on strengthening relationships, improving member experiences and increasing participation across chapter life. The year included 10% membership growth, stronger future pipeline development, growing Strategic Alliance Partner relationships, continued development of GSEA Tanzania, increased regional and global EO participation, and an expected 100% member retention rate. As EO Tanzania marked its 10-year milestone, the year reflected the chapter’s progress and the role of its Board, Forums and members in building a connected and engaged community.
Chapter Retreat/Beginning Of The Year Dinner To kick off the year, EO Uganda hosted a town hall meeting followed by a dinner at the Serena Hotel Kampala. The event was well attended by members and SLP participants.
Top 3 Events 1. Our Christmas boat cruise brought members together for an evening of celebration and connection on the water, a fitting way to close out the year in true EO style.
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2. The Unlocking Strategic HR learning event gave members a deeper look at the role of human resource management in building strong businesses.
3. The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards celebrated the innovation, ambition, and resilience of emerging young entrepreneurs. The event highlighted the importance of mentorship and investment in the next generation.
Achievements/Highlights Social and networking activity was strong this year, with attendance at chapter events up on previous years. We also introduced a new concept where each forum hosts its own social event, producing a quiz night, a padel session, and a sushi and wine experience so far. A strong contingent of EO Uganda members also travelled to EO Ignite in Durban and EO Unleashed in Tunisia.
Year Overview EO Uganda delivered a well-balanced year across learning, networking, and social engagement. Members took part in forums, deep dives, and curated sessions that sparked honest dialogue and practical insight. On the networking side, partner collaborations, cross-forum interactions, and regional connections helped strengthen relationships and open new opportunities across industries. The social calendar kept energy high, with events ranging from relaxed dinners to the Christmas boat cruise and padel social, giving members space to connect beyond the boardroom. It was a year defined by consistency, quality programming, and a strong sense of community.
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