Ivan Petkov, a third year International Business student who is currently on exchange at City University of Hong Kong, recently attended the International Youth Leadership Conference (IYLC) in Dubai (March 22-27).
In order to be accepted to the conference, Ivan had to write an essay regarding the most pressing and relevant challenges for his country based on the 'State of the Future' report issued by the World Federation of UN Associations and to suggest possible ways to successfully tackle those problems.
The IYLC- UAE is a week-long experience aimed at achieving mutual understanding between participants from the United Arab Emirates, the GCC region and all corners of the globe.
"My personal interest in that part of the world arose after my summer internship in the Strategic Development Unit of the Russian oil company LUKOIL," Ivan explained, adding that he had participated in parts of the conference relating to the role of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Sharia Law and Justice, International Relations and Diplomacy, the Arab League, and how to be a responsible leader.
Ivan, who is from Bulgaria, attended alongside peers from Qatar, Australia, Canada, Lebanon, Zimbabwe and India. The highlight of the conference for Ivan was the day they spent at the General Authority of Youth and Sports Welfare where they simulated the Arab League. Ivan met the Minister of the Youth and Sports Welfare in Dubai who awarded him with a certificate for his contribution to the simulation event.