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Unlocking the Future of Business: Recap of Our Exclusive Gathering in Dubai

Writer's picture: Natalia ZolkowskaNatalia Zolkowska

At a time when business leaders must navigate unprecedented shifts in global markets, technology, and economic resilience, Leaders on Purpose and Equity Group Holdings brought together an exceptional group of forward-thinking executives at Expo City Dubai to explore the future of business, leadership, and global collaboration.


This invitation-only gathering, held on February 6, 2025, alongside the Cities in Action Forum, convened senior executives, policymakers, and industry pioneers for a high-impact dialogue on how businesses can remain competitive, future-fit, and positioned for long-term success in a rapidly changing world.


As industries evolve, the ability to adapt, innovate, and lead through complexity has become a defining trait of successful enterprises. This event was part of Leaders on Purpose’s ongoing work to equip executives with the strategic insights, partnerships, and leadership frameworks needed to build businesses that thrive in the economy of the future.


Key Moments from the Evening

Exclusive Pre-Dinner Roundtable: Africa’s Role in Global Economic Transformation



A select group of leaders participated in a high-level discussion on Cross-Continental Leadership and Africa’s Role in a Future-Fit Global Economy. The conversation explored:


  • How strategic partnerships, particularly between Africa and the UAE, can unlock economic growth, drive investment, and strengthen global markets.

  • Africa’s role in a shifting economic landscape and how it can lead in shaping the industries of the future.

  • The vital role of purpose-centered business and financial institutions in driving innovation, market expansion, and long-term business resilience.


This discussion reinforced Leaders on Purpose’s emphasis on the power of global leadership, private-sector collaboration, and the need for business models that create long-term economic value.


Fireside Chat: Aligning Capital, Policy & Innovation for Growth

Featuring Dr. James Mwangi (CEO, Equity Bank) and distinguished guests, this dynamic discussion focused on:


  • How financial institutions can drive economic growth, stability, and opportunity in fast-changing global markets.

  • The intersection of capital, policy, and enterprise innovation in shaping resilient economies.

  • How Africa and the UAE can collaborate on investment, trade, and advanced industries such as energy, finance, and technology.


As financial markets evolve and new investment models emerge, leaders must rethink how they allocate capital, manage risk, and create long-term value. Leaders on Purpose continues to explore these intersections, helping organizations develop business strategies that position them as market leaders in the next economic era.


The Africa Recovery & Resilience Plan: A Blueprint for Long-Term Economic Growth



A central theme that emerged during the evening was the importance of structured, scalable strategies to drive Africa’s economic transformation in a way that strengthens global markets. Equity Group Holdings’ Africa Recovery & Resilience Plan provides a comprehensive framework for investment, enterprise growth, and cross-sector collaboration to accelerate economic resilience.


The plan focuses on:


  • Strengthening trade and market integration to elevate Africa’s role in global supply chains.

  • Expanding access to capital and financial innovation to enable business growth.

  • Investing in industry and infrastructure to fuel enterprise development.

  • Building workforce capabilities through education, digital inclusion, and leadership training.


For business leaders, investors, and policymakers, this plan presents tangible opportunities to engage in Africa’s transformation—whether through investment, partnerships, or knowledge-sharing. It is a clear roadmap for action, aligning with Leaders on Purpose’s mission to drive purpose-driven innovation and economic leadership.


To explore the full Africa Recovery & Resilience Plan, visit: Equity Group Holdings 


Curated Seated Dinner & Thematic Discussions

Over dinner, attendees engaged in targeted discussions on the future of business leadership, delving into:


  • Innovative business models that drive both financial strength and market leadership.

  • The need for adaptive leadership frameworks in a rapidly changing global economy.

  • Strategic approaches for companies to stay ahead of industry shifts and remain competitive.


The discussions reinforced the importance of businesses embracing innovation, agility, and forward-thinking leadership to maintain market strength and drive future prosperity.


Key Takeaways: Future-Fit Business & Long-Term Growth

Throughout the evening, discussions highlighted the opportunity for businesses to lead in shaping a regenerative, resilient, and high-performing economy.


Key insights from the event included:


  • Africa’s leadership in global economic transformation: Leaders emphasized the need for Africa to be a driver of market innovation, economic expansion, and global investment.

  • Breaking down silos for transformative partnerships: The convergence of business, finance, and policy was recognized as essential for unlocking new opportunities and strengthening economies.

  • The role of financial institutions in shaping the future: Insights from Equity Bank’s leadership underscored how financial models that embrace long-term thinking can expand markets and drive inclusive prosperity.

  • UAE-Africa partnerships as a model for business-driven progress: Discussions highlighted how the UAE and Africa can collaborate on new industries, supply chain integration, and technology investments to create scalable, high-impact opportunities.


At Leaders on Purpose, we recognize that the most successful businesses of the future will be those that embrace innovation, resilience, and leadership at scale. These insights will continue to inform our research, executive engagements, and leadership initiatives, ensuring that companies are positioned to thrive in the evolving economic landscape.


An Evening of Transformative Conversations & Connections


Beyond the scheduled discussions, this gathering ignited countless conversations that continued well into the night. As leaders shared insights over dinner, new connections were forged, and unexpected synergies emerged. The energy in the room was palpable—ideas sparked, collaborations took root, and a shared commitment to shaping the future grew stronger with every exchange.


This event was more than a forum for discussion—it was a catalyst for action. Attendees walked away not just with insights but with new partnerships, strategies, and a shared vision for the future of business leadership.


What’s Next?

The conversations in Dubai were just the beginning. Leaders on Purpose will continue to convene top executives, industry innovators, and policymakers to translate these insights into actionable business strategies.


As industries shift, markets evolve, and leadership priorities transform, Leaders on Purpose remains committed to helping organizations build future-fit leadership models, forge strategic partnerships, and drive next-generation business success.


Stay tuned for upcoming forums, research, and leadership opportunities as we continue to shape the future of global enterprise.


Relive the Moments: Explore the Event Photo Gallery

We invite you to browse the event highlights and photo gallery:




We extend our deepest gratitude to our partners, speakers, and attendees for making this gathering a success. We look forward to continuing this journey together.


For more information, visit Leaders on Purpose.


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