Badr Boussabat, founder of the “Morocco’s 40 Under 40” initiative
In a constantly changing world, identifying and promoting emerging talent plays a crucial role in building the future. It is in this spirit that Badr Boussabat, founder of the “Morocco’s 40 Under 40” initiative, launched his project: highlighting young Moroccan leaders and offering them high-level mentoring, in order to prepare the next generation of actors of change for the Kingdom by 2030.
In this interview, Badr Boussabat explains to us the selection criteria for young talents and mentors, the challenges of this initiative, as well as the importance of the link between the diaspora and Morocco. He also shares the long-term vision of the program, which aspires to train tomorrow’s leaders in key sectors such as artificial intelligence, finance, technology and many others.
La Nouvelle Tribune: What are the main criteria used to select the 40 young Moroccan leaders on the one hand, and the 40 mentors on the other, in this initiative?
Badr Boussabat: The starting criteria are simple. First of all, you must be under 40 years old. Then, to be Moroccan or MRE. Finally, there are no particular expectations regarding the type of career. The profile can be that of an entrepreneur, an impact employee, a teacher or even an artist. The fundamental idea that we keep in mind is the identified potential to contribute to the future of the Kingdom of Morocco for 2030.
It is essential because we are convinced that drawing inspiration from those who have had a renowned career can make a crucial difference. First of all, this requires a form of legitimacy. It is easier for an ambitious young person to absorb the advice of a mentor who has demonstrated, through his career, his capacity for resilience and determination. Then, the mentor’s mission is to transmit the codes of structural development to young talents. We are convinced that patriotic fiber will play a key role.
How does this initiative help strengthen ties between young Moroccan leaders residing in Morocco and those living abroad?
Because we make no distinction between the MRE and the Moroccan who apply. This logic also applies to mentors. This initiative will, we dare to hope, strengthen strategic collaboration between young leaders. They will participate in our workshops and conferences together. In addition, they will learn from their respective paths and this will lead to professional and business collaborations which will have an economic and social impact for the Kingdom of Morocco by 2030.
What is the importance of the Moroccan diaspora in promoting the image and interests of Morocco internationally through this program?
It embodies an essential part of Morocco’s development. MREs also represent the showcase of our country internationally. In particular, in their involvement and contribution abroad in various institutions and companies. Many Moroccans living abroad reach heights and it is fundamental for us to celebrate it in order to inspire new generations.
What are the main long-term objectives of the Morocco’s 40 Under 40 initiative for the development of Moroccan talents?
The aim is to prepare future Moroccan leaders/MREs for 2030. This is a pivotal date which will require relying on trained and resourceful actors to support the positive development of Morocco. We have this duty to invest to the maximum degree in capacities to succeed in this historic economic and social turning point in Morocco.
Which sectors of the future does the Morocco’s 40 Under 40 initiative consider to be priorities for Morocco’s development?
Many sectors are essential. We mainly focus on the individual journey and the level of positive impact on the future of Morocco. We received hundreds of applications and we identified the following sectors: AI, Finance, Tech, Entrepreneur, Sustainability, Marketing, Culture, Academic, Podcasting and many others.
Comments collected by Selim Benabdelkhalek
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