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US Embassy Celebrates Inspiring Journeys of Moroccan Alumni at Inaugural Alumni Summit

US Embassy Celebrates Inspiring Journeys of Moroccan Alumni at Inaugural Alumni Summit
Sunday 28 January 2024 - 09:00
Zoom

Rabat - The Bouregreg Congress Palace buzzed with excitement this past Saturday, as over 400 Moroccan exchange program alumni convened for the groundbreaking Alumni Summit hosted by the United States Embassy in Morocco.

This day-long event marked a historic milestone, uniting Moroccan participants from various US Department of State-sponsored exchange initiatives. Insightful presentations, networking sessions, and panel discussions on pressing topics like climate change and diversity laid the foundation for meaningful interactions.

In his opening remarks, US Ambassador Puneet Talwar expressed his delight at the unprecedented turnout and the remarkable diversity on display. "Morocco is America’s oldest friend, and this friendship is truly cherished. You embody that friendship in several ways," he remarked, underscoring the pivotal role of the alumni as citizen diplomats in fortifying ties between both nations.

The Ambassador reiterated this sentiment in an exclusive interview with our publication, commending the enthusiasm of the 400 alumni serving as mentors, ambassadors, and diplomats. "They are helping to mentor young people and building the bonds of friendship between the United States and Morocco," he emphasized.

The event's lobby showcased a vibrant array of social initiatives championed by the alumni community, spotlighting their significant contributions across disability rights, women’s empowerment, STEM, and more.

A standout initiative was Tibu Africa, founded by Mohammed Amin Ziada, which utilizes sports to create educational and leadership opportunities for underprivileged youth in Morocco and across Africa. Recently honored with a prestigious award at the World Economic Forum, Tibu Africa exemplifies the transformative impact emerging from this group.

Ambassador Talwar also praised the alumni for their instrumental role in responding to crises such as the El Haus earthquake, coordinating rescue efforts, and delivering aid a testament to their unwavering commitment to the country's welfare.

Consul General Marissa Scott highlighted the event's role in fostering synergistic connections. "There’s something profound about the energy and synergy that occurs when people share a space and a common goal," she commented.

Following the keynote, Tech Women alumna Lamiae Benmaklouf, CEO of Technopark Morocco, shared her inspirational journey. She expressed gratitude for the perspectives gained during her Silicon Valley experience in 2016. Beyond cultural exchange, the program provided valuable insights into leadership best practices.

For Lamiae Benmaklouf, workshops, talks, and engagement with tech giants catalyzed an impact-driven mindset shift. “Tech Women helped me tremendously in learning about advancing women in STEM and gaining knowledge from American mentors on managing tech firms,” she explained.

This engaging summit showcased the potential unleashed when driven individuals come together. By facilitating powerful connections, the US Embassy has elevated alumni relations to new heights.


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