13-year-old Saudi girl Rateel Alshehri shares limelight with Bill Gates at Riyadh forum

Saudi Arabia's youngest trailblazer, Rateel Alshehri, continues to break barriers as she recently shared the stage with global philanthropist and tech visionary Bill Gates at the Misk Global Forum 2024 in Riyadh.

Rateel was selected to deliver the keynote opening speech, captivating the audience with her vision for empowering youth and introducing Gates, who headlined the forum.

At just 13 years old, Rateel has earned her place as a role model for Generation Alpha, becoming a beacon of innovation, curiosity, and social impact.

Known for her popular podcast, Rateel Alpha Talk, and her appointment as the Ambassador of Future Industrialists, she has inspired young minds globally, earning recognition as Saudi Arabia's top influencer and content creator.

In her speech titled “Driving Change with Curiosity and Purpose” at the Misk Global Forum 2024, Rateel emphasised the transformative power of curiosity in shaping the future. She articulated how fostering a culture of inquisitiveness among young people can lead to groundbreaking innovations and solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges. Rateel shared personal stories of perseverance, illustrating how questioning the status quo and venturing into the unknown have been pivotal in her own journey.

“Standing on this stage today is not just an honour but a testament to the boundless opportunities for Saudi youth. As we innovate and grow, it’s our courage and curiosity that will shape a brighter future,” Rateel shared during her address.

As she introduced Bill Gates, Rateel highlighted his global contribution to innovation, philanthropy, and sustainable development, further cementing the forum's theme of "Empowering the Future." Gates praised the energy and determination of the Kingdom’s youth, calling it a vital component of global progress.

The Misk Global Forum, an annual flagship event of the Misk Foundation, gathers leaders, thinkers, and innovators from around the world to explore how youth can shape the future of work, education, and innovation. This year’s forum marked a milestone for Saudi Arabia as it showcased the Kingdom’s commitment to empowering its youth and fostering international collaboration.

With her pioneering spirit and dedication to inspiring others, Rateel Alshehri continues to be a catalyst for change, bridging the gap between generations and paving the way for a sustainable, innovative future.