12 April 2011
Dr. Tommy Weir to talk on major challenges presented by the upturn and share insights on key business issues at leader's conference

Dr. Tommy Weir, a world renowned speaker, adviser and leading authority on the subject of strategic leadership in fast growth and emerging markets, is set to deliver a strategic presentation on the fast tracked development of emerging economies in the Middle East region at the '2nd Middle East Business Leaders Summit and Awards (MEBLSA)', which will be held from April 17 to April 18, 2011, at the Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Dubai. Dr. Weir's talk will also include the major challenges presented by the upturn and the need to raise a better understanding of the new culture of business in today's global markets. The event, which is being organized by My Events International and endorsed by the Federation of GCC Chambers (FGCCC) and Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), will include key business networking sessions, lectures and workshops aimed at promoting the adoption of best practices across various industry verticals and to help promote better leadership skills.

Dr. Weir will make his presentation at 'The Leaders Summit' on April 18, 2011. His presentation, which is entitled, 'Deserts, Cities & Connections', seeks to showcase the Middle East region's fast tracked development from desert sands to being a global connection point for business. During his speech, Dr. Weir is expected to challenge the audience with leaving a leadership legacy while succeeding from the global connection point. The presentation will be followed with two breakout sessions; the first session, 'GO INVEST! Increasing Global Investment Appetite - Strategic gateways of trade & Investment for the Middle East investors', will be led by Raza Jaafar, CEO, ENSHAA PSC and the second session, 'Enabling SMI & SMEs to Go Global - The Challenges and Chances Ahead', will be chaired by Dato' Hafsah Hashim, Chief Executive Officer, SME Corp Malaysia. The summit will close with a luncheon speech and presentation from Rajeev Peshwaria, CEO, ICLIF Leadership & Governance Centre, who will talk about the topic, 'Too many bosses, too few leaders'.

"We are excited to have Dr. Tommy Weir as one of our guest speakers and hear his views on significant business issues surrounding today's global markets. Participants will surely learn and be inspired with his unique vision and ideals towards fast growth and the new emerging economies," said Shahul Hameed, CEO, My Events International. "This year's edition of MEBLSA continues to live up to its name of being the region's most strategic venue to discuss key issues covering the global business arena. The prepared program for this year's event offers more interactive lectures, workshop sessions and talks given by leading business personalities - complementing our chief aim of highlighting the many challenges presented by the upturn and the move to train and develop better business and leadership skills."

Dr. Weir is recognized as a leading expert on the subject of rapid growth in emerging markets and economies. His best selling book, 'The CEO Shift', has been lauded by top CEOs and international business leaders; calling it a thought-provoking book that explores the new global business environment and challenges corporate leaders to shift their practices in order to survive in the new economy. Dr. Weir holds a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University. His wide experience and knowledge in strategic leadership has allowed him to render advice and insights to governments and corporations and has spearheaded the creation of innovative and award-winning leadership programs throughout the Middle East. His unique experience of working with over 80 nationalities is a welcome breath of fresh air in today's diverse and multicultural work environment.

"The Middle East region is currently witness to what could be its greatest business challenge as witnessed by the emergence of modern cities that have grown out of desert sands in a single generation and created the global connection point for business. The rapid pace of development combined with the continuous influx of business and investment opportunities has attracted workers from all over the world; creating a global workforce that is at the helm of the region's move towards progress. With all of this in mind, I challenge the participants in MEBLSA to leave their legacy - looking past incremental growth and create a global impact from here in the region," added Dr. Weir.

MEBLSA sets out to become a key venue for the region's top corporate leaders and officials to discuss and share important and essential breakthroughs in today's business world. The event, which is now on its second year, also aims to facilitate the development of business leaders by providing opportunities for its members and guests. One of the highlights of the conference is the Organization Leadership Awards, which honours and pays tribute to the region's best business leaders. The awards aim to serve as a catalyst for the growth of new leaders and entrepreneurs to spur the industrial growth and to drive the region's economy.

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About MEBLSA
Middle East Business Leaders Summit and Awards (MEBLSA) is a standout event that recognizes and honours the achievements of Mid-East Asia's niche business visionaries and their contributions towards Arab Gulf region's economic region and also globally, through 30 different award categories. Established in 2010, the event serves as a platform for the members of business community to interact with each other, share their valuable experiences and provide insights into the business world. This year, it runs from 17-18 April in the Armani Hotel at Burj Khalifa, Dubai. The event is jointly organised by The Leaders International and Federation of GCC Chambers and endorsed by Dubai Chamber.

For more information, please contact:
CommuniGate Middle East
PO Box 66861, Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4 3988134
Fax: +971 4 3988137
Email: info@communigateme.ccom
Website: www.communigateme.com

© Press Release 2011