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Rabat – Driven by a vision to foster a new generation of Moroccan leaders, Badr Boussabat co-founded “Morocco’s 40 Under 40” initiative alongside his brother Ouçama. The two brothers recognized the country’s ongoing transformation and the need for emerging talent, and sought to create a platform that connects young, accomplished Moroccans with influential mentors.
With a focus on innovation, leadership, and social responsibility, the program aims to support and empower the next generation to drive meaningful change in their respective fields and contribute to Morocco’s development.
Morocco World News (MWN) spoke with Badr, who explained that the initiative is designed to identify and nurture young, dynamic individuals who are making a difference in their respective fields. The program seeks to cultivate a new generation of Moroccan leaders through mentorship, networking, and exposure to top leaders and thinkers.
A vision for the future
The concept behind Morocco’s 40 Under 40 is rooted in a recognition of the country’s evolving needs. “The initiative was born from the realization that Morocco is undergoing a historical transformation, and there is a need to cultivate a new generation of leaders who will guide this change,” Badr told MWN. He spoke of the need to cultivate a new generation of leaders who will guide this change.
The program is designed to connect talented Moroccans, whether in Morocco or in the greater diaspora, and offer them a platform to contribute to the country’s growth and development.
The initiative will do so by identifying young leaders who are excelling in their fields and have the potential to play a central role in Morocco’s future. “We aim to prepare 200 influential leaders under 40 by 2030 who will help guide Morocco through its ongoing transformation,” Badr explained.
The selected individuals will have access to a network of mentors, training, and exclusive events that will help them enhance their leadership skills and broaden their impact.
The initiative follows a rigorous selection process to ensure that only those who truly embody leadership and vision are chosen, Badr added. To qualify, applicants must be Moroccan or part of the Moroccan diaspora (MRE), under 40 years old, and have demonstrated a commitment to making a positive impact, whether through entrepreneurship, academia, business, or community work.
The selection committee evaluates candidates based on their “achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to shaping Morocco’s future.” Badr added. “We are seeking individuals who exhibit leadership, innovation, and a passion for impact. Whether they are driving change through entrepreneurship, leading in academia, or influencing their industry, applicants should demonstrate the ability to adapt, innovate, and inspire others,” he explained.
Applicants are also expected to be driven by a strong sense of social responsibility. “We also look for those with a deep connection to Morocco’s future growth, whether it’s through business, education, or community work,” Badr stated.
Mentorship from global leaders
One of the standout features of the program, Badr says, is the mentorship provided to each of the selected individuals. The mentees will be guided by an exclusive group of mentors, many of whom are among the most successful figures in the world.
Notable mentors include names like Rachid Yazami, Ilham Kadri, Amal El Fallah-Serghrouchni, Ouadih Dada, and Ilan Benhaim, whose success stories provide invaluable insights and inspiration to the next generation of Moroccan leaders.
“We want our selected leaders to be supported by a strong network of mentors,” Badr remarks to MWN. “These mentors represent among the most successful stories on earth, and their guidance will help the participants reach new heights.”
Building a global network of diverse and impactful leaders presents its own challenges, but they are ones that Badr is confident in overcoming. The challenge, he explains, lies in ensuring the inclusion of leaders from various sectors and regions of the world, and that the program truly represents the full spectrum of Moroccan talent.
“Building such a diverse and influential network requires sustained engagement and resources,” Badr notes.
While the core of the program lies in identifying and mentoring future leaders, the broader community plays a key role in its success. “The broader community can support us by spreading the word, nominating outstanding young leaders, and providing resources such as expertise, sponsorships, or mentorship,” says the entrepreneur.
As Badr points out, “The success of Morocco’s 40 Under 40 relies on collective action from everyone who believes in the potential of Moroccan talent.”
‘An opportunity not to be missed’
Badr lauded the initiative’s appeal – offering young, ambitious individuals the chance to join a unique and prestigious network, where they will gain access to exclusive conferences, workshops, and high-level industry events.
It’s not just about being part of a list, he says; it’s about the opportunities to grow, connect, and influence. “This is a unique chance to access exclusive conferences, workshops, and connect with influential profiles. Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to grow your network, learn from the best, and be part of Morocco’s future.”
For those looking to take their career and influence to the next level, Morocco’s 40 Under 40 offers a rare opportunity to be part of something larger than themselves—something that will not only help them grow as leaders but will also help shape Morocco’s future, Badr concluded.
