Youngest honouree among 49 leaders recognised for creativity and positive social innovation
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 9 February 2026:
Saudi youth star, podcaster, and social innovator Rateel Al-Shahri, aged 14, has won the “Leadership in Empowering Others” award as part of Fast Company Middle East’s list of the Most Creative People in Business 2026. Al-Shahri is the youngest recipient among the 49 honourees recognised this year.
The awards ceremony took place on 5 February 2026 at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, bringing together business leaders, technology pioneers, media figures, cultural influencers, and representatives from the creative industries. The event celebrated exceptional achievements that are reshaping the regional business landscape and highlighted creativity as a key driver of progress, cross-sector collaboration, and sustainable value creation across the Middle East.
The category in which Al-Shahri was recognised honours leaders who place people at the heart of their work and use creativity to deliver meaningful social impact. The Saudi content creator was recognised for her human-centred storytelling approach, her contributions to youth dialogue, and her community initiatives that amplify young voices and encourage purpose-driven leadership.
Commenting on the recognition, Rateel Al-Shahri said:
“This award carries deep meaning for me because it is centred on people above all else. I believe creativity is not limited to ideas, but is reflected in the impact we create for others—when people feel seen, heard, and supported.”
Through her podcast “Rateel Alpha Talk” and a range of youth-led initiatives, Al-Shahri has created platforms that promote open dialogue, curiosity, and empathy among young people across the region and beyond. Her work focuses on empowering the next generation to recognise the value of their voices as tools for positive change.
She added:
“I’ve learned that even at a young age, meaningful impact is possible when you listen first and lead with vision and purpose. I hope this inspires other young people to believe that their ideas can create positive change for many.”
The Most Creative People in Business 2026 list celebrates individuals who are redefining leadership by turning ideas into action and creativity into tangible results. This year’s honourees represent a diverse range of disciplines, united by their ability to create lasting human impact beyond titles and positions.
Al-Shahri recently achieved another historic milestone as the youngest-ever winner of the ‘Best Influencer’ award in the Arab world at the Joy Awards.
Her accomplishments mark significant milestones in her journey and extend beyond personal success, inspiring a new generation of changemakers in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East. Her story reinforces the message that age is not a barrier to achievement when creativity is paired with empathy and a commitment to making a difference.
