A New Era of Investment in the Region

The Middle East is witnessing a remarkable shift in its entrepreneurial ecosystem, achieving record-high investments of US$2.3 billion from startups in 2024. This unprecedented growth reflects the innovative spirit and bold ambitions of entrepreneurs who are not only harnessing capital but also developing a resilient mindset and a commitment to ongoing learning in a rapidly changing environment.

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

In alignment with a vision to foster the leaders of tomorrow, O West—an integrated community developed by Orascom Development in west Cairo—has collaborated with MO4 Network. This regional front-runner in digital media manages a diverse portfolio of 14 publications and has launched the event series NEXT by O West.

The event featured keynote speaker Steven Bartlett, a prominent entrepreneur and host of the influential podcast ‘The Diary of a CEO’. His narrative of resilience and transformation mirrors the mission of both O West and MO4 Network, which aim to inspire and equip future business leaders with the resources they need to thrive.

Overview of O West

O West is designed to seamlessly blend business, leisure, and residential life across 4.2 million square meters. The urban design prioritizes green spaces and community engagement while offering essential amenities. The development encompasses:

• 11,000 residential units
• A dedicated medical sector
• A commercial district
• Administrative offices within the O Business District
• A health complex
• Four major international schools featuring five different curricula

To augment the living experience, O West incorporates smart infrastructure, including smart roads and security systems that enhance safety for all residents through continuous surveillance and advanced irrigation techniques to optimize water usage.

The O Business District: A Hub for Innovation

Central to O West is the O Business District (OBD), which serves as a dedicated hub for entrepreneurs and professionals. Established in 2019, OBD offers:

• 29,046 square meters of office space
• 707 square meters of retail space

The expansion of OBD in Phase 2 introduces an additional 25,920 square meters, enhancing the area’s appeal with new co-working spaces and vibrant retail options. A notable feature is the new promenade designed to enhance connectivity through pedestrian-friendly pathways, adding lush green areas and convenient seating for relaxation and engagement.

Leadership Perspectives

Omar El Hamamsy, the Group CEO of Orascom Development, emphasized the company’s commitment to creating integrated communities where innovation and growth take center stage. “At Orascom Development, our strategy is built on creating integrated communities where innovation, opportunity, and growth are at the heart of everything we do,” he stated.

He further elaborated on O West’s role as a thriving hub for collaborative efforts among entrepreneurs and creatives, underscoring the importance of initiatives like NEXT by O West in equipping future leaders.

Collaborative Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change

Amy Mowafi, co-founder and CEO of MO4 Network, echoed the sentiment of harnessing stories to drive change in the region. “Our mission is to drive change and create impact through meaningful stories about the people, places, and movements shaping the Middle East today,” she remarked, highlighting the essence of the NEXT event as a platform for connection among visionary thinkers.

Conclusion: A Future of Possibilities

Through strategic initiatives that prioritize modern workspaces, partnerships, and talent development, O West is not merely constructing a community but is also setting the stage for a new generation of innovators. As the O Business District continues to evolve, O West stands at the forefront of business and innovation in the MENA region, ready to nurture the trailblazers of tomorrow.