SEF Backstage Pass

Why do Palestinians keep dancing, creating, and giving birth—amid war and destruction? In this moving episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, we sit down with journalist and writer Plestia Alaqad, who courageously reported from Gaza during the war. 📲 Catch the full episode now and hit subscribe to hear more powerful stories from the visionaries building tomorrow. Brought to you by the SEF Back...

في هذه الحلقة العميقة من بودكاست SEF Backstage Pass، يستضيف البودكاست الدكتور أحمد عمارة، استشاري الصحة النفسية والطاقة الحيوية، ليفكك معنا أكبر الأكاذيب التي تربينا عليها: أن السعادة هي الهدف، وأن الوظيفة هي الغاية. من الفرق بين المتعة والسعادة، إلى كيف نكتشف رسالتنا الحقيقية في الحياة، يأخذنا د. عمارة في رحلة من الوعي والإلهام، يتحدث فيها أيضاً عن ريادة الأعمال الحقيقية، وكيف أن من يتمرد على الو...

In this powerful conversation, Kuwaiti influencer and entrepreneur Noha Nabil shares her journey from TV host to social media pioneer to founder of Noha Nabil Beauty—a brand inspired by the richness of Arab identity. 📲 Watch the full episode now and subscribe for more stories from visionary leaders shaping the future. This episode is part of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, proudly created in part...

How does a classically trained harpist go from performing in hotel lobbies to founding one of the region’s most influential entertainment agencies? In this inspiring episode, Shelley Frost—Founder & Director of The Fridge —shares her 27-year journey in the UAE. From creating opportunities where none existed, to reshaping the cultural and musical landscape, Shelley reflects on what it means to...

From chasing a childhood dream to becoming a Grand Slam champion, Sania Mirza shares her journey of resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose beyond the court. In this inspiring episode, she opens up about the sacrifices behind the wins, what drives her after retirement, and why dreaming big is just the beginning. 📲 Listen, get inspired, and let us know what resonated most with you in the comm...

What makes us human? Is AI conscious? Will machines ever feel emotions? In this mind-expanding conversation, Mo Gawdat—author, tech visionary, and former Chief Business Officer at Google X—dives deep into some of the biggest questions of our time. From exploring the true meaning of consciousness and life, to discussing whether AI could develop emotions or even a spiritual purpose, this episode wil...

انضموا إلينا في هذه الحلقة الخاصة مع الفنان المصري المحبوب حمزة نمرة، ضمن مهرجان الشارقة لريادة الأعمال 2025. يتحدث حمزة بكل صدق عن رحلته الشخصية مع القلق، وكيف كانت الموسيقى وسيلته للتعبير والعلاج، ولماذا يبقى الفن هو اللغة العالمية للتواصل بين البشر. 🎧 شاهدوا الحلقة الآن ولا تنسوا الاشتراك لمزيد من القصص الملهمة من بودكاست SEF Backstage Pass. زوروا قناتنا على يوتيوب لمشاهدة الحلقة كاملة، وتابعو...

From her home kitchen to 10 thriving locations (and counting!) In this inspiring conversation, Hind Almulla, Founder of Home Bakery, shares how she turned her passion into a brand loved across the region — starting with the accidental creation of her signature Chewy Melt Cookie. She opens up about staying true to her vision, overcoming backlash, and building a business while raising four kids. Now...

The SEF Backstage Pass Podcast hosts Thierry Henry like you’ve never seen him before. In this raw and honest conversation at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2025, the football legend opened up about leadership, ego, investing in yourself, and adapting to a new generation—on and off the pitch. 🎙️ This is the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast — where stories of vision, grit, and growth come to life. Watc...

From a JLT balcony to UAE’s top brisket spot! Ahmed & Malek, the visionary brothers behind Mr. Brisket, share their inspiring journey of resilience, passion, and business growth. Discover how they turned a food truck dream into a thriving brand in the competitive F&B industry.

The future of education is here! Raya Bidshari, founder of School of Humanity, discusses how her groundbreaking approach to learning is shaping the next generation. No exams, no outdated curriculums—just real-world, personalized education. Don’t miss this game-changing conversation! 

How do you transform an entire industry? Pradeep Mallavarappu, co-founder of Trucker, reveals how his innovative platform is reshaping logistics in the MENA region. Tune in to learn about the challenges, successes, and the future of smart trucking! 

Redefining ice cream with House of Pops! CEO & Co-founder Mazen shares how he combined health, sustainability, and pure ingredients to create a thriving brand.  From plastic-free packaging to global expansion, this is a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

From the grill to the boardroom, Hattem Mattar shares his journey of blending passion with business to build a barbecue empire. Discover how he turned his love for smoked meats into a thriving brand and what it takes to succeed in the culinary world. Don’t miss this sizzling conversation! 

Balancing career success and mental well-being is no easy feat. Asma Al Suwaidi, founder of Art of Being, explores emotional resilience, corporate wellness, and the importance of prioritizing self-care in high-performance environments. Tune in for insights on sustaining mental well-being in today’s fast-paced world! 

How will AI reshape industries, productivity, and the way we work?  In this episode of SEF Backstage Pass, we sit down with Dr. Ahmed Ghanim Al-Ali, co-founder of Deep Opinion AI, to explore the impact of automation, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge technology on the future of business. 

What does it take to build a health-conscious brand in a competitive market? Rashed Al Mulla, founder of Frio Sparkling Water, shares how he disrupted the beverage industry with sustainability, innovation, and community-driven business strategies. A must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs! 

From banking to entrepreneurship, Rawan Baddour shares how Zest Equity is empowering entrepreneurs and transforming private markets. Tune in to SEF Backstage Pass to hear her inspiring story of innovation, impact, and building trust in venture ecosystems. Part of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024! 

Revolutionize your understanding of coffee with Ali Al Ibrahim, founder of Coffee App, on the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast! Learn how Ali is transforming the global coffee market, empowering farmers, and redefining loyalty programs. Recorded during the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024, this episode blends culture, innovation, and passion for a better future. 

Discover how Adil Hussain is redefining masculinity and fostering connection through Brotherhood UAE. Join us on SEF Backstage Pass as we explore his journey of transformation, vulnerability, and creating a safe space for men to heal and grow. Part of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024! 

Discover the inspiring journey of Mohit Kumar, founder of UltraHuman, as he redefines health tech and wearables. From launching groundbreaking glucose monitors to achieving profitability, this episode dives deep into the innovation and determination behind the brand. Part of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024.

Explore the evolution of startup funding in the UAE with Kushal Shah, a trailblazer in angel investing and corporate venture capital. Gain insights into his journey, lessons learned, and vision for building a thriving investment ecosystem. Exclusive to the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024.

Join Adam Ridgeway, the visionary behind One Moto, as he explores the future of sustainable mobility. Learn how he’s transforming last-mile delivery with electric vehicles and pioneering innovation on a global scale. A must-watch from the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024.

What does it take to build a trillion-dollar ultra-platform in the Middle East? Astra Tech’s Abdallah Abu Sheikh shares his bold vision for digital sovereignty, AI disruption, and why the region needs its own super app. From bootstrapping to raising millions, this episode is a masterclass in scaling big ideas!

Discover how Payal Kadakia turned her passion for dance into the billion-dollar fitness platform ClassPass on the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast! From her multicultural upbringing to redefining creativity and goal-setting, Payal shares invaluable insights on entrepreneurship and impact. This episode, part of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024, is a must-watch for dreamers and doers!