WELCOME TO THE FAST COMPANY IMPACT COUNCIL
Fast Company Middle East’s Impact Council is an invitation-only collective of innovative leaders and the most creative people in business. The group meets several times a year to discuss some of the greatest opportunities and most pressing challenges we face today.
The Impact Council serves as a platform for companies and council members to shape the future. Key conversations are spotlighted on www.fastcompanyme.com and feature special print articles with insights from its annual meeting.
Participation is open only to members based in the Middle East. Membership is by invitation and non-transferable.
MEMBERSHIP
1. Share your knowledge, insights, and perspectives
Imagine that the Impact Council is your business think tank—a body of the most inventive founders, energetic CEOs, designers and artists, and visionaries—coming together to share knowledge, ideas, and perspectives on business, society, innovation, and design.
2. Convene at the annual council meeting
Council members gather for a full day of open discussions and roundtables to highlight members’ viewpoints on the most urgent business and societal issues. These conversations will form a blueprint for Fast Company Middle East’s coverage across 2023 and beyond.
3. Take part in webinars and virtual visits
Curated by Fast Company Middle East, these intimate gatherings allow you to mingle, ideate, and build relationships with council members and special guests.
4. Create lasting relationships with Fast Company Middle East’s editorial team
As a council member, Fast Company Middle East’s editors will heavily rely on your expertise, acumen, and perspectives. You will be featured prominently in the print issue alongside other members.
5. Enjoy complimentary access to Fast Company Middle East’s events and discounts to apply for recognition programs
Our team is dedicated to creating a curated experience for members who participate in Fast Company Middle East events. Additionally, members will have the chance to nominate themselves or others as potential speakers for these events.
Impact Council members are eligible for discounted application fees for Fast Company Middle East’s recognition programs, such as Most Innovative Companies and World Changing Ideas. This discount applies to their companies and the companies they support as investors or board members.
SUB-COMMITTEES
Focused on specific industries act as a think tank—a body of the most inventive founders, energetic CEOs, designers and artists, and visionaries.
1. PR, Advertising & Media
PR, advertising, and media are evolving as technology, data, and audience expectations reshape the landscape. AI-driven insights are refining targeting, AR/VR is redefining storytelling, and media platforms are adapting to changing consumption habits. Yet, as automation accelerates, the real challenge remains: how do brands, publishers, and platforms maintain credibility and foster trust in an era of information overload? The next phase of communication will require a shift in how brands engage, innovate, and ensure authenticity in a rapidly changing media environment.
2. Jobs and Skills in the Age of AI
AI and automation are fundamentally reshaping the workforce, forcing businesses to rethink not only how work is done, but who does it and why. As generative AI, automation, and sustainability take center stage, companies must build teams that are not just skilled, but agile and adaptable. This shift goes beyond reskilling; it requires a reimagining of roles across HR, finance, IT, and marketing. The key to navigating these changes lies in creating agile, cross-functional teams that thrive in an ever-evolving environment.
3. Artificial intelligence
After dominating headlines, generative AI is no longer a novelty—it’s now embedded in businesses and governments across the Middle East. With AI expected to contribute $320 billion to the region’s economy by 2030, the conversation is shifting from experimentation to execution. As the buzz around AI quiets, business leaders must confront key questions: Are organizations ready to fully implement AI? How can we ensure its ethical and responsible deployment? Who is accountable for its outcomes? The successful integration of AI will depend on aligning ethical frameworks, accountability, and strategic adoption across industries to secure long-term impact.
4. Retail
Retail is transforming with an emphasis on sustainability, personalization, and immersive shopping experiences. Technology is enabling smarter shopping habits—whether through direct-to-consumer brands or AI-driven customization—but today’s consumers expect more: transparency, ethical practices, and environmental responsibility. This subcommittee will explore how the retail industry can balance cutting-edge innovation with a renewed focus on consumer trust and sustainable growth.
5. Travel & Tourism
Travel is no longer just about movement—it’s about meaning. Today’s travelers are looking for more than just destinations—they want authentic experiences, personal connections, and sustainable practices. From regenerative tourism to smart destination management, the way we explore is evolving. Digital tools are enhancing accessibility, and immersive technologies are reshaping our engagement with the world. This subcommittee will dive into how the industry can transform not just travel, but the very essence of exploration itself—blending innovation with purpose.
6. Cybersecurity
As digital transformation accelerates, cybersecurity is evolving into a proactive, strategic function. As AI-powered attacks, ransomware, and supply chain threats grow more sophisticated, organizations can’t afford to play catch-up. This subcommittee will tackle what’s next: quantum-resistant encryption, zero-trust frameworks, and the intersection of cybersecurity and AI. But tech alone isn’t enough. The real differentiator? Talent, cross-sector collaboration, and a cyber-aware culture that embeds security into every decision.
7. Web
The internet is entering a new phase, driven by decentralization, immersive experiences, and AI-powered interactions. Web3, the metaverse, and next-generation content platforms are redefining how people connect, transact, and consume information. But with greater digital freedom comes new challenges—privacy concerns, misinformation, and regulatory uncertainty. The future of the web depends on striking the right balance between innovation, governance, and user empowerment, ensuring that it remains open, secure, and inclusive.
8. Digital Commerce
E-commerce is no longer about browsing and buying—it’s about ecosystems, intelligence, and immersion. The lines between content, community, and commerce are vanishing as social shopping, direct-to-avatar transactions, and AI-driven personal concierges redefine consumer behavior. From ultra-personalized experiences powered by generative AI to decentralized payment models and tokenized loyalty, the new era of commerce isn’t just digital—it’s dynamic. But with innovation comes friction: data privacy battles, the collapse of third-party cookies, and the question of whether hyper-convenience is eroding brand loyalty. The future of commerce will belong to those who don’t just sell but create experiences that seamlessly blend trust, tech, and culture.
PARTNERSHIP
Integrated sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact, Fast Company Middle East Director Business Strategy Abhinav@fastcompanyme.com