WAW Logo Summit White


Riyadh Agenda

Thursday 22nd January 2026

Alfaisal University, Riyadh

08:00 – 09:00

Registration, Networking, Meeting and Connections

09:00 – 09:10

Welcome and Setting the Scene

An overview of the day's proceedings from your Co-Chairs
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Mark Rix Pic new small sq-3
WAW Logo Mark
Mark Rix
Group Managing Director, Sonas Group, (Wellbeing at Work)
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Scott Armstrong
Founder & CEO, mentl
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09:10 – 09:30
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Keynote Introduction

Welcome from Afaisal University
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Dr. Baraa Alghalyini
Vice Dean of the College of Medicine and Chair of the Family and Community Medicine Department
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09:30 – 10:10

Leadership Panel – Wellbeing as the Power Behind Organisational Performance

What is the association between workplace wellbeing and company performance? Beyond ROI, what are the true measures of wellbeing on performance? Where does emotional insight fit when building positive workplace cultures for business impact? What is the value of designing wellbeing programs as integrated experiences that are embedded throughout the employee journey? How can employers truly help people thrive and grow?
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Helene Gaubert
Director – Corporate Talent Acquisition, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib
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Faisal Shujrah
Regional Health Promotion Lead – Asia (AsiaPac/MEA), GSK
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Dr. Rania Ghamdi
Director of Talent Learning and Potential, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare
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Zainab Maghrabi
Leader of Strategy of Capability Development + Organizational Transformation, Saudi Geological Survey
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Your Expert Panel Chair:

To be announced shortly
10:10 - 10:40

Morning Refreshments & Conversation

10:40 – 11:05
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Artificial Intelligence, Data and Personalization as the Power for Employee Wellbeing

How can employers use AI, data and personalization to ensure wellbeing at work equates to high performance and improved productivity? What more can be done to increase positive outcomes that ensure reduced burnout numbers, high performing teams and increased inclusion through AI? How does AI identify where groups are being left out and create wellbeing programs where all can thrive?
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Dakheel AlOtaibi
Group CHRO, AlJeri Investment
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11:05 – 11:35
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The National Wellbeing Index

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Prof. Ahmed Albadry
Director of Occupational Health, Tawuniya
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11:35 – 12:35

Leadership Workshops

A selection of 'Hosted' workshops showcasing the latest solutions and innovation in employee wellbeing and mental health strategies

1 - Alfaisal University

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4 - VIWELL

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2 - Tawuniya

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3 - Pempal

5 -

To be announced
12:35 – 13:15

Lunch & Conversation Time

13:15 – 13:30

Audience Energiser

13:30 – 13:45
Paul-Firth

Psychological Safety and it’s impact on workplace wellbeing

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Paul Firth
Founder Lyra Wellbeing
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13:45 – 14:15
Qaisar-Iqbal

Building the Neuroinclusive Workplace

What is the impact of inclusive leadership on workplace avoidance behaviours for neurodivergent employees? How can organizations create inclusive and productive workplaces where neurodivergent employees can thrive? What can organizations do to optimize their workplaces to facilitate wellness and advancement for neurodivergent professionals? Why is it critical for leaders to accept and adopt neuroinclusive practices?
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Qaisar Iqbal
Post Doctoral Fellow, IRCFD, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals
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14:15 – 14:55

Leadership Panel - Beyond the Backlash

Where does wellbeing intersect with diversity, inclusion or equity? How do organisations achieve wellbeing for all employees? What are some examples that show why wellbeing needs to be addressed from an equity standpoint? How do organisations transcend DEI from the leadership to all employees?
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Reem Algasim
Head Human Resources, Signify
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14:55 - 15:20

Beyond Burnout - The High-Impact Blueprint for a Thriving Workforce

Root Cause & Strategic Approach. Transitioning from reactive fixes to preventative strategies, building a resilient and thriving culture .ROI-Focused Insights. Data linking wellbeing programs to higher productivity, stronger retention, and improved employer branding, giving HR leaders clear justification for investment. A practical roadmap and Real case studies with focus on the three core pillars—mental resilience, physical vitality, and emotional/social wellbeing. Quick wins and long-term strategies for impactful and measurable outcomes.
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VIWELL
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15:20 - 15:30
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Closing Remarks

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Mark Rix
Group Managing Director, Sonas Group, Wellbeing at Work
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15:30 – 16:30

Networking Reception