Social Action Award finalists

Dr. Thaib Alharethi has positively influenced human capital in Saudi Arabia through his involvement in educational initiatives, leadership in research projects, and contributions to national development efforts. His activities in teaching, consulting, volunteering, and conference engagements, supported by his UK educational experience, have played a crucial role in enriching the professional community and fostering industry growth.

Dr. Thaib Alharethi's time at the University of Surrey was distinguished by a rich tapestry of teaching and volunteering opportunities, alongside access to high-quality research and a supportive community. This environment, coupled with the acquisition of unique skills and knowledge, provided a holistic educational experience with a lasting impact on his professional and personal development.

Dr. Alharethi is keen to gently expand his influence in enhancing Saudi Arabia's tourism education and research, aiming for subtle yet meaningful collaborations that elevate the industry's standards and global presence.

Dr. Abdulmalik Alkhunini is an academic and expert in the field of autism and inclusion at Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University in Saudi Arabia. He has also worked as a consultant at the Education Development Trust in the UK. His roles encompass research, teaching, and consulting in the field of autism and inclusion, along with delivering academic courses and supervising postgraduate students. His work and research align with the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in providing inclusive and high-quality services for individuals with autism.

Being in a diverse city like Bristol, Dr. Abdulmalik's education enhanced his capacity to promote inclusivity and diversity and shaped his understanding of the political, economic, and educational dynamics of inclusion. He left the University of Bristol with more than a PhD; he gained a network of first-class mentors, exposure to international conferences, and experience that solidified his role as an acadmic and consultant. He emphasises diversity and inclusion in academic and policymaking contexts, particularly in supporting individuals with autism.

Dr. Abdulmalik is currently employing his expertise across academic and professional centres both domestically and internationally. He has collaborated in various academic and social initiatives, including higher education, government, and both profit and non-profit organisations such as Education Development Trust in the UK, King Salman Centre for Disability Research, Gulf Health Council, and Education and Training Evaluation Commission in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Abdulmalik will continue to engage in research and support policymakers, institutions, and governments to promote practices and policies that provide high-quality services and encourage inclusion for individuals with autism.

She served now as Vice Dean of the College of Computing for Development and Quality, where her current duties include creating a development plan for 25 college employees, 220 faculty members, and 3,700 students.

She previously served as dean of the College of Computing for the female section for three years, from 2020 to 2023. 

She was awarded the Excellence in Leadership Award (Second place) by my employer, Umm Al-Qura University, in recognition of her management efforts at the college's female student section and for developing a management plan for empowering female employees and involving them in college activities. Under her direct management, there were 16 female employees and more than 90 faculty members. Moreover, she supervised more than 40 initiatives and activities that benefited more than 3,000 male and female students studying at her university during the last 5 years. 

Her studies in Britain were enriched by many different experiences, she developed her management and leadership skills, adaptability to dealing with different personalities, and creating initiatives.

Ahd now aspires to lead at a higher level than before, make a change, and develop it by empowering its human cadres and creating initiatives that improve its outputs.