Summer may be fading, but Cairo is about to light up with one of the city’s most exciting youth events. The Youth Summit 2025 returns on September 19 and 20 at the American University in Cairo, New Cairo campus, under the theme “The Leap”. Think of it less as a conference and more as a two-day festival of ideas, stories, and connections built for Egypt’s Gen Z. Last year’s edition drew thousands, filling halls and workshops with energy and showing just how hungry young people are for spaces that inspire and challenge them.
Something for Everyone
What makes this year’s summit stand out is its diverse guest list. Whether you’re an athlete, a creative, a tech junkie, or someone curious about culture and influence, there’s someone on stage who will speak to you. Expect to see Olympian Yusra Mardini, TV personality Raya Abirached, rising actress Lina Sophia, squash star Ali Farag, Olympian Ahmed El Gendy, and entrepreneur Ahmed Hammouda, founder of Thndr. It’s a lineup designed to resonate with every taste and need.
The Big Conversations
The summit doesn’t shy away from the topics that matter. Over the two days, discussions will span career development, financial literacy, mental health, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Panels on health, wellness, and culture add even more variety, making sure attendees walk away with something valuable and relatable. The tone is practical yet fresh, offering advice, perspective, and real stories.
Breaking Into Gaming: Youth Summit’s First Gaming Panel
For the first time, Youth Summit is dedicating a special panel to breaking into the gaming industry. Moderated by Yara Al Qadi, founder of Kuffitech Ventures, the session brings together 2oolameme’s mastermind, Sarah Abou El Kheir, and Sandra Kawar, Unreal Engine’s chapter lead. It’s a chance for young gamers, creators, and tech enthusiasts to see where their passions can take them in a rapidly growing field.
Pitch Your Startup: Compete for EGP 500,000 in Funding
One of the most anticipated features is the Pitch Your Startup competition, run with Plug & Play. Contestants will present their big ideas, competing for EGP 500,000 in funding alongside mentorship and exposure. For many, it could be the first real step from vision to reality. And even for the audience, it’s a chance to see Egypt’s next waves of innovation before they hit the mainstream.
Beyond Panels: Interactive Spaces & Next Gen Networking
Youth Summit is not just panels and speeches. Interactive spaces bring the event to life, from brand activations and live podcasting to the Next Gen Space, where collaboration takes centre stage. It’s as much about the experience as it is about the content, creating moments that stick long after the weekend ends.
The Leap Awaits
With tickets priced at EGP 490 for a one-day pass and EGP 690 for both days, the summit stays within reach for young people who want to make the most of it. Considering the scope of speakers, workshops, and competitions, it’s an opportunity that’s hard to pass up.
After last year’s buzz and with this year’s expanded programme, Youth Summit 2025 looks ready to deliver another unforgettable weekend. It’s where stories, ambitions, and opportunities collide, leaving Egypt’s Gen Z better connected, inspired, and prepared to take their next leap.
