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22, Jan 2025
Entrepreneur in Residence: Lessons from Atyab Al-Marshoud’s Global Journey
The College of Business and Economics (CBE) at AUK hosted Mr. Marshoud Al-Marshoud, the Executive Manager of Atyab Al Marshoud, a multi-generation family business, for a talk as part of the Entrepreneur in Residence Series. The late Sulaiman Al-Marshoud, founded Atyab Al Marshoud in Kuwait in 1925, as the first fragrance company to be established in the Gulf. 
 
His legacy has been carried on by his family over the decades, with the younger generation of the family successfully adding a modern edge to its frangrances, without losing the historic and traditional aspects of the business. The company opened its first international store in Knightsbridge, London and over the last 10 years, the company has expanded to over 86 branches across the globe. 
 
Mr. Marshoud Al-Marshoud discussed the perfume industry and anecdotes related to his international expansion efforts. He also discussed key factors that resulted in the success of the company and gave advice to students about starting and running their own businesses.
 
Mr. Al-Marshoud also stressed that failure in business should not be taken as an insult to one’s character. He shared that most successful people have failed more often than they have succeeded. He encouraged students to view failure as a natural part of the journey and to not to let setbacks hinder personal growth.
 
His main advice was for aspiring entrepreneurs to start with one product. “Bring in a large quantity, sell it, and build from there. This approach is simple, cost-effective, and allows for easy marketing. The product doesn't necessarily need to be your personal preference; instead, focus on what the market needs. Starting with a single, focused product helps keep costs low and provides a clear path to profit.”
 
Mr. Al-Marshoud advised that when building a business, it's important to avoid focusing on competitors, as this can be detrimental. "If you follow them, you will drown," he warned. Instead, he recommended studying competitors for research and development, not for sales strategies. He concluded that maintaining stability and continuity in the market is one of the most challenging aspects of running a successful business.
 
Mr. Al-Marshoud, along with his father, are committed to expanding their company’s charitable initiatives. Recognizing the blessings of their success, Mr. Al-Marshoud aims to place philanthropy at the core of the company’s mission, striving to make a lasting impact on the Kuwaiti society and beyond.
 
The Entrepreneur in Residence series aims to invite local entrepreneurs to share their experiences and business acumen with students and to foster stronger ties with the Kuwaiti business world.
   
   
    

Mr. Marshoud Al-Marshoud speaking at the Entrepreneur in Residence Series
   

General Photo of the audience
   

Group photo of the attendees with the speaker
  

Mr. Marshoud receiving a certificate of appreciation from Dr. Salime Smadi, professor of organizational behavior at AUK, and founder of the series
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Entrepreneur in Residence: Lessons from Atyab Al-Marshoud’s Global Journey
22, Jan 2025
Innovative Learning in Action: Branding Class Partners with Rcyte Strategy Studio
Dr. Shihanah AlMutairi recently collaborated with Rcyte Strategy Studio, founded by alumnus Maitham Al-Sarraf, for her branding class’s end-of-term project. Rcyte developed a fictional yet detailed narrative around an energy drink called Solace, which served as the foundation for the project. This initiative required students to work in groups, acting as branding agencies to conduct an in-depth brand audit. Their tasks included evaluating Solace’s brand awareness, differentiation, and emotional connection with its target audience. By bridging theoretical branding concepts with real-world applications, the project provided students with invaluable practical learning experience.

Students were given three weeks to complete the project, culminating in comprehensive group presentations. Among the participating groups, ADS Group stood out for their exceptional performance. Comprised of Aamnah Al-Qatami, Dana Khalifa, and Saba Bsaiso, the group was recognized for their innovative analysis and strategic recommendations. Their outstanding work earned them certificates of achievement awarded by Rcyte.

This partnership also marked the launch of Rcyte’s Beyond Aesthetics Program, an initiative designed to move participants beyond superficial branding elements and toward deeper conceptual and strategic narratives. This aligns seamlessly with the College of Business and Economics’ commitment to innovative and experiential learning approaches. Furthermore, it highlights the College’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections with alumni, bridging the gap between industry and academia.

Collaborations like this not only enrich student learning but also reflect the success of alumni in giving back to their alma mater. By engaging with industry experts, the College continues to provide students with valuable opportunities to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges, setting a strong precedent for future partnerships.
 
 
 
Photos of students receiving certificates for their outstanding work
   

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Innovative Learning in Action: Branding Class Partners with Rcyte Strategy Studio
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21, Jan 2025
Experiential Learning in Action with MGMT 201
Students from the Principles of Management (MGMT 201) class participated in an enriching and interactive event at Shaheed Park with their professor, Dr. Fahad Al-Khashti, lecturer of marketing at the College of Business and Economics. The event, organized under the theme of experiential learning, provided students with an opportunity to apply their management knowledge in a dynamic and engaging environment.

The students embarked on a guided exploration of the park, interacting with volunteers stationed at key locations. The volunteers, composed of students from Dr. Fahad’s senior classes, played a crucial role in facilitating the activity. Each volunteer group presented the students with management-related questions covering key topics from their coursework. Correct answers earned the participants clues, which they then solved to locate the next set of volunteers within the park. This sequential structure not only added an element of excitement but also reinforced their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

The event at Shaheed Park exemplified the integration of fun and learning. Through this initiative, students not only strengthened their understanding of management principles but also developed soft skills essential for their future professional endeavors.
 
 
 
General photos of the students' trip to Shaheed Park
 
 

Experiential Learning in Action with MGMT 201
20, Jan 2025
Psychological Well-Being Across Borders: Cultural Perspectives on Crisis Response
AUK held a new session of the Faculty Speaker Series (FSS) featuring AUK faculty, Dr. Rita W. El-Haddad, associate professor of graphic design & Dr. Stavros P. Hadjisolomou, associate professor of psychology.
 
The talk focused on their joint research project on how individuals across different cultures respond emotionally to distant yet threatening global events. The Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022, created a unique opportunity to examine this question through empirical research. AUK's contribution showcases the importance of incorporating diverse regional perspectives in understanding global psychological phenomena. This research emphasizes the importance of considering cultural and individual differences in psychological resilience, while offering evidence-based insights for crisis intervention strategies in an increasingly interconnected world.
 
The key takeaways from the research include the effects of such events vary widely across countries and individuals, with those in more stable regions or with greater personal stability often experiencing different outcomes. Additionally, exposure to negative news on social media plays a significant role in shaping well-being, highlighting the need for media awareness during times of crisis. The research also underscores the importance of tailored solutions, as one-size-fits-all interventions have proven ineffective; instead, culturally sensitive and personalized approaches are crucial for addressing diverse needs. Moving forward, it is essential to track well-being beyond the immediate phases of a crisis to assess long-term impacts and identify effective interventions. Finally, global collaboration is key, with expanded international research partnerships offering a broader understanding of how crises affect individuals worldwide.
 
The talk attracted not only AUK’s community but also members of the general public. Their enthusiasm added a dynamic layer to the event, as they engaged deeply with the concepts and posed thoughtful questions. This interaction exemplified the Faculty Speaker Series’ ability to bridge academic discourse with broader community engagement. 
 
The session concluded with a one-on-one interaction between Dr. Stavros, Dr. Rita, and attendees, fostering further dialogue on the research matter and inspiring a shared passion for discovery.
 
 
 

Dr. Stavros and Dr. Rita during their talk
  

Group photo of the session’s attendees
Psychological Well-Being Across Borders: Cultural Perspectives on Crisis Response
19, Jan 2025
AUK Delegation Excels at Prestigious International MUN Event
AUK's Model United Nations (AUKMUN) delegation proudly represented the University at the renowned Georgetown Qatar Model United Nations (MUN) Conference, where they showcased exceptional diplomacy, teamwork, and intellectual rigor.
 
The conference gathered student delegations from around the world to engage in in-depth debates and propose solutions to pressing global issues. AUKMUN participants stood out for their impressive performance and commitment to global diplomacy throughout the event.
 
A key highlight of the conference was Mona Al-Asousi’s recognition with an Honorable Mention in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for her outstanding representation of Bangladesh. Her articulate and thoughtful contributions were praised by fellow delegates and conference organizers alike.
 
The participation in the Georgetown Qatar MUN Conference reflects AUK's ongoing dedication to fostering leadership, critical thinking, and global citizenship among its students. The University commends the entire delegation for their outstanding representation on this prestigious international platform.
 
The AUKMUN delegation included:
  • Aysha AlAsousi representing Australia in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
  • Noor Alzubaidi representing Yemen in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
  • Aya Elhardello representing the United States of America in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  • Batoul Albou Sabih representing Bolivia in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  • Mona AlAsousi representing Bangladesh in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  • Carolina Aboul Hosn representing Iran in the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
  • Mariam Abusharkh representing the United States of America in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
  • Ahmad Kanaan representing Argentina in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) 
Each member of the delegation demonstrated AUK's commitment to cultivating informed, engaged global citizens capable of addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.
 
 
 

Group photo of the AUKMUN delegation at the conference
AUK Delegation Excels at Prestigious International MUN Event
16, Jan 2025
AUK Leads the Way in Healthcare Innovation Aligned with Vision 2035
The Office of Research and Grants (ORG) at AUK hosted a special panel discussion as part of the AUK Health Innovation & Research Partnership Summit. This event brought together leading professionals to explore advancements in healthcare, engineering, and artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting their impact on healthcare delivery in Kuwait.
 
The session opened with welcoming remarks from Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, Director of ORG, who outlined the summit’s objectives and its alignment with Kuwait's Vision 2035 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Following this, AUK President Dr. Rawda Awwad delivered an inspiring address, underscoring the University’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and addressing societal challenges through research and innovation.
 
The panel featured five distinguished experts from diverse fields, each offering valuable insights into healthcare innovation. Panelists included Dr. Adeeba Al-Herz, Consultant in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology; Dr. Ghaydaa Aldabie, Senior Specialist at Farwaniya Hospital; Dr. Najla Alsiri, Assistant Professor at Kuwait University; renowned Clinical Cardiologist Dr. Rajesh Rajan; and Dr. Belal Gharaibeh, Associate Professor at AUK.
 
The discussion covered several pivotal areas of healthcare innovation. Key topics included the transformative role of AI in personalized medicine, where panelists explored how AI utilizes genetic, lifestyle, and clinical data, alongside real-time health monitoring through wearable technologies, to tailor treatments. The rise of telemedicine, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, was another focus, with panelists examining its potential to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery while addressing privacy and ethical challenges. The importance of research-driven collaboration with policymakers and stakeholders was also emphasized, with successful initiatives such as Kuwait’s smart drug programs highlighted as examples of effective partnerships.
 
The event reinforced AUK’s dedication to advancing research and innovation through collaborative efforts. By bridging academic expertise with professional practice, AUK continues to make meaningful contributions to Kuwait’s national development goals and global sustainability objectives.
 
 
 

General photo of the audience
   

Group photo of the panelists with Dr. Ahmad Alsaber, Director of ORG
  

Group photo of the panelists
  

Group photo of the panelists with Dr. Ahmad Alsaber and AUK President Dr. Rawda Awwad
AUK Leads the Way in Healthcare Innovation Aligned with Vision 2035
13, Jan 2025
CBE Students Celebrate Diversity with Culture Showcase
The Culture showcase is an awareness initiative where students from the College of Business and Economics (CBE) explore and profile a country through the lens of cultural theory, showcasing its unique traits, artifacts, cuisine, clothing, and other cultural elements. This activity forms an integral part of the International Business (BUS321) course curriculum, which emphasizes fostering a neutral understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures worldwide.

For the second time, this exercise was transformed into a showcase event open to the entire university community. Students independently selected 20 countries from across the world, with no assignments dictated by the instructor. Their impressive creativity and dedication were evident in the initiative they displayed, presenting a rich and engaging array of cultural items and perspectives.

Participating students explained their approaches to represent their chosen countries:
Palestine “Representing Palestine at the Cultural Day event was a very meaningful experience for our team. We used Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions and Hall’s Context theories to explore Palestinian heritage, as it guided us through how we presented ourselves at the booth. We focused on symbols and visuals that highlight its deep cultural roots, and to bring the culture to life at our booth, we wore traditional kaftans and kuffiyehs, served authentic Palestinian food, and displayed traditional ornaments, with music in the background to set the scene. Participating alongside booths from other countries, this experience showed us how cultural awareness can help us work better together in diverse environments.” Muneera AlJuwaied, Tala Khalil, Zahraa El Husseini

Lebanon “Thank you for your kind words and for recognizing our efforts in the first-level culture showcase. It was truly a rewarding experience for our team. Winning the first-level culture showcase was more than just a victory—it was a celebration of identity, passion, and unity. Representing Lebanon’s rich heritage was an incredible honor and a transformative experience. Through this journey, we didn’t just showcase Lebanon’s culture; we immersed ourselves in its essence, shared its stories, and wove its vibrant spirit into a narrative that resonated far and wide. This exercise taught us that culture transcends borders—it’s about connection, curiosity, and fostering mutual respect. We are proud to have been entrusted with the responsibility of telling Lebanon’s story and hope our efforts inspired others to embrace the beauty of diversity and cultural exchange.” Silvia , Yara , Jenin

Mexico "For many of us it was a surprise that Mexico has high context and so many intricate characteristics that vary from state to state and even through time itself! This is why we chose to present the Hofstede through the lens of Frida Kahlo, a famous Mexican personality who stood out as a renowned artist that challenged  the power distance and masculinity aspects in Mexico through her art and creatively incorporated elements of the day of the dead which reflects the culture’s way of dealing with uncertainty avoidance. Overall, it was a fun and enriching experience for all of us as a team." Jinan Said Salim Al-Harrasi, Mariam Y R D Saif, Shahad Y Y M A Alshamali, and Melora Noronha  
 
  
 

CBE students representing the Palestine display
   

CBE students representing the Mexico display
  

CBE students representing the Egypt display
  

CBE students representing the USA display
CBE Students Celebrate Diversity with Culture Showcase
13, Jan 2025
AUK Students Drive Innovation for a Sustainable Future
Students from the College of Business and Economics at AUK recently took part in EY Ripples, a global initiative aimed at addressing climate change. This event provided a platform for students to collaborate in teams, brainstorming innovative solutions tailored to local needs. Their efforts were aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Kuwait Vision 2035, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the region.

Mubarak AlAli, an accounting major student, shared his enthusiasm about the experience, "It was an incredible experience to be part of such a forward-thinking initiative. We had the opportunity to apply our university knowledge to real-world challenges and collaborate with like-minded peers. It was truly inspiring to see the creativity and passion of our team as we worked towards a more sustainable future."

 
This event not only highlighted the students' commitment to a greener future but also underscored the practical application of their academic knowledge. The participation of AUK students in EY Ripples is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and innovation. It showcases their potential to drive positive change and highlights the importance of integrating sustainability into education. As these students continue to develop their skills and knowledge, they are well-positioned to become the next generation of leaders committed to creating a sustainable future.

This initiative not only benefits the students but also serves as an inspiration to the wider community, demonstrating the power of education and collaboration in addressing global challenges. The creativity and passion displayed by the AUK students are a promising sign of the positive impact they will have on the world.
 
 
 
General photos of the event
  

AUK Students Drive Innovation for a Sustainable Future
22, Dec 2024
KIPCO University Championship Concludes a Thrilling Fall Semester for the 2024/2025 Season
The KIPCO University Championship, proudly sponsored by the Kuwait Olympic Committee and Kuwait Projects Company (Holding) - KIPCO, came to a triumphant conclusion after an exciting fall semester filled with intense competition. The highly anticipated event brought together over 200 student-athletes from four prestigious universities—the American University of Kuwait (AUK), the Australian University (AU), Box Hill College, and the International University of Kuwait (IUK)—to compete in women’s volleyball, men’s volleyball, and women’s soccer. Jaber Thamer Al-Sabah, representing the Kuwait Olympic Committee, said, “The Kuwait Olympic Committee is immensely proud to sponsor the KIPCO University Championship, one of the most significant initiatives aimed at enhancing university sports in Kuwait and developing young talents in a competitive and distinguished environment. This sponsorship stems from the Committee’s national commitment to supporting sports at all levels and encouraging young athletic talents, believing in the importance of investing in youth potential to achieve a bright sporting future for Kuwait.” Also commenting on the significance of this championship, Abdullah Al-Khudari, KIPCO Assistant Manager of Corporate Communications & IR, remarked, “KIPCO is committed to supporting youth through various initiatives and activities. We are pleased to sponsor the KIPCO University Championship and to contribute to the development of competitive sports at the university level in Kuwait, stemming from our firm belief in the importance of sports and its significant role in benefiting students and society as a whole. We would also like to extend our gratitude to all participating universities, particularly the American University of Kuwait, for their excellent organization of the fall semester competitions of this season.”

The championship showcased inspiring performances, with the Australian University taking home top honors in both men’s volleyball and women’s soccer, while Box Hill College emerged victorious in women’s volleyball. The American University of Kuwait delivered strong and consistent results, earning second place across all tournaments, reinforcing its reputation for sporting excellence. Each match was marked by high-level competition, teamwork, and unforgettable moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Dr. Abdurrahman Al Farhan, Vice President of Student Affairs at the American University of Kuwait, stated, “This championship has provided an outstanding platform for our students to demonstrate their talent, resilience, and sportsmanship. The American University of Kuwait is proud to be part of an event that fosters excellence and builds lasting connections among universities.”

The KIPCO University Championship has cemented its status as a cornerstone event for collegiate athletics in Kuwait. Beyond the trophies and accolades, the championship has built bridges between universities, showcased the country’s wealth of young talent, and demonstrated the immense potential of sports as a unifying force. Hussain Al-Hadad, Director of Student Life at the Australian University, expressed, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the American University of Kuwait for their exceptional organization of the KIPCO University Championship. This tournament has played a pivotal role in fostering a spirit of sportsmanship among students and has highlighted the value of sports in developing essential life skills. We also deeply appreciate the sponsors for their unwavering support.”

The legacy of the 2024 KIPCO University Championship stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of Kuwait’s youth.
 
 
 
General photos of the tournament and closing ceremony
  
  

KIPCO University Championship Concludes a Thrilling Fall Semester for the 2024/2025 Season
19, Dec 2024
AUK Delegation Excels at Prestigious International MUN Event
AUK's Model United Nations (AUKMUN) delegation proudly represented the university at the prestigious Georgetown Qatar MUN Conference.

The conference, hosted by Georgetown University in Qatar, brought together student delegations from across the globe to engage in debates and propose solutions to pressing global issues. AUKMUN showcased exceptional diplomacy, teamwork, and intellectual rigor throughout the event.
 
A special highlight of the conference was student Mona AlAsousi receiving an Honorable Mention in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for her exemplary performance and articulate representation of Bangladesh.
 
The participation in Georgetown Qatar MUN is part of AUK’s ongoing commitment to fostering leadership, critical thinking, and global citizenship among its students. The University commends the entire delegation for their outstanding performance on this international platform.
 
The delegation included:
  
Aysha AlAsousi representing Australia in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
  
Noor Alzubaidi representing Yemen in the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
  
Aya Elhardello representing United States of America in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  
Batoul Albou Sabih representing Bolivia in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  
Mona AlAsousi representing Bangladesh in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
  
Carolina Aboul Hosn representing Iran in the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
  
Mariam Abusharkh representing United States of America in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
  
Ahmad Kanaan representing Argentina in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
  
  
  

Group photo of the AUK delegation
AUK Delegation Excels at Prestigious International MUN Event
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