AUS Alumni CEO Club | American University of Sharjah

A vibrant platform connecting accomplished AUS alumni in leadership roles across industries

With over 30 founding members, the club showcases the exceptional achievements of AUS graduates while fostering meaningful connections that inspire innovation, collaboration and positive societal impact.

Our Vision: Leading together for a better tomorrow

To unite AUS alumni leaders in a powerful network that drives impactful collaboration, giving back to the community and inspiring positive change.

Our Mission: Empowering leaders to create impact

To empower AUS alumni CEOs by fostering connections, sharing knowledge and leading initiatives that benefit society while upholding the values of excellence, leadership and service.

Our Goals

Foster a dynamic and influential network of AUS alumni CEOs through three main pillars: Learning and Knowledge-Sharing | Self-Development and Professional Growth | Networking and Social Gatherings

These gatherings offer opportunities for meaningful engagement with leaders who are at the forefront of innovation and decision-making across industries, where collaboration fosters growth and opens doors to new possibilities.

"Above all, the AUS Alumni CEO Club is about making an impact. It’s a dynamic networking platform where AUS graduates who have entered leadership can learn from each other and work together for the greater benefit of society. Its members have run with the values instilled at AUS—excellence, leadership, service—and successfully applied them in the world of business. Through the club, we will foreground their aspirational example for others to follow, and give them the eye-opening inspiration, practical mentorship, and unassailable optimism they need to become entrepreneurs and leaders."

Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS


 

"The creation of the club reflects Sheikha Bodour's vision of establishing a center for knowledge exchange through fireside chats, interactive sessions and curated activities. We encourage members to participate in stimulating discussions and stay updated on industry trends. The AUS Alumni CEO Club holds the promise of making a substantial contribution to the wider community by fostering collaborative initiatives and sharing expertise, catalyzing positive change and leaving a meaningful impact on society."

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS

Meet the Board Members

The AUS Alumni CEO Club is led by an inspiring group of alumni leaders, representing diverse industries and expertise. Here are the board members:

Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh | CEO of Invest in Sharjah

Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh is the CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office, also known as Invest in Sharjah, the investment promotion office operating under the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). There, Al Musharrkh held the role of MENA’S Regional Director for WAIPA from 2019 to 2021. Prior to joining Shurooq in 2012, Al Musharrkh served for seven years at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), where he held various positions in the International Affairs Department. He serves on the board of the Sharjah Investors Services Center (SAEED) and on the board of trustees at Pantheon-Assas University Paris II. Al Musharrkh holds a master’s degree in international business management from the Australian University of Wollongong in Dubai and a bachelor’s degree in international studies from AUS.

 
Atheeqe Ansari | Founder and CEO of Electric Way

Atheeqe Ansari, a UAE-raised entrepreneur, holds a degree in business administration from AUS and an MBA from the University of Wollongong. He modernized family businesses with a disruptive approach, transforming industries like commodity trading, electrical distribution, water management and e-commerce. Starting as a broker at Emco International, he founded Electric Way in 2002, Hydro Way for sustainable water solutions and Traderz.com, an e-business platform for retailers. He is Executive Vice President of the Global Pulse Confederation, a Dubai Food Trade Advisory Group member, and a board member of the India-Middle East Agri Trade Alliance. A COP 28 panellist, Ansari advocates for food security and circular economy strategies.

 
Abdulla Al Majid | Executive Director at Juma Al Majid Holding Group LLC

Abdulla Al Majid is a dedicated professional and member of the Juma Al Majid Holding Group, managing and growing his family business. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, he combines his expertise in business operations with a passion for social networking. Abdulla is committed to continuing his family’s legacy while staying active and engaged in both professional and personal pursuits.

 
Omnia Halawani | Co–CEO and Founder at GRFN

Omnia Halawani is Co-CEO and Founder of GRFN, a consultancy delivering sustainable engineering and design solutions. Her expertise covers areas such as building performance, energy efficiency, sustainability and corporate responsibility. A recognized thought leader in the industry, she also chairs the AUS Alumni CEO Club's Learning and Events Cluster. Apart from her main realm of business in the AEC industry, Halawani serves on the boards of multiple family businesses in food and beverage as well as entertainment industries.

 
Omar Afana | CEO of Fast Building Contracting

Omar Afana graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from AUS in 2009, after which earned a Master’s in Construction Management from Concordia University and a PhD in Engineering Management from the University of Sharjah. At Fast Building Contracting, he has contributed to major governmental, commercial, residential and specialized projects in Sharjah, strengthening the company’s reputation in the UAE. A founding board member of the AUS Alumni CEO Club, Afana serves as Vice Chair of the Learning and Events Cluster, promoting teamwork, learning and professional development through events and workshops.

 
Talal Helali | CEO of Hilali Group, Vice Chairman of Industrial Group SCOC

Engineer Talal Helali is the CEO of Hilali Industries in Sharjah and Vice Chairman of the Industrial Group at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He previously served as Regional Technical Manager at Wacker Chemie in Munich. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and an MBA from AUS, where he also served as a lecturer. A founding member of the AUS CEO Club, Hilali currently serves as a board member and chairman of the club. He is recognized for his leadership in developing innovative cleaning products, with his brands, Brax and Poopsy, leading in the GCC market. His strategies have contributed to the growth of Hilali Industries while driving cost reductions.

 
Sachin Gadoya | Co-Founder and CEO at Musafir

Sachin Gadoya is the Co-Founder and CEO of Musafir.com, the UAE’s leading travel management company. He drives strategic growth and partnerships, expanding its presence across India, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. A UAE native, Sachin graduated from AUS with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering in 2003. Inspired by Sharjah’s innovation-driven ecosystem, he launched Musafir.com, the UAE’s first online travel agency. He also serves on the board of Cleartrip, Flyin and Gadoya Holdings, a diversified group spanning multiple industries. Actively engaged in Sharjah’s business community, he mentors young entrepreneurs, invests in tech start-ups and fosters growth in key sectors.

 

Are you eligible?

Terms and Conditions for Membership

1. Eligibility: Applicants must hold a C-level or equivalent leadership position, such as CEO, Managing Director, Vice President, or another executive role responsible for strategic decision-making and organizational success.

2. Minimum Organizational Requirements: Applicants should lead organizations with measurable success, such as: i. Number of Employees: Organizations must have a minimum of 30 full-time employees. ii. Annual Revenue by Company Type (in AED): Annual Revenue: Businesses must generate a minimum annual revenue of 15 million AED.

3. Application and Approval: Submission of the form does not guarantee membership. Approval is subject to meeting eligibility criteria and alignment with the club’s objectives.

4. Membership Contributions: Annual fees (if applicable) are non-refundable once paid. Members are expected to actively participate in events and club activities.

5. Event Participation: Members must confirm attendance for events and adhere to event schedules.

6. Confidentiality: Members must respect the confidentiality of shared discussions, business insights, and personal information during events and networking activities.

7. Code of Conduct: Professionalism and respectful behavior are mandatory in all interactions. Violations may result in suspension or termination of membership.

8. Privacy and Data Use: All personal data provided will be used solely for membership purposes and handled in compliance with UAE regulations.

9. Liability: The club is not responsible for business transactions or outcomes arising from member interactions.

10. Updates to Terms: The club reserves the right to amend these terms, with prior notice provided to members.

Our Past Events

Chris Gardner

December 22, 2024 | Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah
The AUS Alumni CEO Club had the privilege of meeting Chris Gardner, renowned author and motivational speaker. Gardner, whose inspiring story was portrayed in The Pursuit of Happyness, shared his incredible journey from homelessness to becoming a successful entrepreneur. His powerful story resonated deeply with attendees, providing valuable lessons in perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. The event was an unforgettable opportunity for alumni to engage with a true icon of success and motivation.

Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2025

February 1–2, 2025 | SRTI Park, Sharjah
The AUS Alumni CEO Club collaborated with Sheraa at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF), hosting a panel and offering exclusive networking opportunities with industry leaders. SEF is a premier event that brings together entrepreneurs, investors and thought leaders to showcase the latest trends, insights and innovations in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. The club’s involvement in this dynamic festival provided alumni with a platform to engage with key industry figures, share their experiences and cultivate valuable connections within the entrepreneurial community.

StartUp Dojo

November 26, 2024 | Sheraa AUS Hub
In collaboration with Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), the AUS Alumni CEO Club participated as judges and provided mentorship at the StartUp Dojo event. The event aimed to empower winning student entrepreneurs by offering guidance and expert insights. Alumni-turned-CEOs played a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of innovators, sharing their experiences and helping to shape the future of entrepreneurship. This initiative provided valuable networking opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs within the AUS community.

An Exclusive Suhoor Gathering

May 20, 2025 | The Majlis, Dubai World Trade Center
An evening of meaningful connections, insightful conversations, and shared blessings came to life as we gathered to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan. Surrounded by fellow leaders and distinguished alumni, the night was filled with warmth, reflection, and a true sense of community. It was a memorable occasion that deepened bonds and honored the values that bring us together during this holy month.

Strengthening Ties: CEO Club x Sheraa

November 04, 2024 | Sheraa HQ
The AUS Alumni CEO Club met with Sheraa to discuss potential avenues for collaboration and continued support for AUS students and alumni. The meeting focused on shared goals to strengthen ties between the university and industry leaders, fostering opportunities that benefit the AUS community.

Become a CEO

October 2024 | AUS Student Center
The AUS Alumni CEO Club hosted an inspiring event on campus titled Become a CEO. The event featured alumni-turned-CEOs who shared their personal journeys, leadership insights and practical advice. Attendees learned about the challenges and successes these accomplished leaders faced on their paths to the top. This gathering provided an invaluable platform for alumni to connect, learn and gain motivation from those who have excelled in the business world. Have a look at the event’s recap video here.

AUS Alumni CEO Club at the AUS Alumni Reunion

January 18, 2025 | AUS Main Plaza

The AUS Alumni CEO Club participated in the prestigious AUS Alumni Reunion, hosting a majlis for exclusive networking and discussions centered around mentorship and professional growth. The reunion brought together over 600 graduates in a star-studded evening, celebrating the past year's achievements under the theme “Pay It Forward: Inspiring Future Generations through Education.” The event highlighted the collective impact of alumni contributions on AUS students, the university and the broader community. The AUS Alumni CEO Club’s majlis provided an intimate space for alumni to connect, share insights and explore opportunities for mentorship within the AUS community.

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