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From the ancient Greek assemblies, through the Arabian majlis tradition, and African gatherings beneath the Baobab tree, to the parliaments and assemblies of the modern world, human beings have always gathered the brightest minds to solve complex, global challenges. 

This tradition of convening is a powerful force, and at the Future Investment Initiative Institute we believe that conversation, collaboration, and cooperation are essential to addressing the major issues of our time — from climate change and economic inequality to the transformative potential of AI, and global healthcare access.

That is why, since 2017, we have built a global network of influential thought leaders and decision-makers in business, policymaking, academia, civil society, and media. We convene regularly to discuss issues on a granular level, challenging accepted wisdom and formulating innovative, actionable solutions to global problems.

With 1,350 members, the FII Institute is home to the new global game changers — a movement of visionary leaders, explorers, and innovators. These individuals are catalysts for progress, actively engaging in a year-round agenda and shaping debates that influence our collective future.

This year’s FII conference is more ambitious than ever. While discussions alone may not bring immediate change, they are the foundation upon which actionable ideas are built, leading to transformative, long-term solutions. As the Chinese proverb reminds us, “A single conversation with a wise man is worth 10 years of study.”

This wisdom is at the core of our mission. Joining us this year in Riyadh are global leaders discussing the future of pandemic prevention, exploring the responsible potential of AI, the balance between mineral extraction and environmental sustainability, the vital link between visionary leadership and global progress, and the future of sports. 

Riyadh is becoming the home of these game changers who are individuals and organizations who see beyond the status quo, pushing boundaries to introduce transformative ideas that disrupt conventional thinking. 

In an increasingly interconnected but fractious world, institutions like ours are crucial for tackling humanity's biggest challenges. By promoting knowledge sharing, facilitating collaborative problem-solving, and influencing policy development, we can open up invaluable opportunities for progress.

Historically, global gatherings often serve as a response to crises — whether in the aftermath of wars, financial crashes, or pandemics. At FII, we see it differently. We believe that global summits should anticipate and prevent these crises before they escalate. Prevention, guided by intellectual foresight, is the most effective cure, and through this lens, we can guide humanity toward more thoughtful responses to its greatest challenges. It’s the principle of preventive medicine.

The theme for FII8 is “Infinite Horizons” referencing the boundless potential of human innovation and ambition. It resonates deeply with game changers who are not confined by immediate challenges but are motivated by the promise of what lies ahead — new solutions, new frontiers, and new opportunities for global progress.

The new global game changers are committed to humanity flourishing in these testing times. Join our movement and help us deliver our mission to create lasting impact for all, not just today but for the future to come.

• Richard Attias is CEO of Future Investment Initiative Institute