KUWAIT CITY, October 31: Kuwait International Bank (KIB) recently held a special ceremony to celebrate the graduation of its 2023/2024 class from the Waed Talent Program, marking another milestone in the Bank’s efforts to develop and empower the next generation of banking professionals in Kuwait. Held at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, the graduation event was attended by KIB’s Vice Chairman and CEO Raed Jawad Bukhamseen and Deputy CEO Mohamed Said El Saka, alongside the Executive Management. At the ceremony, the Bank’s leaders expressed their pride in the achievements of the graduates, recognizing their dedication and potential to contribute meaningfully to Kuwait’s banking sector.

Commenting on the graduation, Feras Al Darmi, General Manager of Human Resources at KIB, stated: “At KIB, we believe in investing in our people, as they are the foundation of our Bank’s success. The Waed Talent Program is a vital component of our strategy to develop local talent and provide them with the skills needed to lead and innovate in the banking industry. Through Waed, KIB is not only investing in individual growth but also ensuring the Bank’s continued success by building a pipeline of talented and effective leaders ready to meet future challenges and uphold the highest standards of excellence. We are confident that the 2023/20204 graduates will make significant contributions to both KIB and the broader financial sector in Kuwait.”

On her part, Siham AlKhorayef, Manager of Learning and Development at KIB, said: “Over the course of a one-year learning journey, Waed participants engaged in an intensive curriculum that provided them with cutting-edge banking knowledge and insights into industry best practices. The program is designed to provide our participants with a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge that aligns with KIB’s long-term objectives. This holistic training program enhances essential skills and competencies, equipping participants with the tools necessary to excel in their future leadership roles.”

The Waed Talent Program was launched in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2023with the aim of developing Kuwaiti talent at all levels within the Bank, from entry-level employees to senior leadership. Selected Kuwaiti employees from various departments are trained to enhance their skills and prepare for effective leadership roles. This comprehensive approach reflects KIB's ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and fostering positive, sustainable change within the organization.

AlKhorayef emphasized that Waed reflects KIB’s continuous commitment to investing in the future of the Kuwaiti banking industry, further solidifying the Bank’s position as a ‘Bank for Life.’ She stated: “By fostering the growth of local talent, KIB ensures that its workforce is not only equipped to meet the current demands of the financial sector but also capable of playing a significant role in shaping Kuwait’s broader economic vision. Our aim is to build a highly skilled, innovative, and future-ready workforce that contributes positively to the nation’s economic growth and development.”

It serves to note that KIB remains committed to offering continuous development opportunities, fostering a culture that attracts and retains talented professionals in the Kuwaiti banking industry. Through its human capital development arm, KIB Life Academy, the Bank has delivered numerous programs that guarantee the ongoing personal and professional growth of both its employees and local Kuwaiti cadres.