As 2024 ends and we step into 2025, I am reminded of the power of change and the opportunities it brings for growth. This past year has been a journey filled with challenges, accomplishments, and countless moments of gratitude. It hasn’t been an easy road, but each experience has shaped me, preparing me for the year ahead.
This year marked the second without my father, and his absence continues to be deeply felt. Stepping into new family responsibilities has been both humbling and transformative, reminding me of the importance of resilience and the strength of familial bonds. I am especially grateful for my wife, whose unwavering love and support have been my anchor through every challenge, and my mother, whose presence is a source of comfort and wisdom. Together with my four children, they bring immeasurable joy and purpose to my life, inspiring me every day to be my best self.
2024 was a significant year for my country as well. With milestones such as winning the World Cup 2034 and preparations for Expo 2030, we’ve witnessed inspiring progress in building a vibrant society and empowering the next generation. These accomplishments remind us of our collective responsibility to sustain this momentum for a brighter, more prosperous future.
On the professional front, this year marked nearly seven years in the cybersecurity field, where I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the role of technology in simplifying our lives and the critical need for robust security in an increasingly digital world. The advancements in AI have been transformative, offering immense potential while also posing challenges that demand ethical and thoughtful solutions. My work has centered around ensuring these innovations are harnessed responsibly to create meaningful impact.
This year, I also embraced new professional opportunities that align with my passion for innovation and growth. I’ve had the privilege of contributing to transformative projects across the Middle East and Africa, supporting Vision 2030, and engaging with exceptional teams to drive long-term strategies. In 2025, I’ll embark on a new chapter, leveraging my experience in the software sector to support a rising leader in expanding their footprint across the region. This next step represents an exciting opportunity to further digital transformation in industries like architecture, engineering, and construction—fields that hold incredible potential for optimization and innovation.
Personally, 2024 was a year of milestones and lessons. I worked on prioritizing my health and well-being, embracing new habits, and rediscovering the value of consistency. It was also a year of celebrating family achievements—seeing my nieces get married, my youngest sister finding her path, and my children pursuing their dreams. My two-year-old son Elyas brought daily joy with his curiosity and energy, while my eldest son delved into software engineering and robotics, my daughter Jowana excelled in her pursuits, and my son Eyad’s athleticism showed great promise. At the heart of it all is my wife, whose love and support are the foundation of our family and my source of strength in every moment.
As I look ahead to 2025, I am filled with optimism and purpose. The year ahead offers new challenges, exciting opportunities, and a chance to continue growing both personally and professionally.
To everyone reading this, may 2025 bring you health, happiness, and success in all your endeavors. Here’s to embracing change, pursuing growth, and making the most of every moment. Happy New Year!
Muayad Simbawa 